Photo By: Kristina H.
Tucked away on the north side of Oahu, this small, family-owned macadamia nut farm is certainly off the beaten path for most visitors to Hawaii. However, with its free samples, entertaining tours, and wonderful people, you will find that it is well worth a visit!
When you arrive at the farm, stop by the gift shop, where your group will be welcomed to sample a wide variety of macadamias – sweet, savory, and even spicy flavors! You can even go out back and crack a few nuts for yourself. Top it off with a free sample of Hawaiian Kona coffee, then get ready for your exciting Ali’i tour. (There will be time to shop later!)
As soon as you climb onto the green bus and meet your guide, the Samoan fire-dancer and comedian Chief Sielu Avea, you will know you are in for an entertaining ride! As you rumble through fields and groves, the Chief will keep you laughing the whole way as he points out the farm’s many exotic plants and what they are used for. Stopping at a small amphitheater, Chief Sielu and his friends give you an amusing and educational performance on life in ancient Polynesia, including demonstrations of coconut cracking, fire starting, and a thrilling fire dance. Then it’s time for a boat ride across the ancient fishpond. The breathtaking scenery of this area has made it a popular setting for numerous movies and TV shows, including Jurassic Park, Godzilla, Fantasy Island, Hawaii 5-0, Lost, Gilligan’s Island, and Windtalkers. As you cruise along, you will pass Secret Island, learn about the area’s history, and stop at the Hukilau Cafe, featured in the movie 50 First Dates. Once you are back on dry land, a leisurely bus ride will take you back to where you started, stopping along the way for fresh tropical fruits straight off the tree! End your day with a visit to the gift shop, where you can stock up on macadamias and coffee, as well as Hawaiian jewelry, art prints and lotions.
While it is easy to drive right past Tropical Farms, those who drop by are in for a memorable day of food, fun, and authentic Hawaiian aloha.
