If you’re looking for a place that feels like an entirely different world, look no further than Hawaii. The climate here is unlike any other state in America and the flora reflects this with thousands of plants native only to these islands – not even remotely close! You have to visit some of these botanical gardens when you’re in Hawaii!
Hawaii is a magical place where you can explore thousands of years worth of culture and nature in one state. The people here have been so welcoming, making it easy to get lost exploring their beautiful island paradise all day long!
Despite having so many gorgeous gardens individually, we’ve picked out some botanical gems among them because they are simply amazing places full of life where visitors can get lost exploring nature or taking pictures right outside their doorsteps.
Kaua’i
1. Allerton Garden
The Allerton Garden on the island of Kauai in Hawaii is different from other gardens because it is a living garden. It has been designed to look like a wild jungle, with pathways that wind through the vegetation. There are several different areas in the garden, each with its character. The garden covers over sixty acres, which is quite large compared to most gardens.
There are many exciting activities to do at the Allerton Garden. One popular activity is hiking through jungle-like paths. There are also beautiful spots to relax and take in the scenery. One beautiful spot in the garden maze. It’s great for those who love a good challenge, and there’s no one better to take on the maze with than your friends.
If you’re looking for something a little more lowkey, head to the greenhouse where you can learn about different types of plants. And if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the aviary where you can see some beautiful birds up close. The garden is also home to a variety of animals, including tropical birds and monkeys. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or drink at the garden cafe.
The Allerton Garden is a beautiful and unique place to visit. It’s worth checking out if you’re in the area!
2. Limahuli Garden and Preserve
If you’re looking for an incredible garden getaway that’s different from any other, the Limahuli Garden and Preserve on the Hawaiian island of Kaua’i is a must-see. With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Mount Na Pali, this preserve is home to some of the most unique plant life in the world.
The garden was established over 45 years ago by Dr. Wilfred Avery, who was passionate about conservation and preserving Hawaii’s natural beauty. Today, it spans over 500 acres and features nine different gardens, each with its unique climate and landscape. There’s also a nature center where you can learn about the preserve’s history and ecology, as well as a botanical library where you can study Hawaii’s rare plants.
One of the coolest things about Limahuli Garden is that you can explore it in a variety of ways. You can wander through the gardens at your own pace, or join one of the guided tours to learn more about the plants and their traditional uses. There’s also an exciting range of activities available for visitors, from hiking and swimming to bird watching.
No matter what you choose to do, a visit to the Limahuli Garden and Preserve is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
3. Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens
The Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens are a wonderful place to visit if you’re looking for something different from the typical tourist destinations in Hawaii. Located on the north shore of Kauai, these gardens occupy over 120 acres of land and showcase a wide variety of plants and trees from all over the world.
One of the unique things about these gardens is that they feature both wet and dry tropical vegetation, which is a rarity in Hawaii. The gardens also contain a large number of rare plants, including some that are found nowhere else in the world. If you’re interested in plant life, this is the place to go!
In addition to the beautiful gardens, Na Aina Kai also contains several interesting historical features. One of the most popular is the ancient Hawaiian fishpond, which was built over 1,000 years ago. There’s also a small museum on the property that showcases Kauai’s history.
If you’re looking for something to do, Na Aina Kai has plenty of options. You can explore the gardens on foot or take a guided tour. There are also several hiking trails on the property, which offer great views of Kauai’s coast. And if you want to get in the water, there’s a nice beach next to the gardens where you can swim, surf, or kayak.
4. Smith’s Tropical Paradise
Smith’s Tropical Paradise is one of the most unique and exciting gardens in Hawaii. It’s different from all the other botanical gardens because it has a combination of both tropical and desert plants. The garden was originally founded by Robert Smith, who was a horticulturist and an agricultural scientist. He was also the president of the Hawaiian Sugar Planters Association. The garden spans over 38 acres and has a variety of different areas to explore, each with its unique features and history.
One of the most popular attractions at Smith’s Tropical Paradise is the banyan tree. This tree is massive – it covers an entire acre! And it’s not just big, it’s also beautiful. The leaves are huge and dark green, and the branches spread out like a canopy. It’s worth checking out.
Another popular spot in the garden is the rainforest. This section of the garden is home to all sorts of different species of plants and animals, including orchids, spiders, and frogs. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for a bit of adventure.
If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, you can check out the butterfly garden. This area is full of beautiful flowers and butterflies. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing under the sun.
And if that’s not enough, Smith’s Tropical Paradise also has a nature trail, a children’s play area, and even a petting zoo. There’s something for everyone in this garden, so be sure to check it out when you’re in Hawaii.
