An 'ohana, a plantation, a tour—3 years in the making

The Atkins Family at Kilohana

The Atkins family has been part of Kilohana Plantation since it first opened to the public in 1986. Over the years, Fred Atkins has worked alongside many valued partners, and today the business is proudly family owned and operated. While Kilohana Plantation itself is owned by the Wilcox family, we've enjoyed a long-term lease and have played an important role in helping shape the property into one of Kauaʻi's most unique destinations.

Kilohana has become a place where both locals and visitors come together to shop, explore, eat, and experience a little glimpse of Kauaʻi's past. Today it's home to ten unique shops — including Kauaʻi-made businesses like Malie Organics, the Kauaʻi Sweet Shoppe, Koloa Rum, and Cane Field Clothing — and memorable experiences like Kauaʻi Plantation Railway, walking tours, Kauaʻi Rum Safaris, and Kauaʻi's number one luau, Luau Kalamaku.

Seven Years at Iliahi Estate

"We knew this was an experience worth sharing—with visitors, and with local families alike."

The inspiration for Kilohana Crater Expeditions came from a place very close to the Atkins family's heart. For seven years, the family lived at Iliahi Estate — the beautiful plantation home tucked into the lush mountain lands behind Kilohana. During that time, they came to know the old sugar-cane roads, the pasture lands, and the hidden trails that lead deep into the heart of the island.

Three Years in the Making

After three years of planning and creating the route, Kilohana Crater Expeditions now connects the two historic plantation homes — Kilohana and Iliahi — sharing the beauty of the land, honoring the history of the area, and telling the stories of Kauaʻi's plantation and ranching past in a meaningful way.

The family's hope is that this adventure becomes a true highlight of every visitor's stay on Kauaʻi — while also giving local residents the chance to experience a remarkable part of the island that many have never seen before.

A note to our kamaʻāina

This tour was built with you in mind too. If you grew up here, or have called Kauaʻi home for any stretch of your life, we'd love to host you. Ask about our kamaʻāina rate.