Kilohana Plantation | Lihue

Information

Landmark: Kilohana Plantation
City: Lihue
Country: USA Hawaii
Continent: North America

Kilohana Plantation, Lihue, USA Hawaii, North America

Kilohana Plantation is a historic estate located in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii. It encompasses 16,000 acres of agricultural land and includes a restored plantation great house.

Visual Characteristics

The central great house is a 16,000 square foot Georgian-style mansion constructed from concrete and stucco. It features a red tile roof, white trim, and expansive lanais. The grounds include manicured gardens, fruit orchards, and agricultural fields.

Location & Access Logistics

Kilohana Plantation is situated at 3271 Koa Road, Lihue, HI 96766. It is approximately 3 miles east of Lihue Airport (LIH) and 4 miles from the Lihue town center. Access is via State Highway 50 (Kaumualii Highway) to Koa Road. Ample paved parking is available on-site. Public transport options are limited; the Kauai Bus Route 60 stops near the entrance on Koa Road.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The plantation was established in 1935 by Gaylord H. Wilcox, heir to the Gay & Robinson sugar plantation. The great house was built as his residence. The land was historically used for sugar cane cultivation and now also features fruit orchards and taro fields. It represents a significant example of early 20th-century plantation architecture and land use in Hawaii.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include guided tours of the plantation great house, which showcase antique furnishings and historical artifacts. Visitors can take a 2-hour narrated train tour through the plantation's agricultural lands, observing fruit orchards, taro patches, and livestock. Opportunities exist for sampling local fruits and spirits at the distillery. The plantation also hosts a luau in the evenings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the great house and near the train depot. Shaded areas are provided by the great house lanais and mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. On-site food and beverage services are provided, including a restaurant and bar within the great house, and vendors during the luau.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the great house and grounds, early morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) offers optimal lighting. The plantation is open year-round. The train tour operates daily, with departures scheduled throughout the day. The luau is a nightly event.

Facts & Legends

The great house was designed by architect John W. Gregg. A unique feature is the collection of antique furniture and art, much of which belonged to the Wilcox family. The plantation is also known for its Koloa Rum Company tasting room, offering samples of locally produced rum.