Ke'anae Arboretum

Keanae Arboretum is a short Road to Hana walk near Piinaau Stream, known for rainbow eucalyptus, taro terraces, labeled tropical trees and a humid East Maui forest setting.

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Ke'anae Arboretum

Ke'anae Arboretum, Maui

Located alongside Pi'ina'au Stream on Maui's Hana Highway, the Ke'anae Aboretum boasts six acres of botanical gardens and forested land. This historic arboretum occupies leveled terraces built hundreds of years ago for the cultivation of taro. Here visitors get an opportunity to check out native and introduced plants in a quiet, natural setting.

The site features a number of different hiking trail options that take visitors on a tour of the lush vegetation found here. Ornamental, fruit and timber trees from the world bear labels with their scientific name, common name and country of origin. More than 150 varieties of tropical plants can be found here, including taro, ginger, papaya and hibiscus. The area's humid, warm climate creates the perfect growing conditions for these spectacular plants.

When visiting the arboretum it's a good idea to bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be quite invasive at certain times of the year. Visitors are prohibited from picking plants and flowers. Accessing any unmarked trail or access road is also prohibited, as many of these are part of private property.

Key Features

Road to Hana arboretum east of mile marker 16
Short walk of about 0.6 mile through a tropical forest setting
Mostly flat asphalt path beside Piinaau Stream
Known for rainbow eucalyptus, bamboo, ginger, papaya, hibiscus and taro
Old Hawaiian taro terraces are part of the arboretum landscape
Trees are labeled with common name, scientific name and country of origin
No restrooms, food stands, guided walks or brochures at the arboretum
Roadside parking is near the entrance sign
The climate is warm, humid and often rainy
A quiet East Maui place for a short walk, plant photos and Road to Hana scenery

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Keanae Arboretum known for rainbow eucalyptus?

Several rainbow eucalyptus trees grow along the walk, and their peeling bark shows bands of green, orange, red and purple. They are among the most photographed trees at the arboretum.

What is the connection between Keanae Arboretum and taro?

The arboretum occupies old leveled terraces that Hawaiians used for taro cultivation. The setting shows how East Maui's streams, rain and fertile valleys supported traditional food plants.

How long is the Keanae Arboretum walk?

The signed walk is about 0.6 mile and is usually described as an easy, relatively flat route. Many visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour here, depending on rain and how often they stop for photos.

What plants are labeled at Keanae Arboretum?

Many trees are marked with their common name, scientific name and country of origin. The collection includes timber, fruiting and ornamental trees from tropical regions around the world.

How is Keanae Arboretum different from paid Road to Hana gardens?

Keanae Arboretum is a short, simple forest walk rather than a landscaped garden with visitor services. Its main appeal is the streamside setting, labeled trees and old taro terraces.