Oahu’s botanical gardens offer a variety of ways to connect with the island’s natural beauty, and rich history. Enjoy peaceful walks, lei-making, waterfall swims, cultural exhibits, and more.
Botanical Gardens
Various sites
Variety of botanical gardens on Oahu.
Possible charge
Some have admissions & entry fees.
Access varies
Check in advance for accessibility.
Advanced notice
Please give advanced notice to plan.
Self-Guided
City & County gardens self-guided only.
Botanic gardens on Oahu
Some botanical gardens, like Hoomaluhia, allow for self-guided visits. While others, such as Waimea Valley, offer guided tours, historical exhibits, and a waterfall swim.
Other highlights include Lyon Arboretum in Manoa Valley, Foster Botanical Garden near downtown Honolulu, and the scenic gardens at the Dole Plantation. Each offers a unique glimpse of the island’s natural beauty and complements custom tour plans well.
From native Hawaiian plants to rare tropical orchids, Oahu’s gardens provide a relaxing escape and a meaningful way to connect with the island’s incredible biodiversity.
Oahu Nature & Garden Tours
Circle Island Tour
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 1-2 activities + 3-5 photo stops
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Transfer Tour
- Up to 7 people w/ their bags
- Choose any routes or location
- 12 hour custom private tour
About Hoomaluhi & other gardens
Looking to connect more deeply with Hawaii’s land and culture? Oahu’s botanical gardens offer a unique window into the island. Scroll down for tips, highlights, and answers to common questions to help plan your visit.
What are the different botanical gardens on Oahu?
There are so many different botanical gardens on this island, you could explore them for days. But here are a few of our favorites to share with guests:
- Waimea Valley: This is the only guided garden option on the North Shore. It includes cultural exhibits, lei making, historical sites, and a waterfall you can swim in. Admission is required.
- Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden: Nestled in Kaneohe, this peaceful garden allows self-guided tours. Commercial vehicle access is restricted beyond the visitor center, but guests can be dropped off for exploration.
- Lyon Arboretum: Located next to the Manoa Falls trail, the University of Hawaii operates this lush forest garden. It’s self-guided and great for plant lovers and those seeking a shaded valley walk.
- Foster Botanical Garden: Just outside of Downtown Honolulu, this historic garden features tropical and rare plants, including the world-famous corpse flower (when in bloom).
- Dole Plantation Gardens: Though smaller in scale, the garden walkways here include tropical plants and are a fun addition when paired with pineapple-themed activities and North Shore tours.
What makes visiting these botanic gardens special?
What are the hours and best times to visit the gardens?
Do you need reservations for the botanical gardens?
Reservations aren’t typically required, but Waimea Valley offers a separate admission fee and guided cultural programs. For Hoomaluhia, commercial drop-off is permitted at the visitor center only. Other gardens may have nominal entry fees or donation-based access.
All admissions are separate and not included in your tour cost.
Are there rules or restrictions at these gardens?
Similar activities & places
But wait, there’s more. Click the button to discover even more scenic lookouts and botanical gardens.
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Hoomaluhia, Foster & more botanic gardens
Oahu Transfer Tour
- Up to 7 guests w/ luggage
- Choose from any routes
- 6 hour custom private tour
Oahu Specialty Tour
- Around any theme/activity
- Choose any routes or location
- 9 hour custom private tour
Circle Island Tour
- Circle the Koolau Mountains
- 2-3 activities + 4-6 photo stops
- 12 hour custom private tour
Choose Route
Pick from iconic destinations like Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or a majestic Circle Island adventure to perfect your getaway!
Plan By Time
Enjoy a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure. You can go all out with a sunrise-to-sunset tour and make the most of your day.
Tour Locations
Customize your private tour with family favorites, local cuisine, shopping, hiking, and visits to some of the islands best beaches.
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More ways to experience nature on Oahu
Mini Circle Island
- See the North or South Shore
- 1 activity + 2/3 photo stops
- 6 hour custom private tour
Oahu Transfer Tour
- Up to 7 guests w/ luggage
- Choose from any tour route
- 9 hour custom private tour
Oahu Combo Tour
- Up to 7 people w/ their bags
- Choose any routes or location
- 12 hour custom private tour
Not sure which garden fits best? Take our quick quiz or scroll to the footer for links to more relaxing and scenic activities around the island.