The Top 10 Botanical Gardens in Big Island YOU Need to See

Get excited for the Big Island! We’ll explore fantastic gardens with beautiful flowers, green landscapes, and discover interesting plant secrets.

Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens

Our first destination on this enchanting adventure is the spectacular Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Gardens (formerly Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden), a truly tropical, lush paradise located along the scenic Hamakua Coast. This garden is dedicated to the preservation and propagation of endangered Hawaiian plant species. It is a real-life botany and conservation classroom that offers an immersive experience for both children and adults. A stunning collection of over 2,000 plant species from throughout the world, including rare palms, gingers, and vibrant orchids, will greet us as we approach this beautiful botanical garden. The bright colors, tropical blossoms, and towering palms will undoubtedly captivate your senses. The well-kept pathways and informative signs make it a great place for families to bond, create memories, explore, and learn about the beauties of tropical plants as well as the unique ecosystems of Hawaii and beyond. It is a must-see destination if you are interested in supporting conservation efforts while learning about the island’s unique biodiversity.

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last admission is at 4 p.m.
Close during Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, and July 4th.
Adults: $30
Active Military: 25 (requires valid ID)
Hawaii College Student: $25 (requires valid Hi College ID)
Kamaaina: $25 (requires valid Hawaii state ID)
Kama’aina Keiki: $15
Children (6–12): $22
Children (under 6): Free
Parking Area: Available on-site
Located at 27-717 Old Māmalahoa Highway, Pāpa'ikou, Hawaii, along the Hamakua Coast, near Hilo, Hawaii. It is best to take the Scenic Route (Old Mamalahoa Rd.) for easy travel.It is accessible via Highway 19.
+1 808-964-5233

Akatsuka Orchid Gardens

The next stop is the Akatsuka Orchid Gardens, where we will be surrounded by the stunning splendor of orchids. The Big Island is famous for its beautiful orchid varieties, and this garden displays some of the rarest and most gorgeous blossoms. Imagine yourself surrounded by a stunning collection of orchids with different shapes, hues, and sizes. It’s like walking into a floral paradise. The children will have a great time learning about the amazing variety and life cycle of these lovely blooms through educational guided tours and engaging activities.

If you have a love for orchids, the Akatsuka Orchid Gardens in Volcano are a must-see. Witness the stunning beauty of these blooms and perhaps take some home to light up your own living space.

Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Lunch break between 12:00 and 12:30 p.m.
Note: The garden is closed during holidays, like Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, and Memorial Day. You may check their website for the exact dates.
Entrance Fee: Free admission.
Parking is available on-site.
Located at 11-3051 Volcano Rd., Volcano, HI 96785, United States. Accessible via Highway 11.
+1 808-967-8234

World Botanical Gardens and Umauma Falls

Prepare to be fascinated at the World Botanical Gardens, where natural wonders bloom before your eyes. This World Botanical Gardens, located on the Hamakua Coast, offers not only an outstanding array of plants but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in amazing natural environments. Get thrilled to ride on the garden’s Rainbow Walk, a colorful tram that meanders through the lush landscape, beautiful gardens with an extensive collection of plants from throughout the world, ancient lava tubes, and the majestic Umauma Falls, revealing awe-inspiring gems along the way. It’s a complete family trip with breathtaking scenery and fascinating learning experiences.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Self-guided garden tour day pass costs:
Adults (18+ y.o.) - $10 | Teens (13-17 y.o.) - $10 | Child (5 to 12 y.o.) - $5 | Toddler/Infant (below 5 y.o.) - Free
Note: Entrance to the gardens gives an exclusive view of the three-tiered Uma Uma Falls. You can also see the gardens as part of a guided zip line tour.
Parking is available on-site.
The garden is located between Umauma and Hakalau, at the corner of Leopolino Road and Hawaii Belt Road, State Highway 19, 16 miles north of Hilo, on the Island of Hawaii. Near mile marker 16, turn mauka onto Leopolino Road; there will be a big sign indicating the World Botanical Gardens.
+1 808-731-1115

Onomea Bay Trail and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

The Onomea Bay Trail, which is tucked away along the Onomea Bay scenic drive, is a short and easy trail that is well worth a visit. It is a beautiful coastline trail that leads to the amazing Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, where we can find a wide collection of tropical plants. We can stroll through the lush rainforest, admiring the beauty of every creature and plant we come across in this stunning botanical garden. It’s the perfect blend of nature’s treasures in one spectacular experience.

