Pineapples
Pineapples were once a major Hawaiian crop, though much large-scale production has shifted overseas. On Hawaiʻi Island, smaller farms grow specialty varieties for fresh local sales and farm tours.
Compact pineapple plants adapt well to volcanic soils and warm conditions. Farmers commonly cultivate smooth Cayenne or unique “sugarloaf” varieties prized for extra sweetness. Harvest can be staggered year-round, though many small producers schedule peaks for tourism seasons. Pineapples’ cultural resonance in Hawaiʻi keeps them in demand, with farm-to-table restaurants, fruit stands, and gift shops featuring fresh pineapples. Despite global competition, local boutique pineapples remain popular among visitors who appreciate island-grown authenticity, helping sustain modest acreage on Hawaiʻi Island.