One of Hawaii’s oldest and biggest former pineapple producers is getting back into the farming business with a crop used to make tequila in Mexico.
Maui Land &Pineapple Co. is ramping up plans to establish an agave tequilana farm on the Valley Isle.
The endeavor represents a return to farming for the company 16 years after it ceased pineapple production that a predecessor began in 1903.
Kapalua-based MLP said the initiative will honor its agricultural roots and align with a focus to be more productive with thousands of acres of company-owned farmland while also providing more jobs and environmental benefits on Maui using a plant that doesn’t need much water and reduces fire risk on fallow agricultural fields.
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MLP also noted potential to produce spirits from the crop and build an agritourism business around it.
“We believe this new venture represents a significant opportunity to create long-term growth potential for the company … ,” Race Randle, MLP CEO, said in a recent statement announcing the plan.
MLP is cultivating over 12,000 baby agave tequilana plants, more commonly known as blue agave or blue Weber agave, in a nursery. Later this year, planting is slated to begin on 120 acres of former pineapple fields in Upcountry Maui.
Randle also said during a recent annual stockholders meeting that about 6,500 acres of former pineapple plantation lands owned by the company have potential for similar use.
Growing blue agave to make distilled spirits is a long-term prospect because the plants can take around six to nine years to mature for harvesting. However, one entrepreneur on Maui already has demonstrated that it can be viable.
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Hawaii pioneer
Paul Turner, a bike suspension company founder who moved to Maui at about the same time MLP got out of pineapple farming, kind of wandered into blue agave as a crop to grow in Haliimaile where pineapple was once abundant.
Turner, who started and later sold RockShox, bought 140 acres of land once partly planted in pineapple from Alexander &Baldwin Inc. with a rough idea to raise some kind of cash crop possibly including citrus or cattle.
After planting orange, lemon, lime and pomegranate trees, Turner said he came across someone selling blue agave starter plants online and was intrigued.
“I didn’t know much about them,” he said. “I’ve always had a love or affinity for tequila, and so I bought them just as kind of a novelty more than anything else.”
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Pretty quickly, Turner said, the plants, which are in the same family as asparagus but are succulents, started to thrive. This prompted him to do in-depth research that evolved into a business plan followed by six acres of plants in Haliimaile. A self-fabricated processing and distillery facility began operating three years ago, and finally a tasting room opened in late 2023 under the business and brand name Waikulu Distillery.
Stephanie Whalen, a former executive director of the Hawaii Agriculture Research Center, said she is unaware of the crop being studied for commercial use in Hawaii.
Jensen Uyeda, an associate extension agent with the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, said the long cultivation time makes blue agave challenging as a commercial crop but that obtaining a premium price for spirits made from the plant in Hawaii can be a mitigating factor.
“Paul has definitely found his niche and maybe the rest of the industry can build on that,” Uyeda said in an email.
Turner said he found former pineapple fields with no irrigation to be very hospitable for his crop, with mature cores that typically weigh 300 to 400 pounds yielding four times the amount of juice than what he found in Mexico.
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Waikulu Distillery steams the plant cores after hacking off big spiky leaves, and crushes the cooked pieces after cooling to extract juice that then gets fermented and distilled to produce “agave spirits” in different flavors infused by barrel aging or additions such as chili peppers. Such spirits can be labeled tequila only if produced in Mexico.
Turner said his operation has a conservative production capacity of 12,000 bottles a year. Everything he makes is sold on Maui, with about half sold at the farm and distillery where 90-minute tours are held two days a week for $65 per person including tasting or $43 without.
MLP is well aware of Turner’s achievement, and its planned initial blue agave farm site is nearby.
Pineapple decline
Pineapple decades ago was Hawaii’s biggest cash crop, with growers mainly on Oahu, Maui, Molokai and Lanai at one time supplying more than 80% of the world market for canned pineapple.
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On Maui, two brothers descended from missionaries started growing pineapple in Haiku on the island’s northeastern shore in 1890. The venture by Henry Perrine Baldwin and David Dwight Baldwin led to the formation in 1903 of Haiku Fruit &Packing Co., regarded as the start of commercial pineapple farming on Maui.
After combinations with other Baldwin companies, Maui Pineapple Co. then led by Maui’s Cameron family became MLP in 1969 and issued shares of publicly traded stock.
