Overview
This experience takes place on a working Big Island ranch and is guided by local Hawaiians who share cultural knowledge through storytelling and hands-on learning — not a scripted performance. Guests leave with a deeper understanding of Hawaiian values, traditions, and the meaning behind lei making, along with a handmade lei to take home as a meaningful reminder of their time in Hawaiʻi.
Itinerary
Experience Hawaiian culture in a meaningful, hands-on way at Ohana Ranch on the Big Island. This small-group experience is guided by local Hawaiians who share the stories, values, and traditions behind one of Hawaiʻi’s most recognizable cultural practices — lei making.
More than a craft activity, this experience focuses on the meaning behind the lei: when they are given, what different materials represent, and why the act of making one by hand carries deep cultural significance. As you create your own lei using fresh island materials, you’ll learn how this tradition reflects love, connection, celebration, and aloha.
Set on a working ranch, this relaxed experience offers time for conversation, questions, and photos, making it a great fit for families, couples, and travelers interested in understanding Hawaiʻi beyond the beaches.
What’s Included
Inclusions
- Time for photos and questions with your host
- Stories and insights about Hawaiian traditions and values
- Lei making with step-by-step guidance from a local host
- Your handmade lei to wear and take home
- Guided Hawaiian culture experience at Ohana Ranch
- All materials needed to create your lei
- Free on-site parking at Ohana Ranch
Meeting & Logistics
Special Instructions
*PLEASE ARRIVE ON TIME - LATE ARRIVALS MUST RESCHEDULE WITH A FEE*
Directions to the Ranch GATE: PLEASE NOTE- IT'S A 10 MINUTE DRIVE FROM THE RANCH ENTRANCE TO THE PARKING LOT.
**✨ Please double-check your island! We are located on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi — not Oʻahu.**
Simply enter "Ohana Ranch" into your gps.
From Hilo town:
- Take Route 11 South until you reach Stainback Road.
- Make a right onto Stanback Rd and continue until you reach Kulani Rd.
- Take a Left onto Kulani Rd.
After approximately 1 mile, you'll find the farm entrance on your left, marked by a distinctive YELLOW GATE:
Once you go through the Yellow Gate:
- Continue straight down the gravel and paved road (about 5-7 minutes)
- When you reach another closed gate, turn left onto the gravel road just before it.
- Follow the gravel road all the way up to the gravel parking lot,
- Follow the signs to meet your guide.
**Along the way, look for the Ohana Ranch signs to help guide you in.**
##Gravel Road Notice##
The road to our ranch is part of the original sugar cane road built in the 1800s—bumpy, beautiful, and part of the experience! While it’s a gravel road with uneven spots, it’s safe and regularly traveled by our guests.
Please drive slowly—5 MPH max—and avoid spinning your tires. Take it slow and steady, and you’ll do just fine.
Meeting Point
Hawaii
Additional Info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
