Koko Crater Botanical Garden
Koko Crater Botanical Garden is a unique 60-acre garden located inside the dramatic Koko Crater on Oahu's southeastern coast. It specializes in drought-tolerant plants such as cacti, succulents, and dryland trees from Hawaii, Africa, Madagascar, and the Americas. A self-guided 2-mile loop trail winds through distinct desert-like gardens, offering visitors a peaceful walk through rare flora in a rugged volcanic setting.
Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Oahu
Part of the Honolulu Botanical Gardens first established in 1958, this 60-acre botanical garden is located in Oahu's Koko Crater. The area's dry, hot climate provides ideal growing conditions for a wide range of dryland plants from Hawaii and elsewhere. Many of these are rare and endangered species.
The Koko Crater Botanical Garden specializes in cacti, aloes, dryland palms, plumeria cultivars, sansevieria, euphorbias, bougainvillea, alluaudias, baobabs and adeniums. In addition to native and naturalized Hawaiian plants, the garden features species from Madagascar, Africa and the Americas.
A 2-mile (3.2 km) loop trail takes visitors on a 1 ½ hour self-guided walk through the garden. But the gardens aren't the only attraction here. You'll also get to experience the natural landscape of Koko Crater, which features many Hawaiian tree species, including the kiawe, wiliwili and koa haole. The wiliwili tree is particularly noteworthy and is one of the species listed under Hawaii's Exceptional Tree Act 105.
Services are limited at Koko Crater, so it's important to come prepared and to be aware of potential dangers. Restrooms, drinking fountains and visitor accommodations are currently unavailable. Due to Koko Crater's dry, hot climate visitors are advised to bring potable water, sunglasses, sunscreen and other such items. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are also recommended, as the trail can be rocky and unstable in parts. Picking any plants in the garden is strictly forbidden. Visitors should also avoid touching, eating or smelling any unfamiliar plants, as many contain allergens that can cause skin irritations, sneezing, inflammation and other discomforts.
Key Features of Koko Crater Botanical Garden
- Location inside a volcanic crater: The 60-acre garden sits within Koko Crater and features dramatic dryland terrain.
- Specialized plant collections: Includes cacti, plumerias, succulents, euphorbias, and rare dryland trees from Hawaii and around the world.
- Self-guided walking trail: A 2-mile loop provides access to all garden sections and scenic crater views.
- Minimal facilities: No restrooms, drinking water, or staff on-site - visitors should come fully prepared.
- Location: Kokonani St, Honolulu, HI 96825
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of plants are at Koko Crater Botanical Garden?
The garden features cacti, aloes, plumeria cultivars, dryland palms, euphorbias, baobabs, and other drought-tolerant species.
Where is the garden located?
It's located inside Koko Crater on Kokonani Street in East Honolulu, near Hawaii Kai.
How long is the walking trail?
The garden has a 2-mile self-guided loop trail that takes about 1.5 hours to complete at a relaxed pace.
Are there restrooms or water fountains?
No, the garden has no visitor facilities. Be sure to bring your own water, sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes.
What is the weather like?
The area is hot and dry. Expect full sun exposure with limited shade, so dress accordingly and stay hydrated.