If there’s one snack that has truly reached legendary status at Disney parks, it’s the Dole Whip. This creamy, fruity, dairy-free frozen dessert has been delighting Disney guests for decades, earning a cult following along the way. But where did this iconic treat come from, and how did it become a Disney must-have? Let’s dive into the delicious history of Dole Whip!

Pineapple Dole Whip at Disneyland. Photo by Matador Network.

A Sweet Partnership with Disney

The story of Dole Whip begins with Dole Food Company’s sponsorship of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland in 1976. As part of the sponsorship, Dole introduced refreshing pineapple juice and fruit spears to Adventureland, giving guests a taste of the tropics. Seven years later, in 1983, Dole expanded its sponsorship to Walt Disney World’s version of the attraction, Tropical Serenade, in Magic Kingdom. At that time, the Florida park offered vanilla soft-serve ice cream topped with diced pineapples—a precursor to the Dole Whip we know and love today.

Disneyland sign featuring the tiki bird enjoying Dole Whip.

The Creation of Dole Whip

Dole Whip itself was developed in 1983 at the Dole Technical Center in San Jose, California, by food scientist Kathy Westphal. A recent UC Davis graduate, Westphal was given the challenge of creating a non-dairy, dry-mix soft serve that could hold up in Florida’s intense heat. The result was a smooth, flavorful frozen treat that quickly became a hit.

After a soft launch in 1983, Dole Pineapple Whip officially debuted at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in 1984. It made its way to Disneyland in 1986, where it became an instant favorite. While the Magic Kingdom originally offered three flavors—pineapple, orange, and strawberry—Disneyland exclusively served pineapple.

Dole Whip’s Expansion and Cult Following

Since its introduction, Dole Whip has become a Disney park staple, with guests happily lining up for a taste of the tropical treat. Over the years, Disney has expanded its offerings, introducing new flavors, swirls, and even alcoholic versions of the dessert.

In December 2018, Disneyland opened the Tropical Hideaway in Adventureland, a dedicated seating and dining area that allowed for more soft-serve machines and, in turn, a greater variety of Dole Whip flavors and combinations. The treat’s popularity also inspired Disney to release an at-home recipe in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing fans to recreate the magic in their own kitchens.

Disney merchandise featuring Dole Whip treats. Photo by kennythepirate.com.

Where to Find Dole Whip at Disney Parks

If you’re craving this frozen delight, here’s where you can find Dole Whip at Disneyland and Walt Disney World:

Disneyland Resort

• Tiki Juice Bar (Adventureland) – The classic spot near the Enchanted Tiki Room where you can grab a traditional pineapple Dole Whip or a refreshing float.

• The Tropical Hideaway (Adventureland) – Offers multiple flavors and swirls, plus unique toppings and specialty floats.

• Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill (Disneyland Hotel) – Sometimes features seasonal Dole Whip flavors and boozy versions for adults.

Disneyland's entrance to Adventureland. Just below the Adventureland sign on the left is the Tiki Juice Bar. Photo by blogmickey.com

Walt Disney World Resort

• Aloha Isle (Magic Kingdom – Adventureland) – The go-to location for the iconic pineapple Dole Whip and other tropical flavors.

• Sunshine Tree Terrace (Magic Kingdom – Adventureland) – Often features citrus-based Dole Whip flavors, including the famous Orange Bird-inspired treats.

• Pineapple Lanai (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort) – A hidden gem where you can enjoy classic Dole Whip or try exclusive specialty flavors.

• Tamu Tamu Refreshments (Disney’s Animal Kingdom) – Offers fun twists on Dole Whip, including spiked options for guests 21 and over.

• Swirls on the Water (Disney Springs) – A must-visit spot with rotating Dole Whip flavors, floats, and seasonal offerings.

Dole Whip in front of Aloha Isle in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom. Photo by WDW Magazine.

Photo of Dole Whip menu selections at Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs in Orlando, FL. Photo by Gotto Go Orlando.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

• Pineapple Lanai (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort) – The most well-known resort location for Dole Whip, offering classic pineapple and seasonal flavors.

• Barefoot Pool Bar (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort) – Sometimes features boozy Dole Whip cocktails.

• Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Disney’s Pop Century Resort) – Occasionally offers specialty Dole Whip treats.

• The Drop Off Pool Bar (Disney’s Art of Animation Resort) – Features alcoholic versions of Dole Whip for guests 21 and over.

• BoardWalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas (Disney’s BoardWalk Inn) – Serves Dole Whip-based alcoholic drinks, perfect for a relaxing day at the resort.

Dole Whip cupcake at Contempo Cafe in Disney's Contemporary Resort at WDW.

National Dole Whip Day

Disney Parks have even dedicated a special day to celebrate this beloved treat! National Dole Whip Day takes place annually in mid-July, offering guests exclusive flavors, limited-time offerings, and special merchandise to mark the occasion. Whether you're at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, or even aboard a Disney Cruise, you can join in on the fun with themed treats and refreshing new twists on the classic Dole Whip. It’s the perfect excuse to indulge in one (or two) of these iconic frozen delights! Stay tuned to A Disney Life for Me for National Dole Whip Day at Disney 2025.

Dole Whip Beyond Disney

For years, Disney parks were the only place to get an authentic Dole Whip. However, in 2023, Dole Whip became available for purchase at select retail stores, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite treat anytime. While similar pineapple whips exist, nothing quite matches the original Dole Soft Serve that started it all!

From its humble beginnings as a sponsorship snack to its status as a Disney icon, Dole Whip has earned its place in theme park history. Whether you prefer it in a cup, as a float, or swirled with another fruity flavor, one thing is certain—no Disney trip is complete without a taste of this legendary treat!

Different flavors and offerings of Dole Whips from Disneyland and WDW. Photos from multiple online sources.

Trivia question.

What was the original flavor of the soft serve Dole Whip sold at Walt Disney World and Disneyland?

Answer. Pineapple. Dole became the sponsor of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland in 1976 and later sponsored the Florida version, Tropical Serenade, in 1983, offering pineapple treats. After a soft launch in 1983, Dole Pineapple Whip officially debuted at Magic Kingdom in 1984, followed by Disneyland in 1986. Initially, Magic Kingdom offered three flavors—pineapple, orange, and strawberry—while Disneyland exclusively served pineapple.

Photo of Tiki Juice Bar at the entrance of Adventureland in Disneyland, CA. Photo by Tipsfromthedisneydiva.com.