Hawaii’s wineries don’t feel anything like those in California or Europe. You’ll notice they use tropical fruits and local grapes, and a lot of them perch near volcanoes, ranches, or right by the ocean.
If you visit, you get to taste some pretty unusual wines and see firsthand how winemaking on the islands works.
Exploring Hawaii’s Unique Wineries
You won’t find many working wineries in Hawaii, but each one brings something special to the table. The most famous is definitely the Volcano Winery on the Big Island.
It’s right next to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and pours both grape and tropical fruit wines. Over on Maui, MauiWine—sometimes called Tedeschi Vineyards—sits at Ulupalakua Ranch.
This ranch is historic, with rolling hills and knockout views.
On Kauai, Nani Moon Meadery does things a little differently by crafting meads from honey. Big Island Meadery in Hilo also focuses on honey wines.
You won’t stumble across wineries everywhere in Hawaii, but these few are worth seeking out if you want local flavor and a fresh spin on what a winery can be.
| Winery Name | Island | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Volcano Winery | Big Island | Grape & tropical fruit wines |
| MauiWine (Tedeschi) | Maui | Pineapple & sparkling wines |
| Nani Moon Meadery | Kauai | Mead (honey wine) |
| Big Island Meadery | Big Island | Mead (honey wine) |
Signature Wines of Hawaii
When you think of Hawaiian wine, pineapple wine probably comes to mind first. It’s light, fruity, and just a bit sweet—thanks to the fresh pineapple grown right on the islands.
MauiWine has built its reputation on pineapple wines, including a sparkling version.
You’ll also spot some creative blends that mix local grapes with tropical fruits like guava or passionfruit. Volcano Winery makes white wines and interesting blends using Symphony grapes.
Instead of sticking with only traditional grapes, winemakers here use whatever fruit and flowers Hawaii grows best.
Nani Moon Meadery, for example, crafts mead from Hawaiian honey. Tasting these wines gives you a real sense of Hawaii’s flavors in every glass.
If you’re into dessert wines, try one with macadamia nuts or honey. It’s not your typical wine experience.
Winemaking in the Islands
Hawaii’s climate is warm and rainy a lot of the time, so grape options are limited compared to somewhere like California. Most wineries here use hybrid grapes or tropical fruit.
Winegrowers have figured out how to make it work by planting hardy types like Symphony grapes. These do well near Hilo and up higher where it’s cooler.
Winemakers get creative, often blending fruit like pineapple, coffee berries, or passionfruit with local grapes. The volcanic soil adds its own twist, giving the wine a little earthiness you might not expect.
Since winemaking is pretty small-scale here, you’ll probably meet the people who actually make the wine. They love sharing stories about the land and what makes Hawaiian wine stand out.
Visiting Tips and Travel Inspiration
You’ll usually find Hawaiian wineries tucked away in beautiful spots, far from busy cities. MauiWine, for example, sits in Upcountry Maui, surrounded by ranch land and far from the bustle of Honolulu.
If you head to Volcano Winery, you might want to bring a light jacket. The higher elevation can get surprisingly cool, even in Hawaii.
It’s smart to book tasting appointments ahead, especially if you’re visiting during peak travel times. Most tasting rooms open during the day and offer relaxed outdoor seating with great views.
Stick around and explore the area near each winery. Visiting Volcano Winery pairs nicely with a trip to the national park.
MauiWine is close to small towns and scenic drives in Ulupalakua. Don’t skip the local snacks—fresh pineapple or macadamia nuts go really well with the wines.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find a handful of unique spots to try wine in Hawaii, and each island has its own thing going on. Most wineries offer tours, tastings, and wines with tropical flavors.
What are the top-rated wineries to visit in Hawaii?
A couple of well-known wineries are definitely worth a stop. MauiWine is a favorite for its pineapple wine and beautiful grounds.
On the Big Island, Volcano Winery sits near Volcanoes National Park and serves up wines made with local fruits and traditional grapes.
Which wineries can I find on the Big Island?
The Big Island’s most famous winery is Volcano Winery. It’s actually the only one on the island.
They offer tastings, tours, and a range of wines made from both fruit and grapes.
Are there any vineyards or wineries on Maui?
Yes, you’ll find MauiWine on Maui. Here, you can taste wines made from grapes and pineapples.
To visit, you’ll need to join a wine tasting, dine as a guest, or shop at the boutique, since the grounds aren’t open for general strolling.
Where can I find Hawaiian wine brands?
Keep an eye out for MauiWine and Volcano Winery in stores and restaurants around Hawaii. Specialty wine shops like Wine Shop on Kauai sometimes carry local Hawaiian bottles.
Many wineries also sell their wines online or at their own shops.
How do vineyards in Hawaii differ from those on the mainland?
Hawaiian vineyards often use tropical fruits like pineapple or guava along with grapes. The climate and volcanic soil give the wine a unique personality.
Because of Hawaii’s weather, growing conditions are pretty different from places like California or Oregon.
Can I tour any wineries near the Volcanoes National Park?
Absolutely! Volcano Winery sits just a short drive from Volcanoes National Park.
You can swing by for tastings and see firsthand how they create their wines. They offer some varieties you probably won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re already exploring the park, it’s a super easy side trip. Why not check it out?