5. Princeville Botanical Gardens
The Princeville Botanical Gardens is a stunning garden located in the town of Princeville, on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii. It’s different from most gardens because it’s located on a former plantation site that has been restored and features many native plants as well as exotics. The garden is also home to a large collection of bromeliads, which are tropical plants with colorful flowers.
The history of the Princeville Botanical Gardens begins in the early 1800s when Kauai was still part of the Kingdom of Hawaii. At that time, the area now known as Princeville was a sugar plantation. The plantation closed down in the 1970s, and the land sat unused for many years. In 1998, a group of residents formed the Princeville Botanical Gardens Association, Inc. and began restoring the land.
The Princeville Botanical Gardens feature a variety of different gardens, including a rose garden, a herb garden, a bamboo garden, and a waterfall garden. There’s also a pavilion where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch. The gardens are open every day from 9 am to 4 pm, and admission is free.
There are many exciting activities to do at the Princeville Botanical Gardens. One popular activity is hiking the trails that wind through the gardens. There are also two playgrounds for children and a gazebo where visitors can relax and enjoy the view.
6. National Tropical Botanical Garden
The National Tropical Botanical Garden is located in Koloa, Hawaii on the island of Kauai. It was founded in 1964 as the first nonprofit botanical garden in the United States. The Garden spans over 2,000 acres and includes 32 different gardens and preserves. Each garden has its unique history and features.
One of the most popular areas of the National Tropical Botanical Garden is the Allerton Garden. This area was once a private estate used by Robert Allerton and his family. The gardens are now open to the public and include a variety of different plants and trees. There is also a stone Japanese tea house that can be rented for special events.
If you’re looking for something more exciting, check out the McBryde Garden. This garden is home to the world’s largest collection of rare and endangered plants. There are also many different activities available, including nature walks, bike tours, and tram rides.
Whatever your interests may be, the National Tropical Botanical Garden has something for you. So if you’re looking for a unique and exciting experience, be sure to check out this amazing garden.
Maui
7. Garden of Eden Arboretum
The Garden of Eden Arboretum is a tropical paradise located in Wahiawa, Hawaii. The garden is different from other botanical gardens because it encompasses a wide variety of ecosystems, featuring everything from rainforests to deserts. The arboretum is also home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals.
The Garden of Eden Arboretum was founded in 1977 by Dr. John R. Turner. Turner was a world-renowned botanist and horticulturist who had a passion for preserving the natural beauty of Hawaii. The arboretum covers over 400 acres and features more than 7,000 types of plants and trees from all over the world.
One of the most popular attractions at the Garden of Eden Arboretum is the Bamboo Forest. This lush forest is home to more than 100 different species of bamboo, including some of the largest bamboo plants in the world. The garden also features a two-acre rainforest, a desert oasis, and a variety of gardens and ponds.
The Garden of Eden Arboretum activities is plenty varied. You can go for a stroll, take in the natural beauty of the gardens, snap some photos, or enjoy a picnic lunch in the park-like setting. If you’re looking for something more active, there are also plenty of things to do. The arboretum has a playground, a walking/running track, and bike trails.
There’s also an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and other events throughout the year. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to spend some time simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of this special place.
8. McBryde Garden
The McBryde Garden is located in the Waihee Valley on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It was created in 1915 by Dr. William McBryde, a botanist who was employed by the US Department of Agriculture. The garden is different from most other gardens because it is based on a working farm. It covers over 100 acres and includes several different gardens, each with its unique features.
One of the most popular attractions at the McBryde Garden is the bamboo forest. This section of the garden contains more than 30 acres of bamboo plants, making it one of the largest collections in the world. There are also several miles of walking trails that wind through the gardens, providing visitors with a beautiful and peaceful place to relax.
The McBryde Garden is also home to several exciting activities. The garden hosts many special events throughout the year, including an annual butterfly release and a hula contest. It is also the location for the Maui Film Festival, which takes place each summer. Visitors to the garden can enjoy watching films under the stars while surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers.
9. Kahanu Garden
The Kahanu Garden is located in Hana, Maui, Hawaii. It has a rich history that can be traced back to the early 1500s. The garden was created by the Piilani family, and it is now part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. The garden covers 14 acres and contains a variety of different plants and trees from all over the world.
One of the most unique aspects of the Kahanu Garden is that it features many different ecosystems. This means that visitors can see everything from rainforests to coral reefs in one place. The garden is also home to a wide variety of animals, including endangered species like the Hawaiian hawk and the hoary bat.
