Maui Tropical Plantation

The Basics

Visitors have several ways of exploring the plantation grounds. Take a tram ride around the beautiful grounds to learn about the island’s agricultural past and Hawaii’s native plants and tropical fruits, watch a live coconut-husking demonstration, zipline above the plantation, or shop for seasonal organic produce, including tasty tropical fruit, macadamia nuts, and other made-in-Maui products. Admission to the park is free, although each attraction or experience has its own fee, allowing travelers to customize their visit. The plantation tour is included on the Maui Value Pass, along with entry to the Atlantis Maui Submarine Adventure, Maui Ocean Center, and Bailey House Museum.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Maui Tropical Plantation is a must-see for families.

• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

• Much of the plantation is wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Maui Tropical Plantation is situated in Central Maui in the town of Waikapu, about 30 minutes from Wailea and 40 minutes from Lahaina by road. The easiest way to get there is to drive.

When to Get There

Maui Tropical Plantation is open daily. The summer season (July to September) sees the least rainfall in Maui, making it a good time to experience the plantation’s outdoor attractions. Be sure to book ahead if a cruise ship is in port—the plantation is a popular excursion.

Dining at the Maui Tropical Plantation

Come hungry, because the plantation grounds offer several culinary experiences. Sip a small-batch Hawaiian coffee at the Mill House Roasting Co., tuck into a multicourse meal at Maui Chef’s Table, dine on farm-to-table fare by a quiet lagoon at The Mill House, or satisfy a craving for something sweet at The Scoop, known for its ice creams and smoothies, all freshly made with plantation-grown ingredients.

What do you do at the Maui Tropical Plantation?

The plantation offers many activities that allow you to delve into life on a working farm. You can tour through fields of tropical fruits, zipline across towering canopies, join a sightseeing trip on a tram through the fields, or simply try fresh produce.

How many acres is Maui Tropical Plantation?

This historic plantation covers around 800 acres (324 hectares) of productive land across the lush Maui. With at least 60 acres (24 hectares) open for exploring on various tours and activities, there is plenty of space to admire the agricultural industry and farmers who work the land of Maui Tropical Plantation.

When is the best time of day to visit Maui Tropical Plantation?

Most of the plantation's activities are not offered on Mondays. Otherwise, any other weekday would be an ideal time to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy the serenity of the farm. If you want to join the tours and tram rides, they only run from 10am until 4pm.

Is the Maui Tropical Plantation accessible?

Yes, the Maui Tropical Plantation is accessible to those in wheelchairs and with disabilities. Their famous tram tours around the farm showcasing sustainable farming practices and fascinating historical insights are both wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly.

Can you walk around Maui Tropical Plantation?

Yes, you can walk around parts of the plantation, admiring the crops and plants along the way. However, to better understand the farming practices and how they manage the property, it's best to join one of their available tours.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Maui Tropical Plantation?

While it's not a requirement, booking your visit in advance is recommended. Booking your tour or experience ahead guarantees a seamless experience, allowing you to avoid the disappointment of missing out on your desired tour and time. This is especially important on weekends when it gets much busier.

Ways to explore

Take a 40-minute tram ride around the Maui Tropical Plantation to learn about the island’s agricultural past and Hawaii’s native plants and tropical fruits, and watch a live coconut-husking demonstration. Afterward, you’ll have unlimited time to linger on the farm, shop for seasonal organic produce and other farm products, and browse the artisan boutique and vintage shop. Adventurous kids and adults can also book the ziplining experiences on the farm. The plantation is often a stop on self-guided audio tours of Maui, Polaris Slingshot (3-wheeled motorcycle) excursions, and guided driving tours.

Accessibility

The Maui Tropical Plantation guided tour by tram is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

There is no minimum age, and tickets are discounted for kids 12 and under.

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, sun hat

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen

Not allowed

Accessing some areas of the farm, unless taking the tram tour.

Amenities

Restrooms, restaurants, shops

Address

Maui Tropical Plantation is situated in Central Maui in the town of Waikapu, about 30 minutes from Wailea and 40 minutes from Lahaina if taking a car or bus. The closest town by driving distance is Kahalui.

Driving

From Kahalui, take state highway 32 to state highway 30 and turn left. Continue for about 2.6 miles (4 kilometers) until you see the entrance to the farm on your right. There is ample free parking.

Public transportation

Take bus number 29 from the main Kahalui bus terminal to the Waikapu (to Lahaina) stop. From there, walk about 10 minutes to the Maui Tropical Plantation entrance.

Best times to visit

The first morning tours are the quietest, especially when a cruise ship is in port on Maui. Tram tours typically depart hourly from 9am to 3pm.

Best days to visit

Maui Tropical Plantation is open Tuesday through Sunday. Be sure to book ahead if a cruise ship is in port—the plantation is a popular ship excursion.

Best months to visit

The summer season (July to September) sees the least rainfall in Maui, making it a good time to experience the plantation’s outdoor attractions.

Special events

The farm does not hold special events, but it is a popular Maui venue for weddings and other private celebrations.