Kualoa Ranch is one of the most recognizable locations in Film. From Jurassic Park to Godzilla to Skull Island, this unique and beautiful place has been featured in countless productions. There are several opportunities available to visitors interested in experiencing everything Kualoa has to offer.
“Do not miss Kualoa!” -Claudia F, Tripadvisor
History
Kualoa Ranch has been in the Judd-Morgan family for several generations. They see themselves as stewards of the land. The ranch was a place of refuge and sold to Dr. Gerritt P. Judd by King Kamehameha III in 1850.
Film Tours
This 4000-acre nature reserve on Oahu is also a working cattle ranch. They offer film tours based on the movies that were shot on location and visitors can thrill to the beautiful vistas used in various films since the 1950s. Recognizing the places from different films is part of the adventure at Kualoa.
Farm to Table
Foodies will not be disappointed with the options available at Kualoa Ranch. A farm-to-table tasting tour of the property includes a visit to the shrimp and tilapia ponds on the property. Visitors can taste the beef, tropical fruit, and seafood harvested at the ranch. They can also learn how the ancient Hawaiians caught fish using their ‘throw net’ technique. The tour finishes off with a delicious tropical fruit smoothie made from the ranch’s fresh produce.
Horseback Riding
Equestrians are also offered the opportunity to view the ranch on horseback. The walking guided tour includes stops at various filming locations and beautiful views of the valleys on Oahu. A Keiki (children’s) Ride is available for those too young for the regular tour. Guides lead children on horses for five minutes to give them an experience of riding at the ranch.
Beach Tours
For visitors interested in the sea, there is a Secret Island Beach tour available. After crossing the ancient fishpond at the ranch, visitors arrive at a gorgeous unspoiled beach to while the afternoon away in the warm Hawaiian sun. There are various watersports available on the beach or visitors can simply relax on the white sand or in a hammock swaying beneath the palm trees.
Catamaran Tours
The Ocean Voyage Catamaran tour is available from the Secret Island. Visitors can view the famous Mokoli’i Island (Chinaman’s Hat) and Hokule’a Beach. They may also see breaching whales or turtles feeding while on the water. This tour is accompanied by historical narration and gorgeous views of the mountains.
For those who love sailing but prefer calmer waters, there is an Ancient Hawaiian Fishpond and Tropical Garden tour available. Visitors will have the chance to experience the Kualoa Ranch Moli’i (fishpond) and learn about Hawaiian aquaculture practices. This fishpond is carbon-dated between 800 and 1000 years old. Guests will also be able to sample some of the tropical fruit along the way during the tour depending upon the season.
Adventure Tours
The ranch also offers various adventure options. There is a Treetop Canopy zip line tour for those who love the speed and drama of soaring above the ground while taking in the gorgeous scenery. For those who prefer to stay closer to the earth, they also offer single and multi-passenger ATV tours of movie locations and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Grass-Fed Beef
Kualoa Ranch is home to 100 percent Hawaiian grass-fed beef. This means a very high quality of life for the cattle and a much tastier meal when it arrives at the table. The cattle are also free-ranging and are free from additives. Kualoa Ranch does not ship, so all beef must be picked up on location. All beef is processed on the island of Oahu, and deliveries to the ranch occur twice per month.
Weddings
Weddings are also possible at Kualoa Ranch. It is an extremely versatile location and offers anything the heart could wish for. Whether it is a country wedding, exchanging vows on the beach, or a simple, quiet affair in a tropical garden, Kualoa has it all. There are also catering options available from the ranch itself, including its 100 percent grass fed beef, tropical fruit, and other produce. Kualoa Ranch is one of the most eco-friendly options for people interested in an environmentally-sound wedding venue.
All in all, Kualoa Ranch offers a wide array of adventures, activities, and experiences to make any Hawaiian vacation a memorable one. It offers tours and sites of interest to suit any taste or interest and includes the excitement of a Hollywood set combined with the grandeur of Hawaii. Visiting Kualoa Ranch is a wonderful opportunity to take home unique memories when visiting Oahu’s Windward coast.
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