History of the Gaylords Luau
Sugar played an important part in Kauai's history and culture. For over a century, the Wilcox family, Grove Farm and Kilohana were at the heart of plantation life. This is no re-creation; Kilohana is an actual historic site.

This is where Gaylord Parke Wilcox lived while he ran his family's plantation. The lavish dinner parties thrown by Gaylord and Ethel were the talk of the islands (a night with only 20 guests was considered a small affair). Now it's your turn to enjoy it.

Kilohana Estate is a 16,000 square foot Tudor-style mansion situated on 35 acres. At its peak, Grove Farm Plantation had over 22,000 acres of sugar cane planted. It was irrigated by miles of ditches dug through soil and volcanic rock by Hawaiian and Chinese workers. (Don't worry, as our guests you won't have to lift a finger.)

While Mr. Wilcox's plantation no longer grows sugar cane, his family's legendary hospitality remains.

Don't be shy; feel free to wander around the grounds. Hop aboard the Plantation Train and let the driver take you on a plantation tour and tell you tales of its rich history. Perhaps you'd like to take a hula lesson on the back lawn. If you can't carry a tune, you can always learn how leis are made or check out local tropical fruits and crafts.