A Dream Turned Reality
Expansive. Serene. Breathtaking. Lavender Waves Farm is the culmination of Dr. Henry Cabrera’s vision—a place where lavender flourishes, and the community can share in his love for the crop. Nestled in the heart of Rhode Island, this picturesque 14-acre farm was once home to Gatewood Farms, a historical landmark in the area.
During the 1940s, families visited the farm to purchase agricultural goods from a store situated on its lush green landscape. Back then, the farm was dedicated to raising cows and pigs. A relic of its past, an old sign reading “Gatewood Farm—Bacon and Sausage” still hangs in the barn today as a tribute to its rich history.
Farming has always been a challenging industry, and the former owners had to sell portions of the land to sustain operations. Eventually, the Gatewood family moved on, and the property changed hands several times until 2016, when Dr. Henry Cabrera took ownership. Determined to restore the farm, he began extensive renovations—upgrading the water system, installing electricity in the barn, and constructing new facilities, including stables, Dutch doors, and a poultry area.
As the farm’s infrastructure took shape, so did Cabrera’s dream of a lavender haven. In the summer of 2017, he placed a custom-built gazebo at the heart of the property, marking the centerpiece of what would become a flourishing lavender field. The first lavender plants were introduced in 2018, followed by a second planting in 2019. Today, more than 4,000 lavender plants, spanning 10 varieties, thrive across the farm. By 2020, Lavender Waves Farm officially opened to the public, quickly becoming a cherished retreat for the local community.
Lavender Waves Farm Operations
Although Dr. Cabrera is an anesthesiologist by profession, he dedicates his spare time to cultivating the farm’s tranquil environment. Throughout the year, a team of three to ten employees helps maintain the property. While lavender plants only bloom seasonally, caring for the farm’s animals is a daily commitment.
“It’s slower in the winter, but the farm never stops living,” Cabrera explains. Pruning begins in spring, with the first bloom in June and a second in October. A team of paid workers assists with plant cuttings, while volunteers from the Kingston Hill Garden Club of South Kingstown lend a hand as needed.
A Unique Livestock Experience
Beyond its fragrant lavender fields, the farm is home to a variety of animals, including sheep, alpacas, llamas, camels, and donkeys. Among its most popular residents are Jack and Bingham, the only two Dromedary camels in Rhode Island. These 15-year-old camels, originally from sub-Saharan regions, captivate visitors with their grandeur. The farm also houses Humphrey, a three-year-old Bactrian camel—one of only five privately owned camels in the state.
“At Lavender Waves Farm, we are lucky enough to have three out of the five privately held [Rhode Island] camels,” Cabrera says. “These giant animals are a spectacular addition to any event as they mesmerize guests with their incredible size.”
An Immersive Lavender Waves Experience
Lavender Waves Farm welcomes approximately 2,500 visitors each year, who come to enjoy the property’s serene beauty. Among Cabrera’s favorite aspects of the farm are its carefully maintained landscape, the winding wagon path, and the peaceful entranceway that conceals the magnificent lavender field just beyond.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, the farm offers a luxurious on-site Airbnb. The rustic yet elegant suite is perfect for couples looking for a romantic or rejuvenating retreat. Featuring reclaimed wood from a 150-year-old silo, rustic stone tile, and exposed wooden beams, the space exudes charm. Guests can enjoy a four-post king-size bed with sweeping views of the lavender fields, a reclaimed wood futon, and a thoughtfully designed kitchen and living area. The suite’s bathroom is adorned with Estonian amethyst geode sinks, imported Italian granite, and a multi-function shower with rainfall, waterfall, and massage jets for ultimate relaxation.
Guests also have private access to the farm, including exclusive use of the gazebo. As this is a premium experience, stays are reserved for adults only, and pets are not permitted.
Nearby, visitors can explore the charming towns of Westerly, Charlestown, Narragansett, and Newport, with Foxwoods Casino just 35 minutes away and Mohegan Sun within an hour’s drive.
Lavender Waves Farm Weddings & Memberships
The farm also serves as an enchanting wedding venue, offering couples the opportunity to celebrate their special day amidst a breathtaking lavender backdrop. Those who opt for a membership package gain exclusive access to the farm’s gardens and animals. Members who purchase large quantities of lavender can enjoy private educational experiences and reserve one to three hours of exclusive time on the farm.
Photographer Lynne, who captured a wedding at the venue, shared her experience:
“As a wedding photographer, Lavender Waves Farm was such a dreamy venue. It is the perfect combination of rustic and charming, and the animals and views can’t be beat! The buildings and grounds were impeccable, and my clients had the perfect day. If you’re looking for a unique and charming location for your wedding, this is the spot!”
A Timeless Labor of Love
Lavender Waves Farm is deeply intertwined with its historical roots. In 2020, the granddaughter of the original Gatewood Farm owners returned to visit the property. Overcome with nostalgia, she reflected on the transformation and the farm’s restored beauty.
Today, visitors can still see the white house on the hill, where the original owners once lived, while Cabrera resides in the former store that once sold the Gatewood family’s produce.
“The unique design of the farm was done to create a special place of beauty, peace, and luxury for visitors,” the official website states. “By being able to sell the lavender as well as offer the opportunity for a limited number of guests to visit the farm, they will experience a working farm and have the ability for the community to have a place of gathering amongst the rolling waves of lavender.”
Through dedication and community support, Dr. Cabrera’s Lavender Waves Farm continues to provide a tranquil escape from the outside world, ensuring that its legacy as a labor of love endures for years to come.
