Limahuli Garden
Limahuli Garden is a breathtaking botanical preserve nestled in Kauai's lush north shore valley of Haena. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the garden offers visitors access to 17 acres of tropical flora, ancient lava terraces, and stunning ocean and mountain views. It's a sacred place where native Hawaiian culture, biodiversity, and ecological restoration thrive side by side.
Limahuli Garden, Kauai
Located in Haena on the north shore of Kauai, the Limahuli Garden is set in a lush tropical valley, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Makana Mountain. It extends for over 1,000 acres (4 km²) of tropical rainforest and covers three distinct ecological zones. Seventeen acres are available to the public. The remaining acres are a protected nature preserve. A 3/4 mile (1.2 km) long loop trail leads through the garden. It has some steep areas.
Guided or self-guided tours examine the lava rock terraces built by ancient Hawaiians to cultivate taro, an important food crop originally introduced by the Polynesians. The Limahuli Garden is dedicated to the preservation of native Hawaiian culture and plants. It is also the location of ongoing research and educational programs.
Taro and other plants make up the garden's collection. There is a plantation-era garden and examples of invasive species of plants introduced by modern man. The Limahuli Garden was chosen by the American Horticultural Society as the best natural botanical garden in the United States.
Online reservations are strongly encouraged to ensure parking (if you are driving). Guided tours require advanced reservations. Garden visitors are encouraged to use the North Shore Shuttle service (more info is available on gohaena.com). Reservations for self-guided tours are NOT required for visitors arriving by shuttle. The garden also offers a special discount for North Shore Shuttle users.
Key Features of Limahuli Garden
- Over 1,000 acres of protected rainforest spanning three ecological zones
- 17-acre public garden with a ¾ mile interpretive trail through native plants and lava terraces
- Preserves ancient Hawaiian agricultural practices like terraced taro cultivation
- Home to rare and endangered native plants of Hawaii and Polynesian-introduced species
- Named best natural botanical garden in the U.S. by the American Horticultural Society
| |||||||
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Limahuli Garden?
It features native Hawaiian plants, ancient lava terraces, and is set in a breathtaking rainforest valley overlooking the ocean and Makana Mountain.
Do I need a reservation to visit?
Reservations are strongly recommended for those driving. Walk-ins are accepted for visitors arriving by shuttle.
How long is the garden trail?
The self-guided trail is approximately ¾ mile long and includes some steep terrain, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a relaxed pace.
Is there a shuttle service available?
Yes, the North Shore Shuttle offers a convenient way to reach the garden, and shuttle users receive a discount on admission.
Is the garden part of a conservation effort?
Yes. Limahuli Garden is committed to native species preservation and sustainable land practices, serving as both a public garden and scientific conservation site.