The company, which owned about 29,000 acres of land on Maui including 12,000 at one time planted in pineapple, diversified into resort and residential development projects that included Kapalua Resort over the next few decades. But all aspects of the business eventually suffered.
Statewide, pineapple production peaked in 1955 at 1.5 million tons of fruit grown on 76,700 acres, and a decline had taken hold by 1966 that grew to affect MLP and other big growers including Del Monte, Dole and Hawaiian Fruit Packers.
MLP, which in 1999 employed 1,480 people in pineapple production and farmed about 6,000 acres, had difficulty with Hawaii’s high labor, land and transportation costs in the face of competition with lower-cost plantations in Asia and Central America.
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The company halted pineapple canning in 2007 to concentrate on fresh-fruit operations with a new $20 million packing facility. But two years later MLP harvested its final crop after $115 million in losses from agricultural operations since 2002 and no envisioned turnaround.
Returning to roots
MLP resort and land development operations also suffered from downturns in tourism and real estate around the same time, forcing the company to sell valuable assets to pay off debt, including two Kapalua golf courses sold in 2009 and 2010 for a combined $74 million.
In more recent years, MLP has continued to sell assets while also leasing some of its roughly 22,000 acres of land to others, including pineapple producer Maui Gold Pineapple Co.
Overall, relatively little MLP agricultural land is occupied, according to the company, which last year had 15 employees and reported a $7.4 million net loss on $11.6 million in operating revenue. The loss was largely due to employee stock compensation costs, severance paid to a former CEO and higher real estate development and leasing expenses.
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During the first three months of this year, MLP reported a $8.6 million loss generally driven by the same factors.
Randle said in his presentation to shareholders that blue agave farming is a relatively low-cost opportunity to make more productive use of MLP land that is tied to the company’s legacy in agriculture and has high future revenue potential.
“Our mission remains to thoughtfully maximize the productivity of our vast portfolio of assets,” he said.
Authorities in Hawaii have charged a 36-year-old man with murder in the killings of three people in a remote community known for its eclectic, communal lifestyle.
Jacob Daniel Baker was charged with counts of first- and second-degree murder Saturday, the Hawaii Police Department said in a news release.
Baker remained jailed without bond Sunday and police said his first court appearance was scheduled for Monday. It was not immediately known if Baker had an attorney who could speak for him.
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Charges in the killings came two days after police apprehended Baker following a manhunt on Hawaii’s Big Island, where the three victims were found in the rural Puna community known for its tropical landscape and free-spirited residents.
Robert Shine, 69, was found dead Monday partially submerged in a cement pond, according to police. The second victim, a 79-year-old man, was discovered Tuesday a few hundred feet away. Friends identified him as Chitta Morse.
Police found the third victim, 69-year-old John Carse, late Tuesday at a property 19 miles from where the other two bodies were located.
Police have not given a suspected motive for the killings. Hawaii Police Chief Reed Mahuna has said investigators found no connections among the victims other than that two of them lived near each other.
In addition to the murder charges, Baker also faces counts of burglary, auto theft and criminal damage to property.
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The killings left residents on edge in Puna, a community set amid lush jungle and barren lava fields where people seeking to live off-grid commonly trade work for lodging.
Puna resident Stephen Shaffer said that Baker had worked for his ex-wife, climbing coconut trees on land where she grows fruit, in exchange for a place to live. After several months, Shaffer said, his ex-wife sought a restraining order against Baker, saying she felt threatened by him.
Donald Hyatt, a friend of Shaffer’s ex-wife and of two of the men killed, said Baker left the cabin where he had been living months ago. Hyatt said that Baker recently returned claiming “squatter’s rights” and threatened Shaffer’s ex.
Just days before the killings, two women had requested temporary restraining orders against Baker, saying he had threatened and harassed them, according to court records. A judge denied both applications, saying there was not enough proof of harassment.
Court records showed Baker named in 20 other cases in the past two decades, many of them traffic infractions. In most of those cases, Baker had no attorney and represented himself.
Hawaii is home to a wide range of towns that give older adults relaxing ways to enjoy their retirement years. Across the islands, retirees can find communities with easy access to healthcare and outdoor recreation. Coastal towns like Kailua-Kona and Līhuʻe offer ocean views and nearby medical care. Inland communities such as Waimea and Makawao provide cooler weather and an easier rhythm. Retirees may be drawn to smaller places with a strong community feel, while those wanting more services may prefer regional hubs like Hilo. Together, these Hawaiian towns offer a mix of natural beauty and everyday comforts.