The garden opens daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. While the trails are best hiked in the morning since there are a lot of bugs and mosquitoes in the evening, they can be completed in about 45 minutes.
The trails are free to visit, but you must pay to enter the grounds of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
Limited parking is available near the trailhead.
The trailhead is located along Highway 19, north of Hilo, leading to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
Contact the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden or visit their website to inquire about the Onomea Bay Trail.
+1 808-964-5233

Nani Mau Gardens

Visit Nani Mau Gardens in Hilo, Hawaii, for a peaceful escape from the busy world with your family. This hidden gem, Nani Mau, which translates as “forever beautiful” in Hawaiian, has a calm ambiance, making it ideal for family relaxation. Let’s explore the stunning gardens that feature a 22 acre wide variety of plants, including colorful hibiscus and fragrant plumerias, engage in educational activities, and relax among the lush greenery. Nani Mau Gardens is a beautiful venue for all of your event needs, too. Discover the secrets of this beautiful garden and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere with your family!

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Adults: $10 | Children: $5.00 | Kamaaina: $7.99 | Senior Citizen: $5.00
Ample free parking is available on-site.
Located at 421 Makalika Street, Hilo, Hawaii 96720, USA. Accessible via Highway 11.
+1 808-959-3500

Hawaii Preparatory Academy's Gates

Prepare to travel back in time as we visit the Hawaii Preparatory Academy’s Gates in the historic Waimea Valley. These magnificent iron gates lead to a world of indigenous and native plants, each with its own significance. Take a stroll with the family and learn about the plants’ roles in Hawaiian culture and how they are used in daily life. It’s a one-of-a-kind educational experience that helps us connect with the island’s rich history.

Monday - Friday between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free admission.
Limited parking is available near the gates.
Located in Waimea, Hawaii. Accessible via Highways 19 and 190.
+1 808-885-7321

Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden

The Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, located on the South Kona shore, provides a fascinating trip through Hawaii’s cultural history. The garden is intended to demonstrate Hawaiian ethnobotany, or the study of Hawaiian people and their plants. There are about 200 plant species that flourished on Kona’s traditional farms and native forests before Captain Cook arrived in the late 18th century. Plant labels throughout the garden explain Native Hawaiian’s traditional usage, illustrating their strong connection to the land and nature. It’s an eye-opening event that makes you appreciate the island’s history and traditions even more.

Thursday to Sunday, from 9am to 2pm | Note: The Visit/Tour Request Survey should be completed at least two weeks before the preferred date. Please give extra time in your request for groups hoping to be scheduled during off days so that a staff member can accommodate your visit.
Free admission (accepting donations)
Limited parking is available on site.
Located at 82-6160 Mamalahoa Hwy., Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704, and accessible via Highway 11.
If you're passing by, you may also take a Kona coffee plantation tour at the Kona coffee living history farm across the street.
+1 808-323-3318 or (808) 346-890

Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens

The Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. It is a non-profit botanical garden on the grounds of the Kona Educational Foundation Center in Kona, Hawaii. The well-kept gardens have a rich flora collection, including orchids, ferns, and native Hawaiian plants. It’s a peaceful haven where families may explore at their leisure and take in the natural splendor.

Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Limited parking is available on-site.
Located at 76-6280 Kuakini Hwy., Kona Outdoor Circle Educational Center, Hilo, Hawaii. Accessible via Highway 200.
+1 808-329-7286

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens

The Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens is the place to go for a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the fun of a zoo with the attraction of a botanical garden. It’s a fun place for families to explore the lush gardens, spot beautiful plants, colorful parrots, and other wildlife, and learn about the zoo’s work to save endangered species in Hawaii. It’s an excellent opportunity for the kids to interact with nature and learn about the delicate balance of flora and fauna in the island’s ecology.

