Founder of HawaiiGuide & certified travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Big Island Botanical Gardens
Hamakua Coast Sights
If you're in the "Heavenly Hamakua" region of the Big Island, make some time to stop at one of the most beautiful botanical gardens you'll find anywhere: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
This stunning rainforest preserve is touted as one of the most beautiful locations in Hawaii; a distinction it well deserves.
This garden was a gift to the people of the world from Dan J. Lutkenhouse, a businessman from San Francisco. Currently, over 2,000 species of plants, including a large variety of orchids, heliconia, gingers, bromeliads, and palms are spread throughout the garden. You'll find them accompanied by several natural waterfalls- including Onomea Falls- and a lovely view of Onomea Bay.
With the aid of the map provided by the garden, you will easily spend several hours ambling through the various sections of this magical lush wonderland. Every twist and turn leads to a new plant or tree.
About 1.5 miles down Onomea Scenic Drive, the parking lot for the gardens will be on the mauka side of the road. The admission price is a bit steep, but it is money well spent for the vast natural beauty of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
Take the time to complete the loop out to the Bay Vista Point. The garden has provided several inviting benches with spectacular views of Onomea Bay.
The garden is located off of Highway 19 on the lush Hamakua Coast, 8 1/2 miles north of Hilo.
