Mention Kualoa, and most people think of horseback riding, ziplining, biking, ATV adventures and movie-site tours. But as more clients seek out gastronomic activities in their destination of choice, the windward Oahu property has been spotlighting its food products, as well.
Kualoa now offers two excursions — Taste of Kualoa Farm Tour and Kualoa Culinary Experience Tour — that tout its culinary offerings. Given its deep roots in ranching, agriculture and aquaculture, it makes sense that the 4,000-acre spread would target the fast-rising food tourism market.
During a food tour, Kualoa guests see a variety of exotic crops like cacao.
Credit: 2019 Kualoa
“Our goal is to create memorable experiences that really bring Kualoa to life for our visitors, leaving them wanting to return,” said Wendy AhSam, guest relations manager for Kualoa, which traces its beginnings to 1850. “What better way to do that than by giving them a taste of what was produced right here on our property?”
Presenting an appetizing blend of entertainment and education, Kualoa’s tours appeal to both foodies and clients seeking something new and different, AhSam adds.
The 90-minute Taste of Kualoa is so popular that it averages 300 guests per day, according to AhSam. Riding in an open-air trolley, clients learn about the ingenious way that early islanders practiced aquaculture, and they see Molii Fishpond, one of Oahu’s best-preserved fishponds, which dates as far back as 1,000 years ago and is now a source of oysters. Additionally, the company raises shrimp and tilapia in smaller, earthen ponds.
On the Kualoa Culinary Experience Tour, groups learn about property's vast ranching operations.
Credit: 2019 KualoaTaste of Kualoa tourgoers also view tropical gardens loaded with riches such as papayas, pineapples and bananas. They sip lilikoi-infused water; sample seasonal fruits, poi, dried fish and breadfruit chips; and crack macadamia nuts.
Meanwhile, the two-hour Kualoa Culinary Experience expands on the above with more stops, time to talk with the property’s farmers and a look at Kualoa’s cattle-, hog- and sheep-ranching operation. The trip wraps up with a farm-to-table, four-course meal showcasing home-grown ingredients.
This fall, the attraction will start promoting Kualoa Culinary Experience to special event planners and corporate groups of up to 24 guests. At press time, AhSam wasn’t sure if it will continue as a regularly scheduled tour for leisure travelers.
Aunty Pat's Cafe showcases Kualoa-grown products in such dishes as garlic shrimp.
Credit: 2019 KualoaWhether or not clients book one of Kualoa’s food outings, they can still enjoy its mouthwatering harvest at Aunty Pat’s Cafe in the visitor center. Aunty Pat’s serves area-inspired dishes such as a grass-fed beef burger, garlic shrimp plates and oysters on the half shell.
Clients also can buy Kualoa’s yummy products in the retail shop. Due to limited quantities and strong demand, AhSam suggests travelers call ahead to place an order (808-748-3209) or order online to make sure they get what they crave.
Ultimately, Kualoa wants to keep expanding its enterprises while staying true to its historical role as a good steward of the environment.
“We are excited about the future and will continue to pursue other diversified agriculture and tour opportunities,” AhSam said. “Our mission is to enrich people’s lives by preserving our land and celebrating its history.”
The Details
Kualoa
www.kualoa.com