Kailua-Kona
Keauhou Bay, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Kailua-Kona is a coastal town on the Big Island of Hawaii with fewer than 25,000 residents. It continues to attract retirees thanks to its warm weather and ocean access. Areas like Kealakehe and Holualoa are still growing, with new subdivisions adding more housing options for people who want to stay long-term.
Most medical care is provided by the nearby Kona Community Hospital, and clinics throughout the Kona district offer additional services. Some of the main landmarks are Kailua Pier, Huliheʻe Palace, Kamakahonu Beach, and Kona Commons Shopping Center. These spots help residents stay active year-round.
Hilo
Overlooking Hilo, Hawaii.
Hilo is a well-known retirement-friendly community on Hawaii Island, known for being easy to walk around. With about 48,000 residents, according to recent Census data, Hilo is a regional center for healthcare, education, and government services, which helps create long-term stability for residents.
Hilo Benioff Medical Center is the main hospital for East Hawaii and provides most of the area’s healthcare. There are also outpatient and senior care services, such as the nearby Life Care Center of Hilo.
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People in Hilo often spend time at places like Wailoa River State Recreation Area, Hilo Farmers Market, Liliʻuokalani Gardens, and Rainbow Falls. These spots are close to neighborhoods like Waiākea and Keaukaha.
Waimea
Rolling green pastureland with white fences near Waimea, Hawaii’s Big Island.
Waimea is a small inland town on Hawaii Island with fewer than 10,000 residents. Because it sits at a higher elevation, the weather is cooler, with daytime temperatures usually between 70 and 80°F and nights that feel much cooler.
Residents have access to healthcare through local clinics and services linked to Queen’s North Hawai’i Community Hospital in Waimea, which provides essential care for the area. The town has strong connections to Parker Ranch, one of the country’s largest ranches, as well as nearby ranchlands. Waimea attracts retirees who want a quieter inland setting, strong community organizations, and fewer people.
Līhuʻe
A couple walks along Kalapaki Beach in Lihue, Kaua’i, Hawai’i.
Līhuʻe serves as Kauai’s administrative and service center and has fewer than 10,000 residents. The town plays a central role in healthcare and government operations across the island. It is just 30 minutes from Hanapepe and offers retirees a small-town feel, with natural scenery all around.
Wilcox Medical Center is the largest hospital on the island and provides care for residents throughout Kauai. Notable landmarks include Kalapaki Beach, Nawiliwili Harbor, Kauai Museum, and Kilohana Plantation. Together, these sites support recreation, tourism, and community events across the area.
Kapa’a
Shops in downtown Kapa’a in Hawaii. Image credit bluestork via Shutterstock.com
Kapaʻa sits on the east side of Kauai and has about 11,000 residents. It is easy to get around on foot, with everything you could need close by. The town serves as both a place to live and a hub for businesses in the area.
Residents can access healthcare at local clinics such as The Clinic at Kapaa or at Wilcox Medical Center in Līhuʻe. Some well-known spots in Kapaʻa are Kapaʻa Beach Park, the Sleeping Giant Trail, Coconut Marketplace, and Wailua River State Park. Coconut Marketplace has a Farmer’s Market twice a week, plus live local music. Hula classes and shows are also a local favorite offered at Coconut Marketplace.
Kailua
Overlooking Kailua, Oahu.
Kailua is a residential area on the windward side of Oahu with fewer than 50,000 residents. The town is known for its easy access to beaches and well-established neighborhoods such as Enchanted Lake and Coconut Grove.
Residents have access to healthcare through nearby hospitals in the Honolulu area. Adventist Health Castle, which is located in Kailua, is one of the main options. In addition, Kalapawai Market is a local favorite to grab coffee, ube scones, and other treats.
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Kailua is home to many beaches for swimming and watersports, including Kailua Beach Park. Lanikai Beach is a public beach within a residential neighborhood, with no lifeguards, restrooms, or public parking lot. For walking and biking, Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular dog-friendly wildlife sanctuary with a scenic trail.
Haleʻiwa
Aerial view of Haleiwa, Hawaii.
