Kauai is an amazing vacation destination with countless things to do and see while on the island. From relaxing on the pristine beaches to exploring the local hiking trails, there is something for everyone. One of our favorite things to do while in Kauai is visiting the Kilohana Plantation while staying in one of our Kauai vacation rentals.
No trip to the gorgeous island of Kauai truly would be complete without paying a visit to this breathtaking place. Here’s what you can expect when you visit!
Ride the Plantation Train
Have Kauai plantation tours crossed your mind? It’s a great activity and easy for families with lots of great things to do, like riding the plantation train. This is a great way to start the magical vacation and have loads of fun seeing the area with 105 acres of land to look at. All sorts of locally grown produce, vegetation, wildlife, and more await you, so it should be fun to ride around and spot what your eyes can catch a glimpse of.
Take a Rum Safari
Why not start with some rum? A rum safari here will really show you all the best orchards in the land. Koloa Rum and Mai Tea are offered to whoever wishes to take a sip (or even a little more than that, if you’re craving a good refreshment). Notice all the fruits and herbs that grow about, not to mention some of the farm animals that pass you by, and it will be something you remember for months afterward — the tranquility and the overall laid-back vibes. You get to see the whole lay of the land as you sit in comfort with your loved ones next to you. What could be better than that?
See The Luau Kalamaku
This is a luau like few other luaus, and the thing that is so special about it is this (among so many other facts): It is a serious event for the vacationer at heart (preferably someone who is a bit of a history buff and likes to learn a thing or two). This luau is entirely historical and will give you a glimpse of that right away as you join the event. It pays much homage to the people who came before and showed much heart in the area. If you want to learn more about the history of this gorgeous island and its incredible people, this luau is something you don’t want to miss.
Attend a Tasting at Koloa Rum
Of course, what could be better to top off a long day or afternoon with than some freshly made rum right there on the island? That is an event you can’t miss, and it is perhaps done BEST at the end of the day to cool yourself off. Try the different kinds of rums they offer for tasting, and as always, make sure to drink responsibly and have your designated driver ready for when it’s time to go back.
Dining Options at Kilohana
Wondering where you can grab a bite to eat? A good meal is a must for any great vacation, and you’ll want to get your fill before heading back to your 2-bedroom rental to relax for a bit.
Plantation House
The Plantation House by Gaylords is perhaps one of the most delectable stops you can make while on this wild trip at the end of the day. They have some of the best cocktails you have ever tried in your entire life. All the cocktails on the menu are priced at $12 a unit. If you want something simpler, like a beer, it will only cost around $6 – $7 plus a bit of tax (make sure to factor in an extra dollar or two, and for tips as well. They serve lunch and dinner here —- the wrapped Shrimp Phyllo is one of the best you can ever have in Kauai.
Mahiko Lounge
This is the hippest and newest bar in the area, and yes, they serve plenty of actual food as well; you can get started with the Happy Hour Shrimp Chips for just $5, and they are exactly what they sound like, in case you were wondering. How many other places do you know, whether in the U.S. or not, that serve you fresh, made-in-house shrimp chips (or any types of shrimp chips at all, for that matter)? You can also get some pork rinds for the same cost; keep in mind that, to get that $5 Happy Hour special pricing, you need to be there from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. That’s when you really save.
For that same $5, to add even further, you can also get a plain bowl of chips and salsa (just a little something to snack on and kill the hunger as you wait for the additional appetizers to arrive, which are promised not to disappoint). So, make room in your tummy for the good stuff, as well as for a bit of Steamed Gyoza for only $7. This place does not serve actual full meals for food, but people have said they’ve walked out more than satisfied with having nibbled on plenty of mixed Happy Hour appetizers from the menu. All that is real food, anyways!
Kilohana’s Shopping
To bring out the true shopper in you, you have to spend some time here at the many shops, where you can get everything from a baby beanie bag to an oversized hat for sunbathing protection over your head. The shops have them; you have multiple known retailers like Canefield Clothing, Clayworks, and more. The Kauai Sweet Shoppe is a favorite of non-locals alike, as it offers some of the most delicious, mouthwatering island treats made right there. And the business also claims that its treats are unique, not found elsewhere on the island, so give them a shot when you can.
They specialize in caramels, so you can call them a ‘caramel shop’ as many do. Whether sweet, fruity, salted, or even mixed, they have got multiple caramels there, all ready to surprise your taste palates and bring them back craving for more. They are only open from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Mondays through Saturdays only), so make sure to get in there when they are serving. It is well worth it, and your sweet tooth cravings will be satisfied!
Plan Your Next Stay
No matter what you’re looking for in your ultimate Kauai condo rental, we can deliver it and so much more. Ask our team how you can learn more and get booked right away!
Kauai Condo Rentals
So, where is the best place to stay on the island?? The best place to find Kauai rentals would be none other than Kauai Calls. We’ve got resort-style rentals that are off the charts in terms of comfort. That tells you that we’re some of the best in terms of family vacation condos.
