Make your own way to Kualoa Ranch, located on the scenic northern coast of Oahu. Meet your guide to start your leisurely walk through groves of fragrant fruit trees. Feel free to pick ripe fruit to sample as you stroll. Then take in gardens full of tropical flowers including exotic gingers, heliconias and ti plants. Your guide identifies the plants and flowers you come across and explains their characteristics.
Afterward, head over to the 125-acre (50-hectare) Moli’i Fishpond, built by hand more than 800 years ago to ensure a steady supply of fish for the villages of the area.
Set out on the pond in a double-hulled, flat-bottom vessel whose design was inspired by Hawaii’s Hokulea voyaging canoe. Hear about ancient Polynesian sailing traditions as you glide around the pond in the stable boat.
During your tour, your guide shares fascinating facts about ancient Hawaiian aquaculture and agricultural practices. Hear about Captain Cook’s arrival on the islands in 1778 and the new economic and cultural influences introduced by his crew.
As you drift along in this tropical paradise, enjoy breathtaking views of lush jungle and rugged cliffs typical of volcanic islands like Oahu.
You may recognize the landscape from Hollywood; movies filmed here include Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates and Pearl Harbor along with hit television shows such as Lost and Hawaii 5-0. Some locals refer to this popular filming location as ‘the backlot of Hawaii.’
At the end of your 1-hour tour, your guide returns you to the starting point.