Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Oahu
Situated on lush 400 acres (1.6 km²) in Kaneohe, at the foot of the majestic Ko'olau Mountain Range, the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden (see more photos) is a peaceful park that is home to hundreds of plant species, divided into geographical regions as diverse as the Philippines, Africa, Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Tropical America, Polynesia, Melanesia and Hawaii.
The garden was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide flood protection for Kaneohe, and the facilities now include a day use area, campground and a center with a lecture room, exhibition hall, workshop and botanical library.
Head first to the visitors center, where you'll find information on guided tours (every weekend), special events and ethnic exhibits. Ho'omaluhia means "to make a place of peace and tranquillity" in the Hawaiian language. To get a real grasp of the incredible diversity of the flora at Ho'omaluhia, inquire about the nature walks, hiking, crafts and cloud-watching activities on offer, or just while away a quiet afternoon by the 32-acre (0.13 km²) lake (swimming is not permitted in the lake due to water impurities).
When you feel like a stroll, take one of the meandering trails past the lake and streams, over footbridges and alongside verdant meadows, where an endless array of flowers, fruits, bushes, vines and trees await the photographer, naturalist or curious botanist.
Hours:
Open daily from
Closed on Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1)
Admission:
Free.
Guided hikes are offered at 10 am on Saturdays and at 1 pm on Sundays (call 808-233-7323 to register).
Camping is allowed from 9 am Friday through 4 pm Monday. Camping permits are issued via the City and County of Honolulu online camping permit system (visit https://camping.honolulu.gov). Permits must be validated at the Ho'omaluhia Visitor Center.
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden Overview
- Lush botanical garden in Kaneohe, with beautiful views to the Ko'olau Mountains and tropical scenery
- Good place for a stroll in nature and for picture-taking
- Camping is permitted from 9 am on Fridays through 4 pm on Mondays (permit required)
- Guided nature walks available (register in advance)
Vacation Rentals near Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
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