Whether you have been to Maui or not, you are probably familiar with one of Maui’s most famous exports – the pineapple. Maui’s pineapple cultivation has a fascinating history that has profoundly impacted the island’s culture and economics. The team at Parrish Maui is here to provide you with insights on the famous Maui pineapple; here is a look at the history of the pineapple on Maui and how you can explore it on your vacation.
The History of Pineapple on Maui
No one can say with certainty when the pineapple made its way to Maui, but it is generally agreed that this fruit was there by the 1820s. However, Maui’s love affair with pineapples began in earnest in the late 19th century when David and Henry Baldwin purchased land above Honolua Bay, which soon became the home of the island’s first pineapple farm. By 1909, the Baldwins formed the Maui Pineapple Company, and it was not long before other farmers and entrepreneurs followed suit and started their own pineapple companies. Most famously, Dole had a large presence in Hawaii.
The island’s most popular pineapple crop is known as “Maui Gold,” which is famous for its delicious sweetness. The Maui Gold pineapple remains a worldwide favorite to this day; chances are, you have sampled a Maui Gold pineapple without knowing it.
By the 1930s, Hawaii was the world’s number-one producer of pineapples. Maui was the second leading producer in the Hawaiian Islands. However, by the 1980s, the pineapple industry in Hawaii was a shell of its former self, with the state’s top pineapple producers moving operations to other locations due to cheaper labor. By 2009, Maui Land and Pineapple Company, the last large pineapple exporter in Hawaii, shut down production.
Maui Pineapple Tours
To truly immerse yourself in the pineapple legacy of Maui, there is no better way than to embark on the Maui Pineapple Tour. This guided tour takes you to a working pineapple farm in Haliimaile, where you’ll witness the entire lifecycle of this tropical delight – from planting to harvest. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the cultivation process, the history of the industry, and the significance of pineapples in Maui’s culture. After your tour, every guest will receive a free Maui Gold pineapple, which is packaged and approved for airports, if you wish to bring it back home as a memory of your trip.
Sweet Accommodations on Maui with a Pineapple Surprise
Today, the Maui Land and Pineapple Company operates the Kapalua Resort community, which is where we offer our vacation rentals. Our villas at Kapalua Resort combine fabulous resort-style amenities with privacy and self-efficient in-unit features such as fully equipped kitchens. Our vacation rentals in Kapalua are sure to make your stay extra sweet. You can book one of our Maui vacation rentals online or by calling 877-854-9070.