There are several different activities that visitors can enjoy at the Kahanu Garden. One popular activity is walking through the garden and exploring all of its different areas. Many trails wind through the garden, making it perfect for a nature hike.
Another popular activity is snorkeling in the garden’s coral reef. The reef is home to a variety of colorful fish, and it’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for some underwater adventure. The garden also features many other attractions, including a museum, a gift shop, and a hula pavilion.
If you’re looking for an exciting and unique experience, be sure to visit the Kahanu Garden in Hana, Maui. It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii, and it’s also home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Kaneohe
10. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
The Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is a beautiful place located in Kaneohe, Hawaii. The garden was established in 1972 as a place to promote and display the beauty of tropical plants. The garden spans over 400 acres and contains a variety of different gardens and landscapes. Some of the features of the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden include an arboretum, an aquatic garden, a hibiscus garden, and a bamboo forest.
The garden is also home to a variety of different animals, including peacocks, ducks, and turtles. When you visit the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. One of our favorite things to do is take a nature walk around the gardens. The paths are well-maintained and easy to follow, so you can enjoy the beauty of the plants and flowers.
If you’re looking for something more enthralling, there’s also a large lake to see. And if you need a break from the sun, the garden has several shaded areas where you can relax. So no matter what you’re interested in, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden has something for you! We highly recommend visiting this wonderful garden if you’re ever in the area!
Oahu
11. Waimea Valley
Are you looking for a place to experience Hawaii’s natural beauty? Waimea Valley may be just the place for you! This stunning nature park is located on the North Shore of Oahu and is filled with everything from waterfalls and dense jungle to historical sites and lush gardens. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Waimea Valley so special.
One of the things that set Waimea Valley apart from other Hawaiian attractions is its history. The valley was first settled by the ancient Hawaiians, who used it as a religious and spiritual center. Over time, the land was cultivated and used for farming, and many of the traditional Hawaiian structures, such as heiaus (temples) and loi (irrigation systems), can still be seen in the park today.
In addition to its history, Waimea Valley is also known for its stunning natural features. The valley is home to several impressive waterfalls, including Sacred Falls and Waimea Falls. Visitors can also explore the dense jungle that covers the valley floor or wander through one of the many gardens that are spread throughout the park. There’s even a botanical garden that specializes in native Hawaiian plants!
If all of that wasn’t enough, Waimea Valley also offers plenty of exciting activities for you to enjoy. You can go hiking or biking on the many trails that wind through the park, take a swim in the river or one of the swimming pools, or go paddleboarding or kayaking on the Waimea River. There’s also a zip line and a ropes course for those looking for a more adventure-filled visit!
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable Hawaiian experience, be sure to check out Waimea Valley!
12. Foster Botanical Garden
The Foster Botanical Garden is a 14 acre botanical garden in Honolulu, Hawaii. It’s the oldest and largest public garden in the state and features a variety of plants from all over the world. The garden has been open to the public since 1853 and is home to many interesting historical landmarks.
One of the coolest things about the Foster Botanical Garden is its variety of plants. You can find everything from tropical flowers to towering palm trees in the gardens. There’s also a section with cactus plants, which is perfect if you’re looking to get your Instagram Snapchat story updated.
Another neat thing about the garden is its history. If you wander through the right parts, you’ll stumble on some of the oldest buildings in Honolulu. One such landmark is the brick-walled garden, which was built in 1853. You can also find the bandstand, which was constructed in 1878.
If you’re looking for some excitement, the Foster Botanical Garden is the place to go. There are a ton of activities to keep you busy, from walking through the gardens to taking a guided tour. Kids will love checking out the Children’s Garden, which has a bunch of fun activities designed just for them. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even check out the haunted house!
13. Wahiawā Botanical Garden
The Wahiawā Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to visit, especially if you’re looking for someplace different to go in Hawaii. It’s located right outside of Honolulu on the island of Oahu, and it’s home to a wide variety of plants and flowers from all over the world. One of the things that make the Wahiawā Botanical Garden unique is that it was created specifically as a research garden. There are several different areas where you can explore, each with its unique features and history.
The Wahiawā Botanical Garden covers about sixty acres, making it one of the largest botanical gardens in the United States. It has everything from an arboretum (a garden with all different types of trees) to a bonsai garden (a garden with miniature trees). There’s also a rose garden, a lily pond, and even a section where you can see some of Hawaii’s native plants
If you’re looking for something to do, the Wahiawā Botanical Garden offers plenty of activities. You can take a guided tour, go for a walk, or have a picnic in one of the gardens. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb up to the top of Diamond Head Crater!
