Quick Links

The Hawaiian Islands are home to a wide range of species of plants. Visitors can see some of the best the island has to offer at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Located on the edge of the Big Island, this garden is home to over 2,000 species of plants, many of which are native to Hawaii. Tourists can take self-guided tours of the gardens. They can also participate in guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. The gardens host a variety of events throughout the year, making it a great place to learn about Hawaiian culture and history. With so much to see, this is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in plants and gardening.

How To Reach Hawaii's Tropical Botanical Garden

The Big Island's botanical garden is located in the town of Hilo, along the island's western shore. It is easily accessible from Hilo city, which is about 17 miles south of the Kona Airport. From Hilo, visitors should take Highway 11 north for 14 miles to Leilani Avenue/Route 11. They need to then turn right and drive 0.8 miles to the park’s entrance. The garden is on the right side of the road. It’s open on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. On weekends, it opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m.

Related: 10 Indisputable Reasons You Should Be In Hawaii Right Now

A bit of history: Hawaii's Big Island Botanical Garden opened in 1915. It is a non-profit organization now run by volunteers. Planting began in 1912 when Hilo residents donated flower seeds from Japan, introduced them to the island soil, and then re-planted them at a nearby area later known as "The Gardens of Eden." Since then, the Tropical Botanical Garden has grown to cover 23 acres.

The Different Types Of Plants At The Tropical Botanical Garden

The Big Island Botanical Garden is one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can see a variety of different types of plants, including palms, ferns, orchids, and bromeliads. The garden also has a number of waterfalls and ponds that make it a beautiful place to relax and take in the scenery. Walking through the garden, you'll be able to see all sorts of different plants, from towering trees to delicate flowers. You can also learn about the different types of plants and their importance to Hawaii's ecosystem.

Related: 10 Reasons Why Now Is The Perfect Time to Visit Hawaii

One of the more unusual plants in the garden is the 'aki 'aki tree that was planted from a flower pot. Now, it has grown into a 24-foot tree and is producing large berries. A time capsule, which is scheduled to be opened in 100 years, contains seeds from this tree.

Benefits Of Visiting Hawaii's Tropical Botanical Garden

Tourists flock to gorgeous cities to enjoy striking natural wonders and awe-inspiring vistas. But sometimes people forget what they are lucky to have in their backyard, like Hawaii's Tropical Botanical Garden.

Vacationers can visit the garden year-round and enjoy its pristine beauty any time during the day. The summer months from May through October are considered the "prime" season when most of the plants are in full bloom. The Garden is also home to the state's largest selection of extremely rare and endangered native Hawaiian plants.

So, if visitors are looking for a cool place to see beautiful gardens with loved ones, Hawaii's Tropical Botanical Garden is the right destination. Guests can enjoy the lush vegetation under the shade of gigantic trees that will calm them as they take a walk through the garden's meandering trails, check out flowers of all kinds, and have a picnic lunch.

Tips On What To Carry When Visiting Hawaii's Tropical Botanical Garden

As visitors explore the Hawaiian Tropical Botanical Garden, here are a few things to pack for their vacation.

  • Bug spray: With over 100 different species of colorful flowers blooming to life all around, mosquitoes are bound to be out in full force. Bug Spray will serve as a barrier to keep them at bay.
  • Water bottle: Being somewhere tropical, vacationers should definitely drink plenty of water throughout the day. Though it is not necessary, they don't want to forget their water bottle as an empty stomach can cause dehydration and lead to several health problems.
  • Small pocket camera: When taking photos of everything in sight, it's important that vacationers have a small pocket camera with them to capture those moments that may take their breath away
  • Pens: Soaking up all the tropical sun, plants, and flowers will bring out a visitor’s artistic side. The many flowers they have in the garden are great to draw or paint with. Another benefit of having a pocket pen is that tourists can jot down thoughts and ideas as they explore the garden.

The botanical garden on the Big Island of Hawaii is a must-see for anyone interested in tropical plants. With a wide variety of plant life to see, it's a great place to learn about the different types of plants that grow in Hawaii. And with plenty of free parking and an on-site cafe, it's easy to spend an entire day exploring the garden.