You’ll get up close with real working bees on Oahu’s North Shore, suit up like a beekeeper, and taste fresh honey straight from the source. It’s hands-on, fun for all ages (as long as you’re not allergic), and gives you a whole new appreciation for these little pollinators.
The first thing you’ll notice out here in Waialua is the soft hum—almost like a gentle background song—coming from the hives tucked behind rows of banana trees. We met our guide, Kaleo, right by the old wooden sign at the farm entrance. He handed us our bee suits (they’re lighter than they look, honestly) and cracked a joke about “looking like astronauts.” The air smelled sweet, with a hint of wildflowers and ripe fruit drifting in from the orchard next door.
Walking just a few steps through the shade, we reached the beehives. Bees zipped past us, busy but not bothered by our presence. Kaleo pointed out the queen bee—she’s bigger than I expected—and we even caught a glimpse of a bee emerging from its cell for the first time. Holding a honeycomb frame was stickier than I thought, but you could feel the warmth from all that activity inside. Someone in our group snapped photos while another kid counted bees (he gave up after 20).
Afterwards, we peeled off our gloves and headed to a shaded table for honey tasting. There were jars lined up—some raw, some infused with things like ginger or local cacao. The macadamia blossom honey was my favorite; it tasted almost buttery. Bottled water was handy since it gets warm in those suits, especially if you visit midday. We chatted with the staff about how different flowers change the flavor of each batch—something you don’t really think about until you taste them side by side.
Yes! Kids love it and suits are available in smaller sizes. Just note it’s not recommended for children under 3 or anyone with bee sting allergies.
Nope—total beginners welcome. The guides explain everything step by step and help you suit up safely.
Closed shoes are best since you'll be walking near hives. We provide full suits and gloves, plus bottled water to keep cool.
Public transport runs nearby, so getting here without driving is possible—just check bus times ahead of your visit.
Your spot includes bottled water and all beekeeping gear—full suit and gloves—so you can focus on exploring (and tasting) without worry.
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