Hawaiʻi Island gardens: Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden and Liliʻuokalani Gardens

Near Hilo, the Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden at Onomea Bay winds through rainforest to the ocean ($35 adults, daily 10 to 6). In town, Liliʻuokalani Gardens is a free, 24-acre Japanese garden on Banyan Drive, among the largest outside Japan.

• Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden: 27-717 Old Māmalahoa Hwy, Papaʻikou, about 7 miles north of Hilo. Daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., last entry 5 p.m. Adults $35, kamaʻāina $33 (in person), military $28, kids 6 to 12 $25.
• Allow 90 minutes to 2 hours. The entrance boardwalk is steep; wheelchairs and walkers aren't permitted. Bring grippy shoes and repellent.
• Liliʻuokalani Gardens: Banyan Drive on Hilo Bay, free and open 24 hours. Bridges, koi ponds, stone lanterns and a teahouse, dedicated in 1917 to honor Japanese immigrant plantation workers.
• Hilo's rainy climate keeps both gardens lush; bring rain gear.

Sources: Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden: Plan your visit · GoHawaii: Liliʻuokalani Gardens

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.