Some will find this place a bit touristy. However, Jan and I love the free admission and the chance to wander the gorgeous grounds. Of course, there are available paid options, ranging from ziplines to tram tours. Whenever we visit, we always have lunch there. In our opinion, there is no other place with such a spectacular view. The food is wonderful. (Like any restaurant in Hawaii, expect to pay 30-40% more than a similar type of restaurant on the Mainland. Frankly, you don’t come to Hawaii to scrimp on the cost of eating. If you do, you will be sorely disappointed. Even McDonald’s is expensive. )
Established in the 1970s, the plantation was designed to showcase Hawaii’s agricultural heritage. The plantation features a variety of fruit trees, flowers, and plants native to Hawaii and serves as an educational center, offering tours and experiences about Hawaiian agriculture. The plantation emphasizes sustainability and conservation practices in its operations.
If you decide to have lunch at the Mill House Restaurant, here are two sample views. One on a clear day, and one when a bit cloudy.
This is the most recent picture. The restaurant serves produce and meats that have not been treated with herbicides and hormones. The chef is “dedicated to sourcing all meat and produce locally as much as possible, and supporting local farmers and businesses.”