Guided Garden Tours

The Allerton Garden, once a private estate, was shaped in the 1930s by Robert Allerton and his adopted son, John Gregg Allerton. They transformed the lush valley into a world-class landscape, combining tropical plants, water features, and artistic landscape architecture. Their garden design incorporated exotic palms, heliconias, and dramatic ficus trees—some of which famously appeared in films like Jurassic Park. Today, the Allerton Garden is celebrated for its artistic vision and serene beauty.

Next door, the McBryde Garden focuses on conservation and scientific research. Originally known as the Lawai Garden, it was renamed after the McBryde family, who once owned the land. It became the first garden established by the NTBG and now serves as a vital center for plant conservation. It contains the largest collection of native Hawaiian plants in existence, as well as extensive ethnobotanical plantings that tell the story of Hawaii’s relationship with its environment. Visitors can see rare endangered plants being cultivated and learn about the urgent efforts to protect Hawaii’s native flora from threats like invasive species and climate change.

Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, located in Kilauea on Kauai’s North Shore, is a 240-acre garden known for its diverse tropical landscapes and one of the largest collections of bronze sculptures in the U.S. Originally developed in 1982 by Joyce and Ed Doty and opened to the public in 1999, the garden features 13 themed areas including a children’s garden with interactive elements and an International Desert Garden. Guided tours are offered by reservation from Tuesday to Friday, allowing visitors to explore its unique blend of art, horticulture, and cultural education.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve, nestled in the lush Limahuli Valley on Kauai’s North Shore, is a living testament to Hawaiian cultural heritage and ecological conservation. Spanning 17 acres open to the public and 983 acres of protected preserve, it showcases a rich tapestry of native Hawaiian plants, ancient agricultural terraces, and restored native forests. Visitors can explore a 0.75-mile loop trail that winds through these historic taro terraces, native plant collections, and offers panoramic views of Makana Mountain and the Pacific Ocean. Guided and self-guided tours provide insights into the valley’s traditional ahupuaʻa system—a sustainable land management practice that harmonized human activity with the environment. The garden also serves as a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, including the Limahuli palm (Pritchardia limahuliensis) and alula (Brighamia insignis), which are nurtured through active conservation efforts. Limahuli Garden is not just a botanical destination; it’s a place where visitors can connect with the deep-rooted traditions and ecological wisdom of Hawaii.

Princeville Botanical Gardens, situated on Kauai’s North Shore, is a 9-acre, family-owned oasis renowned for its rich biodiversity and immersive experiences. Founded in 2001 by Bill and Lucinda Robertson, the garden began as a conservation project on former cattle land and opened to the public in 2010. Today, it showcases over 600 plant species, including native Hawaiian flora, rare and endangered plants, and tropical fruits like papaya, pineapple, and cacao. Guided tours, offered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday at 9:30 a.m., last approximately three hours and include tastings of seasonal fruits, honey from on-site beehives, and a 30-minute chocolate tasting featuring chocolates from around the world. Please note that tours require reservations and are not suitable for young children or those with mobility challenges. The gardens provide a unique opportunity to explore Kauai’s diverse plant life and learn about sustainable practices in a tranquil, scenic setting.

Kukuiolono Park, nestled in Kalaheo on Kauai’s South Shore, is a serene 180-acre public park offering panoramic views of the island’s mountains and coastline. Established in 1919 by sugar magnate Walter McBryde, who donated the land to the public, the park features a historic 9-hole golf course known for its affordability and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore a tranquil Japanese garden adorned with fountains, bonsai trees, and a meditation pavilion, as well as a Hawaiian rock garden showcasing ancient artifacts like Lono’s Spoon and salt-making stones . The park also offers walking and jogging paths through ironwood and eucalyptus forests, providing a peaceful environment for outdoor activities. Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Kukuiolono Park is a hidden gem for both locals and visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural history.

The Kauai Coffee Plantation, located on the southern side of the island near Koloa, is the largest coffee farm in the United States and a must-visit destination for coffee lovers. Spanning over 3,100 acres, the plantation offers stunning views of lush fields filled with coffee trees and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Visitors can enjoy self-guided walking tours, sample a variety of freshly brewed Hawaiian coffee blends, and learn about the entire coffee production process—from bean to cup. With its warm hospitality, scenic beauty, and rich coffee culture, the Kauai Coffee Plantation provides an authentic and flavorful experience that reflects the unique spirit of Hawaii.