14. Koko Crater Botanical Garden
The Koko Crater Botanical Garden is a beautiful and unique garden located in Hawaii. What makes it different from other gardens is that it’s built on the side of a volcano! The garden was created in the early 1900s by Dr. William Hillebrand, a botanist who was also one of the founders of the University of Hawaii. The garden was originally much smaller than it is today, but it has been gradually expanded over the years. It now covers nearly 100 acres and includes a variety of different habitats, from rainforest to desert.
One of the highlights of the Koko Crater Botanical Garden is its orchid collection. More than 1,000 different orchids are growing in the garden, including some very rare species. If you’re a fan of orchids, this is the place to visit!
Other interesting features of the garden include its bamboo forest, waterfall, and cactus garden. Several hiking trails wind their way through the garden, and it’s a great place to go birdwatching.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, be sure to add the Koko Crater Botanical Garden to your itinerary!
15. Moanalua Gardens
If you’re looking for a serene and beautiful garden to spend an afternoon in, the Moanalua Gardens in Hawaii are perfect. This garden is different from most others because it’s made up of three gardens: the Hau Tree Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Palm Garden. Each one of these gardens is stunning in its way, with unique features and history.
The Hau Tree Garden is perhaps the most well-known part of the Moanalua Gardens. This garden was named after the hau tree, which is a native Hawaiian tree that can grow up to 150 feet tall. The garden is filled with these trees, as well as other types of plants and flowers that have been brought over from all over the world. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and it’s worth a visit.
If you’re looking for a bit of culture, the Japanese Garden is perfect for you. This garden was designed by Japanese master gardener Seichi Yoneda, and it features traditional Japanese landscaping techniques. It’s home to a variety of different plants and trees, as well as a Koi pond and bridges. It’s worth checking out if you’re interested in Japanese culture.
Last but not least, the Palm Garden is a must-see for anyone visiting the Moanalua Gardens. This garden is home to over 2,000 palm trees from all over the world. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and it’s perfect for a quiet stroll.
In addition to these three gardens, the Moanalua Gardens also features a children’s playground, a bandstand, and a variety of walking paths. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon, whether you’re looking for some peace and relaxation or some excitement and adventure. Be sure to check out the Moanalua Gardens when you’re in Hawaii!
16. Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden
The Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden is a must-see spot if you are ever in Hawaii. The garden is located in Hilo on the Big Island and covers over 30 acres of land. It was founded by Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1876 and is now home to more than 2,000 species of plants from all over the world.
One of the things that make the Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden so special is its location. The garden is situated on the slopes of Mauna Loa, which means that visitors can enjoy stunning views of both the ocean and the volcano while they are there.
Another unique feature of the garden is its history. Queen Liliʻuokalani was an avid gardener and she used the garden as a place to cultivate plants from all over the world. Today, the garden is still home to many rare and exotic plants.
If you’re looking for a fun and interesting place to spend an afternoon, the Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden is a great option. There are plenty of things to do at the garden, including walking through the beautiful gardens, taking a nature hike, or renting a paddleboat to paddle around the ponds. You can also visit the on-site museum, which showcases Hawaiian culture and history.
17. Mānoa Heritage Center
The Mānoa Heritage Center is a unique attraction in Hawaii. Unlike other museums or gardens, the Heritage Center is spread out over several acres of land, with different spots containing different attractions. There’s the main garden, which features beautiful ponds, streams, and waterfalls; a traditional Hawaiian village, complete with huts and a lū’au pit; and an aviary, where you can see exotic birds up close.
The Heritage Center is also home to some exciting activities. You can go hiking or biking on the trails that wind through the property or take a kayak out on the ponds. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try out ziplining through the trees!
So if you’re looking for a unique and exciting attraction in Hawaii, be sure to check out the Mānoa Heritage Center.
18. Halawa Xeriscape Garden
The Halawa Xeriscape Garden is one of the most unique and exciting places in Hawaii. It’s different than any other garden in the state because it’s focused on conserving water. The history of the garden dates back to when the city of Honolulu was looking for ways to reduce its water consumption. So, they turned to xeriscape- a landscaping method that uses plants that don’t need much water.
The Halawa Xeriscape Garden is made up of several different gardens, each with its unique features. There’s the Japanese garden, which has a beautiful koi pond and traditional Japanese architecture. Then there’s the cactus garden, which has over 250 different types of cacti! Our favorite is the fruit garden, which has every type of fruit tree you can imagine.
