Southport Magazine

I am a huge Disney Geek. Let’s just get that out there. I am an adult who loves going to Walt Disney World, with or without our now-grown son. One of the joys of the Disney parks is the snacks that have come to be, at least in part, part of the parks’ identity. Mickey-shaped pretzels, Rice Krispie Treats and ice cream bars, churros, and my personal favorite, the Dole Whip. Dole Whips are traditionally found at the Aloha Isle Refreshments booth in Adventureland. This is tucked in behind the Magic Carpets of Aladdin, next to the Enchanted Tiki Room and very near the entrance to the Jungle Cruise. This is one of my favorite spots in Disney’s Magic Kingdom. The sounds and smells transport you away, and that is the root of my joy at Disney’s parks. 

Imagine how happy it made me to find out that I could grab a little taste of that nostalgia, of that Disney Magic, just minutes from my house. When I saw a photo from the Tiki Pineapple Whips guys pop up on my Instagram feed, I kind of freaked out. I didn’t believe it at first, but yes, it was true. These guys, Drew and Leeann Peterson and Chip Walton, have the Dole Whips I love and they’re serving them up right on my island. I had to share their story, so we had a cionverstion with Drew. 

Can you describe your business? When did you open here? What is your background? Are you part of a partnership?

Tiki Pineapple whips is a beach-side, family-owned and -operated Dole Whip business. We cater to locals and tourists alike by specializing in and perfecting the famous Dole pineapple whips and floats. We officially opened June 18th at 4602 East Beach Dr. (between Middleton park and the public beach cabana).

I was a firefighter/paramedic for 20 years prior to my move to OKI and my wife and my business partner, Chip, are both Physician Assistants. Last year, as my wife transitioned into her new career as a PA, I was on the hunt for a new, fun, family-oriented business venture. I have long loved the famous Dole whips and learned that I could potentially obtain the highly coveted recipe. I then approached our close family friend, Chip, with the opportunity to invest. He loved the idea and was all in! We worked together to open up Tiki Pineapple Whips and this became our quarantine project. We were very fortunate to find the perfect spot right at the park, public parking, and beach access.

What do you offer at your business? What exactly is a Dole Whip?

A Dole whip is a delicious and unique pineapple soft serve, although it is very different from ice cream. Dole whips are dairy-free, lactose-free, gluten-free, vegan and allergy-friendly. The pineapple Dole whips are actually free of the “Big 8” allergens as delineated by the FDA, so it is a wonderful alternative for many different diets!

At Tiki Pineapple Whips, we offer our pineapple Dole whips in small and regular sized servings, as well as quart-size take home options. We also have the famous Dole whip floats, which consist of the pineapple whip with cold Dole pineapple juice served on top. It’s a crowd pleaser! 

We’re kind of familiar with Dole whips from Disney World. Was that your inspiration?

Most folks are aware of the Dole Whips from either Disney World or the Dole plantation in Hawaii, as were we. The now famous Dole Whips and Floats were introduced to the public in 1986 at these locations and quickly gained somewhat of a cult following! Seeing how much everyone loves this cool treat, I thought why not bring it locally for Oak Island and the surrounding areas to enjoy!

What brought you to Oak Island?

My wife and I relocated to Brunswick county for her to begin her new career shortly after graduation. While out exploring the surrounding areas, we fell in love with Oak Island. The beaches are beautiful, the people are friendly and there is a strong sense of community here. We decided to not only build our home and settle down here but to bring the business for all to enjoy as well! The people of OKI have been so supportive and welcoming.

How has it been launching a business in the middle of a pandemic? What challenges have you faced? How have you overcome them? Can you point to something you’ve learned that you think will serve you particularly well going forward?

The COVID-19 pandemic and the innumerable unknowns that came along with it did pose a unique challenge for a new start-up business. There were multiple delays with equipment, supplies, certifications, and permits. This was all coupled with learning and complying with the newly issued CDC guidelines and standards for safely opening and serving the public. Luckily, and coincidently, we are designed as an outside pickup only business which allows for safe social distancing. We 100 percent comply with the CDC cleaning guidelines/regimens, socially distance employees, and wear masks so everyone can safely enjoy our product. We like to think it brings a little Hawaii sunshine and Walt Disney happiness during a rather difficult time. We pride ourselves on being a safe, local destination for a cool treat, and good, friendly conversations. 

Can you speak to the community’s support of your business so far?

The locals and tourists of Oak Island have really been supportive, welcoming and hospitable! The locals and tourists have made Tiki Pineapple Whips a designated destination on their summer to-do lists. We really enjoy seeing our repeat, loyal customers as well as all of the new faces! We were truly welcomed with open arms and are super excited to be here. We really enjoy meeting our customers and sharing the Dole Whip story! 

What are your plans for the future?

In the near future we plan to expand the Tiki Pineapple Whips territory and bring this treat to more of the surrounding local beaches for all to enjoy!