Foster Botanical Garden

Foster Botanical Garden, Oahu

Encompassing almost 14 acres, the Foster Botanical Garden is a serene oasis and home to more than 10,000 species of rare tropical plants from all over the world. The garden is located just a few blocks from the business district in downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu. In 1988, it was placed on the Hawaii Register of Historic Places and because of its beauty, it has served as the setting for several Hollywood films and TV shows in the past.

The Foster Botanical Garden features rare and endangered trees, an orchid, herb and prehistoric garden and even an economic garden, which shows plants that are used for medicine, food, fabrics and dyes.

The garden was created in 1853, when Queen Kalama leased a small area of land to a young German doctor, William Hillebrand. Hillebrand, who was a physician as well as a botanist, built a home together with his wife in the upper terrace area of the garden. The beautiful trees that are still there today were planted by him.

To preserve the garden's plants, visitors are not allowed to pick any part of the plants or remove any plant material from the garden. More than 75,000 visitors come here each year. Guided tours are available on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 10:30 am. Reservations are recommended.

The Foster Botanical Garden is also a favorite place for weddings and photo shootings. A permit is required for weddings and commercial photography.

Key Features of Foster Botanical Garden

• Expansive garden space: Covers nearly 14 acres and showcases over 10,000 species of tropical plants.
• Historic significance: Established in 1853 and listed on the Hawaii Register of Historic Places.
• Diverse plant collections: Includes rare orchids, prehistoric plants, medicinal herbs, palms, and exceptional trees.
• Popular for events: A picturesque venue for weddings and photography (permits required).
• Educational experience: Offers guided tours and labeled gardens that highlight plants' economic, ecological, and cultural uses.
• Location: 180 N Vineyard Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96817

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Reviews and Comments:   This is a very nice botanical garden, the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon stroll. I enjoyed looking at all the different types of plants and the enormous trees. The only disadvantage of this garden I can think of is that it's located on a busy street, so in some corners of the garden the traffic noise is annoying and takes some of the peace away. Other than that it's definitely worth a visit. Erica, Jun 11, 2010

Location: 180 N Vineyard Blvd Honolulu, HI 96817

Beautiful flora

Big trees

Flower sale

Lush vegetation

Foster Botanical Garden gift shop

Ohia Lehua tree

Hawaiian Hibiscus

Picnic area

Palm trees

Yellow Shrimp plant

Variety of palm trees