
Expansive. Serene. Breathtaking. Lavender Waves Farm began as a dream for Dr. Henry Cabrera, who sought to cultivate lavender and share his love for the crop with the community. Nestled in the heart of Rhode Island, the 14-acre farm was once home to Gatewood Farms, a historical community landmark. In the 1940s, families could visit the farm to purchase agricultural goods from a store located on the farm’s rolling green acres. Back then, the farm-raised cows and pigs. A weathered sign reading “Gatewood Farm—Bacon and Sausage” still hangs in the barn, a tribute to the farm’s past.
Farming can be a challenging endeavor. To support the farm’s operations, Gatewood’s previous owners had to sell portions of the land. Eventually, the Gatewood family departed, and the land passed through a few hands until Dr. Henry Cabrera bought it in 2016. He quickly set to work on restoring the farm, starting with the water system and adding electricity to the barn. Cabrera also built three stables, Dutch doors, and a poultry area, and created grazing pastures for livestock, including sheep, alpacas, llamas, camels, and donkeys. With these renovations in place, he began envisioning his lavender farm. In 2017, a custom-made gazebo was placed at the center of the lavender field. The following year, Cabrera planted the first circle of lavender, with a second circle added in 2019. Today, over 4,000 lavender plants in 10 varieties flourish on the farm. By 2020, Lavender Waves Farm opened its doors to the public, quickly becoming a popular destination within the local community.
Lavender Waves Farm Operations
Though Dr. Cabrera is an anesthesiologist by profession, he dedicates his free time to maintaining Lavender Waves Farm and creating a transformative experience for visitors. The farm employs between three and ten workers throughout the year. While lavender blooms are seasonal, Cabrera emphasizes that the farm never stops operating—daily animal care, including feeding and cleaning, continues year-round. “It’s slower in the winter, but the farm never stops living,” he explains. During spring, Cabrera and his team prune the lavender, with the plants reaching their peak bloom in June and a secondary bloom in October. A dedicated crew assists with plant cuttings, and volunteers from the Kingston Hill Garden Club of South Kingstown also lend a hand.
Lavender Waves Farm Livestock
The farm’s livestock includes two Dromedary camels, Jack and Bingham, the only ones of their kind in Rhode Island. Dromedary camels, known for their single hump, originate from the Arabian deserts. The farm is also home to a three-year-old Bactrian camel named Humphrey. “At Lavender Waves Farm, we’re fortunate to have three out of the five privately owned camels in Rhode Island,” Cabrera shares. “These magnificent creatures add a unique charm to any event, captivating visitors with their sheer size.”
The Lavender Waves Experience
Visitors are drawn to the farm’s peaceful atmosphere, with about 2,500 guests visiting annually. Cabrera fondly mentions Dolly Llama, his pet llama, and Humphrey the camel, along with the farm’s stunning vistas. “I love seeing everything well-maintained,” he notes. “The entrance path is one of my favorites—it quietly weaves through the property, hiding the expansive lavender field just beyond view.”
For those seeking a relaxing getaway, a rustic Airbnb on-site offers a luxurious escape. The space, crafted from reclaimed wood from a 150-year-old silo, features a king-size bed with views of the lavender fields, a reclaimed wood futon for additional guests, and a kitchen and living area with similar scenic views. The suite’s bathroom boasts Estonian amethyst geode sinks, Italian granite, and a shower complete with rainfall, a waterfall, and massage jets, offering a truly relaxing experience. Guests also enjoy exclusive access to the farm, including the gazebo. The Airbnb is an adult-only retreat, and pets are not permitted.
Nearby towns such as Westerly, Charlestown, Narragansett, and Newport offer additional attractions and accommodations, with Foxwoods Casino just 35 minutes away and Mohegan Sun 50 minutes away.
Lavender Waves Weddings & Memberships
The farm also serves as a wedding venue, offering a membership package for exclusive access to its gardens and animals. Members can purchase lavender and enjoy a private experience on the farm, including time with the animals and access to the fields and grounds. One wedding photographer, Lynne, praised the venue’s unique charm: “Lavender Waves Farm is a dreamy venue,” she said. “It’s the perfect mix of rustic elegance, with breathtaking animals and views. The grounds were flawless, and my clients had an unforgettable day.”
Lavender Waves Farm: A Labor of Love
Lavender Waves Farm is deeply tied to its agricultural heritage. In 2020, the granddaughter of the original farm owners visited the land, and the site’s renovations brought back vivid childhood memories. The white house at the hilltop corner still stands as a reminder of the farm’s roots. Dr. Cabrera resides in the former store where the Gatewood family once sold their produce.
“The design of the farm was carefully planned to create a space of beauty, peace, and luxury for visitors,” states the farm’s website. “By cultivating lavender and providing access to this special place, the farm serves as a gathering spot for the community amid the soothing lavender waves.”
Dr. Cabrera’s Lavender Waves Farm offers a serene retreat for visitors, providing an escape from the fast-paced world. With ongoing community support, the farm will continue to thrive as a labor of love, bringing joy to visitors for years to come.