Hale’iwa is known for its slower pace and strong connection to Oahu’s North Shore coastline. This historic North Shore town is said to be the quirkiest and has a population of under 5,000. It maintains a small commercial core while serving nearby rural communities.
Healthcare is available through clinics in Waialua and through The Queen’s Medical Center – Wahiawā in central Oahu.
Notable landmarks in Haleʻiwa include Haleʻiwa Beach Park, a popular spot for fishing and sunset views, and Waimea Bay, known for its large winter surf and summer swimming conditions. The nearby Banzai Pipeline draws surfers from around the world during big-wave season on Oahu’s North Shore. Residents also spend time at Haleʻiwa Aliʻi Beach Park, which has picnic areas and shoreline walking paths.
Wahiawa
Waikele Premium Outlets in Honolulu County, near Wahiawa, Hawaii. Image credit ARTYOORAN via Shutterstock.com
Wahiawa is a central Oahu community with a population of roughly 17,000. It sits between the island’s north and south regions, and provides a quieter inland setting while still allowing access to both Oahu’s north and south coasts.
Healthcare in Wahiawa is available through in-town facilities, such as The Queen’s Medical Center – Wahiawā.
Local landmarks include Lake Wilson, where residents fish and kayak, and the Wahiawa Botanical Garden, known for its large tropical trees and walking paths. Nearby Schofield Barracks remains one of the largest military installations in Hawaii and shapes much of the area’s economy. Residents also rely on Whitmore Village for local businesses, neighborhood services, and access to agricultural areas outside town.
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Makawao
The town of Makawao sits on the slope of the Haleakala volcano in Maui.
Makawao is a small town in upcountry Maui with fewer than 10,000 residents. Its higher elevation gives the area cooler temperatures than much of coastal Maui, especially during the evenings.
Makawao maintains a rural atmosphere while still keeping residents close to shopping and healthcare in nearby Kahului and central Maui for routine and specialized care.
Residents enjoy art galleries, and nearby access routes to Haleakalā National Park, which draw both residents and visitors into Maui’s upland landscapes. The community also gathers around Oskie Rice Event Center, which hosts rodeos and local events throughout the year, while Pukalani Country Club provides golf and recreation with views of central Maui.
Pāhoa
Downtown Pahoa, Hawaii. Image credit Chris Allan via Shutterstock
Pāhoa is a small town on Hawaii Island with fewer than 1,000 residents. The community has a slower pace of life and a strong local character shaped by East Hawaii’s volcanic landscape. Residents access healthcare through clinics in nearby Hilo and facilities connected to Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation in East Hawaii.
Local landmarks include Lava Tree State Monument, where lava formations surround walking paths through tropical forest, and the historic downtown which still contains several older storefronts and small local businesses such as Tin Shack Bakery. Nearby Pohoiki Black Sand Beach has become a popular coastal gathering area following recent volcanic activity, while the former Ahalanui Park site (destroyed by the Kīlauea lava flow in 2018) remains an important part of the region’s history and shoreline identity.
Honoka’a
Overlooking Honoka’a, Hawaii.
Honokaʻa is a small plantation-era town on the Big Island of Hawaii. With fewer than 3,000 residents, its historic main street reflects its sugar industry past with preserved storefronts and a compact town center that still serves the surrounding Hamakua Coast communities.
Residents access healthcare through Queen’s North Hawai’i Community Hospital in nearby Waimea, which provides essential services for the region.
Along the main corridor, residents frequent shops such as Tex Drive-In, known for its malasadas, and Cafe Il Mondo, a long-running local café. The nearby Kalōpā State Recreation Area offers forest trails and native vegetation, while the Hamakua Coast provides scenic coastal drives with waterfalls and ocean views. Routes toward Akaka Falls connect the town to one of the island’s most visited natural landmarks.
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Hawaii Retirement Across the Islands
Retirement spots in Hawaii are found across the islands, each with its own pace of life. Towns like Kailua-Kona and Līhuʻe keep residents close to healthcare, services, and coastal scenery, while places such as Waimea, Makawao, and Honokaʻa offer quieter inland settings with strong local character. Others, including Hilo, Kapaʻa, and Haleʻiwa, balance everyday conveniences with beaches, parks, markets, and community gathering places. As people in Hawaii look for more space, fewer crowds, and reliable access to care, these towns show how varied retirement living can be across the state.