Open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and the first Thursday of each month.
Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
Ample parking is available on-site.
Located at 800 Stainback Highway, Hilo, Hawaii 96720. Accessible via Highway 11.
+1 808-959-7224

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary

Our final destination takes us to the Paleaku Gardens, a 7-acre tropical botanical garden with many native Hawaiian plants and trees. It welcomes individuals and groups to enjoy the tranquil beauty of this one-of-a-kind botanical setting. Its purpose is to provide a safe haven for anyone seeking to move toward peace and harmony.

Throughout the gardens, there are multi-denominational statues and shrines that depict the beauty of all the world’s cultural and spiritual traditions. You can visit greenhouses that feature a wide variety of tropical plants and orchids. Walk paths that go across scenic landscapes and private sitting areas. Check this out and discover the world’s first galaxy garden!

Tuesday–Saturday between 9:00 and 4:00 p.m.
Note: Paleaku Gardens is closed on Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year's Day.
Adult Day Pass: $10 | Kama’aina, Military, and Senior (65): $7 | Children (6–12 yrs.): $3 | Children (under 6): Free
Limited parking is available near the entrance of the gardens.
Paleaku Gardens are located at 83-5401 Painted Church Rd., Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704, United States, and are accessible via Highway 11.
It can be visited as part of a self-guided tour. Reservations for guided tours are available upon request.
+1 808-328-8084

The Big Island of Hawaii is a lovely paradise for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. So pack your sense of wonder and embark on a journey to discover the Big Island’s botanical treasures. These gardens will not only cultivate a deeper appreciation for nature but also create precious memories for your family that will last a lifetime.

Map of the Botanical Gardens

Prepare to be stunned as you discover the wonderful world of the botanical gardens on the Big Island. Allow this interactive map to serve as a visual guide, revealing the paths, attractions, and beautiful landscapes that make each garden a haven for nature lovers, families, and curious visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Big Island Botanical Gardens?

The Big Island Botanical Gardens are stunning horticultural havens on Hawaii’s Big Island. These gardens have a diverse mix of local and exotic plant species, offering visitors a captivating experience amidst lush landscapes and vibrant blossoms. Each garden offers unique attractions and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural splendor of the island.

How many Botanical Gardens are there on the Big Island, Hawaii?

There are various wonderful botanical gardens on the Big Island for visitors to explore. While the number may fluctuate over time due to the addition of new gardens or changes to existing ones, there are usually roughly ten significant botanical gardens spread over the island. Each garden has its own unique features and attractions, catering to nature lovers, families, and adventurous explorers.

Are the Big Island Botanical Gardens suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! The Big Island Botanical Gardens is a family-friendly place with activities for guests of all ages, especially children. These gardens, with informative signage, interactive exhibits, and educational activities, are ideal for teaching children about the wide world of plants, local ecosystems, and conservation efforts. Many gardens also include well-kept pathways and tram rides, allowing families to explore together.

Can I buy plants at the Botanical Gardens?

Yes, some Big Island Botanical Gardens sell plants, including native species and exotic blooms. Purchasing plants from these gardens is a great way to bring some of the island’s natural beauty home with you. Keep in mind that specific rules may apply when exporting plants from the Big Island to other places in order to avoid the spread of invasive species.

Are there guided tours available at the Big Island Botanical Gardens?

Yes, the majority of the Big Island’s botanical gardens include knowledgeable staff members or volunteers to lead guided tours. Guided tours offer excellent insights into the unique characteristics, history, and significance of the plants in the gardens. It’s an enlightening experience that gives visitors a better grasp of the island’s rich floral heritage. If you prefer to explore on your own, many gardens include maps and explanatory booklets to help you navigate the grounds.