Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
What you will visit:
Parker Ranch
Explore one of the oldest working ranches on Hawaii Island and learn about its unique, innovative and sustainable agricultural practices. Founded in 1847 by John Parker, the ranch was once the largest in the United States. He was hired by King Kamehameha I to herd cattle, and his family story is on display in the ranch's two homes filled with family heirlooms. Learn how "paniolos," or cowboys, can trace their roots to the Mexican cowboys who settled in the 1830s. Still a working ranch, the 175,000 acres contain around 30,000 to 35,000 head of cattle and 250 horses.
Vegetable Farm
Stroll through a local organic vegetable farm and experience first-hand what it takes to farm in Hawaii. The Big Island's varied climate zones make it possible to grow almost anything - a true agricultural cornucopia. Tropical fruits like bananas, mangos and papayas, as well as macadamia nuts and aromatic coffee, are just a few of the offerings from this fertile land.
What you see along the way:
Soak in the Kona coastal views and see if you can spot the multiple volcanoes that make up Hawaii Island as you travel to the northern farm lands. Enjoy mile after mile of green hills and windswept pastures as you travel 1.25 hours along mountain roads to sprawling Parker Ranch.
Lunch:
Merriman's Restaurant
A Big Island treasure for over 20 years, Chef Peter Merriman's flagship restaurant, located in picturesque upcountry Waimea, serves up a tantalizing, chef-prepared, three-course menu at the famous Merriman's Restaurant utilizing the very best of the local products the Big Island has to offer.
The sample menu features:
Salad Course:
Big Island Tomato, Avocado, and Honopua Farm Arugula with Maytag Bleu Cheese, Spicy Corn Vinaigrette
Entrée Course (choose 1):
1) Always Fresh Grilled Island Fish with Sliced Vine Ripened Tomatoes, Waimea Cabbage Salad, Jasmine Rice
2) Merriman's Specialty Braised Chinese Short Ribs with Kim Chee, Pineapple Salsa, Baby Bok Choy, Jasmine Rice
3) Waipio Taro Enchiladas (Vegetarian, Gluten Free. Vegan without cheese) with Spiced Enchilada Sauce, Herb Grilled Asparagus, Waimea Green Beans, Aged Cheddar, Garden Cilantro
Dessert:
Velvety Hanaoka Farms Lilikoi Mousse
Macadamia Nut Shortbread Cookies
Special Notes:
Minimum age is 8 years. Participants should be able to walk short distances up to 1-mile on uneven terrain and short climbs. The menu is seasonal and in order to provide the freshest ingredients is subject to change at restaurant's discretion. Alcohol is additional and payable by guests direct.Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.