Foster Botanical Garden
(Photo: Daderot.)
Location: 180 N. Vineyard Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96817
Distance from Prince Waikiki: ~14-minute drive
Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Entry Fee: $5 for adults; free for children under 5
Foster Botanical Garden is the oldest of Honolulu’s public botanical gardens, with its roots tracing back to 1853. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this 13.5-acre oasis features ancient trees, tropical plants, and an impressive collection of rare and endangered species from around the world.
Highlights:
- Exceptional Tree Collection: Featuring bo trees, Caribbean royal palms, and tropical almond trees.
- Historic Trees: Some trees were planted over 150 years ago, including a massive cannonball tree.
- Prehistoric Glen: Home to primitive plants from all over the world.
Events and Tours:
- Guided Tours: Free docent-led tours are available at 10:30 am every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Space is limited, so reservations are recommended.
- Concerts & Classes: In addition to a seasonal twilight concert series, Foster Botanical Garden offers a variety of classes throughout the year.
Top Tip:
- Visit early in the morning to beat the heat and enjoy a quieter stroll.
Lili’uokalani Botanical Garden
(Photo: Daderot.)
Location: North Kuakini Street, Honolulu, HI 96817
Distance from Prince Waikiki: ~15-minute drive
Hours: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Lili’uokalani Botanical Garden is small but rich in history and heart. Once part of Queen Lili’uokalani’s private estate, this serene garden honors her legacy and showcases native Hawaiian plants in a peaceful, intimate setting.
Highlights:
- Waterfalls and Streams: A natural stream runs through the park, creating a soothing atmosphere.
- Native Hawaiian Plants: Focused exclusively on flora indigenous to Hawaii.
- Cultural Significance: Learn about the history of Queen Lili’uokalani and her contributions to Hawaii.
Tours and Events:
- Self-Guided History Walks: Explore the garden with interpretive signs that highlight its cultural importance.
- Cultural Workshops: Occasionally offers lei-making, hula classes, and Hawaiian storytelling sessions.
Top Tip:
- It’s a perfect quick stop paired with visits to the nearby Foster Botanical Garden.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
(Photo: Daderot.)
Location: 45-680 Luluku Road, Kāne‘ohe, HI 96744
Distance from Prince Waikiki: ~30-minute drive
Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Meaning “a peaceful refuge” in Hawaiian, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden absolutely lives up to its name. This 400-acre sanctuary sits at the foot of the Ko’olau mountain range and offers dramatic scenery, tranquil lakes, and expansive lawns.
Highlights:
- Tropical Plant Collections: Explore plants from Polynesia, India & Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Tropical America, and Africa.
- Picturesque Lake: Try your hand at catch-and-release fishing for free — no license required.
- Hiking Trails: Wander miles of shaded trails through tropical rainforest landscapes.
Events and Classes:
- Art in the Park: A regular art program where visitors can paint or draw surrounded by nature.
- Family Camping: Ho’omaluhia offers overnight camping by permit, making it a unique way to experience the garden at night!
- Concerts & Classes: In addition to a seasonal twilight concert series, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden offers a variety of classes throughout the year.
Top Tip:
- Stop at the visitor center first for maps and tips on the best walking routes for the day.
Koko Crater Botanical Garden
Location: 7491 Kokonani Street, Honolulu, HI 96825
Distance from Prince Waikiki: ~30-minute drive
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Free
Tucked inside the crater of an extinct volcano, Koko Crater Botanical Garden offers one of Oahu’s most unique landscapes. Instead of a lush rainforest, you’ll find a thriving desert-like ecosystem with fascinating rare and endangered dryland plants.
Highlights:
- Cactus and Succulent Gardens: Rare cacti and succulents flourish in the arid climate.
- African and Hawaiian Collections: View an extensive variety of aloes, baobabs, and native Hawaiian plants.
- Plumeria Grove: Visit during spring and summer for the intoxicating fragrance and vibrant colors of blooming plumerias.
Tours and Events:
- Self-Guided Walking Tours: Enjoy a self-paced 2-mile loop trail that circles the crater floor.
- Photography Workshops: Occasional sessions focused on capturing the dramatic desert beauty.
Top Tip:
- Wear good walking shoes, bring your own water, and plan for limited shade.
Wahiawā Botanical Garden
(Photo: Daderot.)
Location: 1396 California Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786
Distance from Prince Waikiki: ~40-minute drive
Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Wahiawā Botanical Garden sits on a high plateau between the Wai’anae and Ko’olau mountain ranges. Nicknamed the “tropical jewel” of Honolulu’s botanical gardens, the 27-acre garden and forested ravine offers cooler temperatures and a true rainforest feel.
Highlights:
- Tropical Rainforest Flora: Home to a wide variety of ferns, trees, and flowering plants suited to wetter climates.
- Massive Canopy Trees: Towering trees create lush, shaded pathways perfect for quiet walks.
- Plant Collections: The garden’s plants include blue ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.
Events and Classes:
- Guided Tours: Explore the garden at your own pace with a self-guided tour, which is included with your visitor map.
- Concerts & Classes: In addition to a seasonal twilight concert series, Wahiawā Botanical Garden offers a variety of classes throughout the year.
Top Tip:
- Consider bringing a light jacket or umbrella, as Wahiawa can sometimes be misty and cool.
Prince Waikiki: Your Own Private Paradise
So as you contemplate your botanical garden choices and other new outdoor adventures, consider making Honolulu and Prince Waikiki your own private paradise. It’s the promise of an unforgettable journey where island-inspired indulgences, elevated experiences, and exceptional personalized service meet the community aloha spirit of Hawaii. Book your stay today.
