4 Epic Train Rides In Hawaii For That Wonderful Scenic Experience You Need
From breathtaking ocean views to majestic mountain landscapes, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some incredible scenic vistas. While we love all of the incredible scenic drives you’ll find across the Aloha State, sometimes you want to experience something a little different. And that’s exactly what these four Hawaii train rides have to offer: scenic views, history lessons, and plenty of fun. All aboard!
1. Hawaiian Railway Society, Oahu
Hawaiian Railway Society, 91-1001 Renton Rd, Ewa Beach, HI 96706, USA
Dedicated to saving, restoring, and protecting Hawaii’s railway history, the Hawaiian Railway Society is not only the only historic railroad on the island but the only operating railroad museum in the state as well. The Hawaiian railroad is on both the State and National Registers of Historic Sites and is a stunning slice of history many people have never visited.
This narrow gauge heritage railway operates three restored diesel locomotives to operate on approximately 6.5 miles of restored train tracks from Ewa to Nanakuli. The restored portion of the track is part of a 12-mile remnant of track that ran from the city, Honolulu, to the country, Kahuku, and was once used for passenger and freight service between 1888 and 1947.
This train in Hawaii is about 90 minutes long round trip and rides are offered on Saturdays at 3 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The 3 p.m. rides both stop at Two Scoops in Kapolei, where riders can purchase ice cream to enjoy on the return trip. Oh, and did we mention the magnificent ocean views, as well?
2. Kauai Plantation Railway, Kauai
Kauai Plantation Railway, Depot, 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
The Kauai Plantation Railway is unique in that it is the first new railroad to be built on Kauai in nearly 100 years. More than 2.5 miles of railway have been constructed using more than 6,000 wood ties and tens of thousands of pounds of iron rail to create this railroad reminiscent of those you would find across Hawaii more than a century ago. Located on the Kilohana Plantation, passengers will be rewarded with magnificent views around every corner — from an unusual mix of tropical plants and trees to friendly farm animals.
This train ride in Hawaii is unlike any other you’ll find in America. Your tour begins in an authentic Hawaiian railway depot where you can explore a unique train depot stop before hearing the whistle of the approaching train, heading to the platform and climbing aboard either a reproduction of the railway cars used during the reign of King Kalakaua or an open-sided excursion car used on Oahu before World War II. You really can’t go wrong with either option. The premier tour features a ride aboard the train, a hike through the rainforest, and a picnic lunch followed by the sampling of fresh tropical fruits directly from the tree. Can you imagine a more perfect afternoon in paradise? We sure can’t! To learn more about this unforgettable train ride, visit the Kauai Plantation Railway's website.
3. Lahaina Sugar Cane Train, Maui
Sugar Cane Train Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad), 17 Kaka'alaneo Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
Editor's Note: As of September 2022, The Lahaina Sugar Cane Train is closed, but does plan to reopen. Visit their website for more information.
This small tourist railroad has been in operation since 1969 when it was started as the Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad, and operates over six miles of narrow-gauge track connecting Lahaina to Puukolii. Although the sugarcane fields are gone, the train continues to transport visitors along a scenic journey from the "Maui of yesteryear to the beauty and charm of Maui today." Since 1970, more than five million tourists visiting Maui have ridden this historic train in Hawaii, making it one of the most popular attractions in West Maui.
Visit soon to experience the magic of the Sugar Cane Train’s Holiday Express ride, a magical polar express train ride that — instead of taking you on a journey to the North Pole — will hope to fill you with holiday cheer in a location that otherwise doesn’t feel very Christmas-y. The train is decked out in Christmas decor, and passengers will not only be served milk and cookies but will also have the opportunity to meet Santa.
4. Pineapple Express, Oahu
Pineapple Express, 670 California Ave, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA
All aboard for a fully-narrated, twenty-minute, and two-mile journey through the famous Dole Plantation on this fun-fill train in Hawaii. Hop on one of the plantation's three trains for an experience you won’t forget: the Pineapple Express is the plantation’s most iconic train, but the Aloha Express and Lady Liberty are both pretty awesome in their own right.
These train rides are as scenic as it is educational and serve as a welcome respite from walking around the plantation. Passengers will "learn the story of pineapple in Hawai‘i, hear how James Drummond Dole founded his world-famous agricultural empire where Dole Plantation stands today, and travel through the stunning scenery of the island’s famous North Shore," according to the Dole Plantation Website.
James Dole, who purchased the 61-acre land parcel in 1900, was the first person to truly understand the pineapple’s potential and became known across the United States as the Pineapple King, and Hawaii was famous for being the pineapple capital of the world. The Dole Plantation sits just north of the small town of Wahiawa, in central Oahu, and now serves as a major tourist destination.
Entry to the iconic Dole Plantation is free, though you’ll have to pay for each of the main attractions separately. A train ride through this historic plantation will cost between $7 to $11 per person, and children under four are free. Learn more here.
Have you experienced any of these 4 incredible train rides for yourself? Share your comments and experiences in the comments below. For even more incredible trips you can take, check out our previous article where we highlight some of our favorite day trips in Hawaii.
Address: Sugar Cane Train Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad), 17 Kaka'alaneo Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
Address: Hawaiian Railway Society, 91-1001 Renton Rd, Ewa Beach, HI 96706, USA
Address: Pineapple Express, 670 California Ave, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA
Address: Kauai Plantation Railway, Depot, 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Day Trips in Hawaii
September 07, 2022
Jackie Ann
What are the best day trips in Hawaii?
It all depends on what month you’re planning to visit! Some of the best day trips in Hawaii are more popular in certain months. For example, every year from December through April, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to give birth, and February is one of the best months to go whale watching in Hawaii, a truly unique experience. In July, you can journey underwater and go snorkeling in Hawaii and see the beautiful sea life of Oahu. In October, a road trip down Maui’s famous Hana Highway is filled with mesmerizing sights including waterfalls, ocean views, and more.
What are the coolest attractions in Hawaii?
There are too many to count! When it comes to waterfalls, you’ve got plenty to choose from. Did you know that the eight main islands of Hawaii are home to nearly 100 waterfalls? Some of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii are the coolest attractions to see, including Manoa Falls, Opaekaa Falls, and countless others. Of course, the Halona Blowhole in Oahu is a must-see, as it’s one of the most popular rock formations of its kind.
Which state parks should I visit in Hawaii?
There are 50 state parks in Hawaii, and each one is worthy of a visit. Whether you visit the more popular state parks like Waiʻānapanapa State Park or Kona Coast State Park or you decide to venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known state parks in Hawaii like the Kalopa State Recreation Area, Ke’eia State Park, or the extremely remote Waimea Canyon State Park, you’ll be mesmerized by each and every one.
Address: Sugar Cane Train Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad), 17 Kaka'alaneo Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
Address: Hawaiian Railway Society, 91-1001 Renton Rd, Ewa Beach, HI 96706, USA
Address: Pineapple Express, 670 California Ave, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA
Address: Kauai Plantation Railway, Depot, 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, USA
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With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
