Hawaiian Pineapples are the absolute best! I am convinced that I have never tasted a pineapple that is more delightful than those which are grown in Hawaii. I decided to embark on this tour because I wanted to learn more about how pineapples are processed. This tour cost $268.00 for an adult and child includes roundtrip transportation, and a pineapple for each participant to take home. The tour begins around 9:00am with hotel pickup and lasts up until 4:00pm so be prepared for a long day but one that you will find both enjoyable and exciting. You will receive historical knowledge from the guide, visit the Pineapple Farm & Factory (an exclusive tour only offered by this company), stop at Green World Coffee Farm (best Coffee ever), have lunch at Banyan’s Island Grill, visit The Soap Factory, visit a place (forgot the name)to purchase delicious Cashew Nut (Honey Roasted the best), and maybe see some turtles if they are hanging out. However, the highlight of the trip is visiting the Pineapple Farm. I had no idea about the process involved with planting and harvesting pineapples even with modern day equipment. I can only imagine what the challenges were of the many people who worked tirelessly processing the pineapples before modern day equipment became available. However, for those that are employed within the fields the job still appears to be difficult. However, I definitely enjoyed having an opportunity to be educated about a process in which my knowledge was vastly limited. I must admit that the fields in which the pineapples grow are breathtakingly beautiful. I discovered that one reason why the pineapples from Hawaii are so delicious is due to the iron rich soil in which they grow. The soil is beautiful to see because one could never witness that site in Southeast Louisiana. I must admit the fields make for some breathtaking photos for any photographer. Our guide explained the long process from planting to harvesting to us; however, one of the most memorable moments was tasting the fresh pineapple. It was sooo delicious! I enjoy the field visit the most because the beauty of nature was simply second to none. Once we arrived at the plant we were able to observe how the pineapples are washed and packaged. We also received our grand prize….A pineapple to take home. Make a note to yourself that tasting a Hawaiian pineapple is bucket list worthy. Finally, before departing the pineapple factory I had the pleasure of meeting a wonderful woman who shared her journey as an employee for Dole.
She explained that she has worked as an 18 wheeler driver for 15 years. I was really surprised because I have never met a female 18 wheeler driver in real time. I enjoyed the way she took time to share her joy, spirit of Aloha with me, and her positive experience as an employee for Dole. I truly enjoyed this tour and would recommend it to anyone who desires to know more about pineapples and would like an opportunity to visit the North Shore.