Grove Farm Homestead & Sugar Plantation Museum, Kauai
Grove Farm Homestead Museum is a preserved 100-acre sugar plantation in Lihue, Kauai, showcasing the lifestyle and legacy of the Wilcox family. It features the oldest collection of plantation-era buildings, furniture, and gardens in Hawaii. Visitors can experience guided tours of the main home, guest cottage, washhouse, and teahouse, offering a unique glimpse into Kauai's agricultural past and sugarcane history.
This 100-acre sugar plantation has the oldest surviving set of plantation buildings, furnishings and orchards in Hawaii. In 1864, during the American Civil War, George N. Wilcox leased the struggling farm and built a home for himself and his nieces. As the war continued to rage between the North and the South, agriculture in the southern United States was destroyed. This made sugarcane farming a prosperous venture in Hawaii.
Wilcox transformed his arid land from a struggling farm to a successful sugar plantation. In 1978 the home became a museum that highlights the family's life and rise to fortune. Lovingly cared for over the years, the main house remains in pristine condition. The land is still a working farm, complete with animals, that transports you back in time. The Wilcox family, and life as it was, come alive through the guides’ stories. The grounds also include a washhouse, teahouse and guest cottage.
The two-hour-long guided tours move at a relaxed pace through the buildings, gardens and grounds. The guides are all local Kauai residents who are familiar with life on the island.
Key Features of Grove Farm Homestead Museum
- Historic sugar plantation: 100-acre preserved estate with original 19th-century structures
- Wilcox family heritage: Home of George N. Wilcox, an influential sugar pioneer
- Authentic buildings: Includes the main house, washhouse, teahouse, and guest cottage
- Guided tours: Two-hour tours led by knowledgeable local docents
- Living farm setting: Features working farm elements and period-appropriate gardens and orchards
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for the tour?
Yes, tours are by appointment only and typically offered on select weekdays. It's best to call or check their website in advance.
How long is the tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately two hours and includes the house, gardens, and surrounding structures.
Where is the museum located?
Grove Farm Homestead Museum is located at 4050 Nawiliwili Road, Lihue, HI 96766.
Who leads the tours?
Tours are conducted by local Kauai residents who are knowledgeable about the plantation's history and Wilcox family legacy.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Photography is generally allowed outdoors, but restrictions may apply inside the historic buildings - check with your guide.