The Halawa Xeriscape Garden is a great place to spend a day with the family. There’s so much to see and do, and it’s all free! You can explore the different gardens, go for a walk around the lake, or have a picnic in the park. The garden is also home to some exciting events throughout the year. They host an annual butterfly release, a pumpkin patch in the fall, and a Christmas tree sale in the winter.
So if you’re looking for a unique and exciting destination in Hawaii, be sure to check out the Halawa Xeriscape Garden!
19. Lyon Arboretum
As you walk through the Lyon Arboretum in Hawaii, the first thing you’ll notice is how different it is from any other botanical garden you’ve been to. Established in 1918, it’s one of the oldest and largest arboretums in the United States, with over 190 acres of gardens, nature trails, and wildlife habitats to explore. It’s also home to some of the most diverse plant life in the world, including more than 5,000 species of tropical plants and trees from all over the planet.
One of the things that make Lyon Arboretum so unique is its history. It was originally founded as a research facility for the University of Hawaii, and many of its current features were designed by world-renowned landscape architects.
Today, the arboretum is open to the public and offers a variety of exciting activities, including guided nature walks, educational programs for kids, and special events throughout the year. There’s also a café on-site where you can relax and take in the beauty of the gardens.
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting place to visit in Hawaii, be sure to check out Lyon Arboretum. With its beautiful gardens, interesting history, and diverse plant life, it’s worth a visit!
Hawaii
20. Botanical World Adventures
Botanical World Adventures is a garden located in the town of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. It occupies over thirty acres and is home to a vast array of different plants and trees from all over the world. The garden has been open to the public since 1997, and it offers a variety of different attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the unique aspects of Botanical World Adventures is its history. The garden was founded by two brothers, both of whom were botanists. They traveled the world collecting plant specimens, which they then displayed in their garden. Over time, the collection grew and grew, until it became one of the largest botanical gardens in the world.
Today, Botanical World Adventures is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its wide range of attractions. There are a variety of different gardens to explore, each with its unique theme. The Japanese Garden, for example, is home to a large number of bonsai trees, while the Orchid Garden features over two thousand different orchid species.
There are also many exciting activities available at Botanical World Adventures. You can go zip lining through the trees, or take a hike along with one of the garden’s many nature trails. There is also a playground and petting zoo for children, as well as a cafe where visitors can enjoy some delicious Hawaiian cuisine.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable day out in Hawaii, then be sure to visit Botanical World Adventures. With its vast array of gardens and activities, there’s something for everyone here. So come and explore the amazing world of plants and trees at this one-of-a-kind garden!
21. Moir Garden
The Moir Garden is a beautiful place located in the town of Hilo, on the island of Hawaii. The garden was founded in 1915 by sisters Lillian and Agnes Moir and is now one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Big Island.
What makes the Moir Garden unique is its location. Unlike most gardens, which are located in valleys or on hillsides, the Moir Garden occupies a flat plain at the edge of Hilo Bay. This allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains.
The garden is also home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, including several rare and endangered species. Visitors can stroll through meandering paths, stopping to admire the blooms and listen to the birdsong.
The garden is spread out over 5 acres and includes a variety of different gardens and areas, each with its unique features. There’s the Japanese Garden, with its bonsai trees and koi pond, the English Rose Garden, and the Hawaiian Rainforest, just to name a few.
The Moir Garden is a great place for a family outing. There are plenty of things to do, including picnicking, hiking, and playing in the children’s playground. The garden is also home to the Pacific Tsunami Museum, which tells the story of the devastating tsunami that struck Hawaii in 1946.
So if you’re looking for a beautiful place to visit in Hawaii, be sure to check out the Moir Garden.
22. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is located in the town of Hilo on the island of Hawaii. It is a beautiful place to visit, with different gardens and areas to explore. The garden covers 120 acres and includes over 2,000 species of plants from all over the world.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is one of the most visited tourist attractions on the Big Island. It’s located in Hilo and spans over 150 acres of gardens, forests, and ponds. The garden was founded in 1988 by Dr. Wilfred Kawanabe and his wife, Lucille. Dr. Kawanabe was a world-renowned botanist who dedicated his life to preserving Hawaii’s tropical plants.
One of the unique features of this garden is the Banyan Tree Maze. This maze was created by planting 100 banyan trees in a circular pattern. It is now a popular spot for visitors to explore.
Another interesting feature of the garden is the Rainbow Falls. This waterfall is part of the Wailuku River, which runs through the garden. The falls are 80 feet high and can be seen from several points in the garden.
There are also several areas where visitors can walk or hike. The gardens are beautiful and there are many interesting things to see and learn about.
