With a climate unlike the rest of the United States, The Aloha State is home to some of the country’s most unique gardens. These gardens in Hawaii feature thousands of species of tropical plants and flora indigenous to the islands. While, in reality, there are far too many gorgeous botanical havens in Hawaii to feature, these 15 are among the state’s best.
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a lush botanical garden located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Spread over 40 acres, it showcases diverse tropical plants from around the world, including exotic flowers, ferns, palms, and trees. You can wander along winding paths through the garden, marveling at waterfalls, streams, and coastal views.
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is a serene oasis located on the island of Oahu. Spanning over 400 acres, it displays a rich assortment of tropical plants, including those indigenous to Hawaii. Enjoy peaceful walks along scenic trails, take in picturesque views of the Ko'olau Mountains, and appreciate the garden's tranquil lakes and streams. The garden also offers camping facilities, educational programs, and cultural events.
3. Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden, Maui
Kahanu Garden, situated on the island of Maui, is a lush botanical gem. It's renowned for its significant collection of Pacific Island plants, including rare species and culturally significant varieties. Wander through tropical landscapes, encounter ancient artifacts, and appreciate the garden's stunning coastal backdrop.
Allerton Garden, nestled on the south shore of Kauai, is a botanical paradise. Originally established as a private estate, it features stunning landscapes, intricate gardens, and majestic water features. Explore trails, encounter rare plants, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the towering Moreton Bay fig trees. Allerton Garden also offers guided tours, providing insights into its rich history, unique flora, and conservation efforts.
Lili'uokalani Gardens, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a tranquil 30-acre Japanese-style garden named in honor of Queen Lili'uokalani. It features ponds, traditional tea houses, and meticulously manicured landscapes. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, admire picturesque bridges, and enjoy scenic views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea.
Waimea Valley, located on the North Shore of Oahu, is a natural treasure boasting lush landscapes, cultural significance, and rich biodiversity. It features verdant botanical gardens, cascading waterfalls, and a pristine freshwater stream. Explore the valley's hiking trails, swim in natural pools, and learn about Hawaiian history and culture at the visitor center. The valley is also home to numerous endangered plant species and serves as a sanctuary for native Hawaiian flora and fauna.
7. Limahuli Garden & Preserve, National Tropical Botanical Garden, Kauai
Limahuli Garden & Preserve, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden network, is located on the north shore of Kauai. Spread across green valleys and steep cliffs - it is known for its beauty, cultural impact, and environmental stewardship. The garden showcases Hawaiian plant species, including rare and endangered varieties, amidst epic landscapes featuring waterfalls, streams, and ocean vistas. You can explore guided tours and educational programs to learn about traditional Hawaiian land management practices.
Botanical World Adventures, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a sprawling paradise spread over hundreds of acres. It features a collection of tropical plants, including rare and exotic species. Meander through the gardens, discover picturesque waterfalls, and gaze at panoramic views of the island's volcanic terrain. The garden also offers educational tours, cultural exhibits, and opportunities for outdoor recreation like zip lining.
Koko Crater Botanical Garden offers a unique experience within the rugged terrain of an ancient volcanic crater. This garden has a collection of arid plants, including cacti and succulents, adapted to the dry climate of the crater. You can explore scenic trails that wind through the garden, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Pacific Ocean. Koko Crater Botanical Garden provides an opportunity to appreciate the resilience of desert flora in a striking natural setting.
The Garden of Eden Arboretum, nestled in Maui's rainforest, invites visitors to explore its diverse botanical wonders. With panoramic views of waterfalls and valleys, this serene sanctuary showcases tropical flora, including vibrant orchids and towering bamboo. Guided tours and informative signage offer insights into Hawaiian plant life and culture.
Located near Allerton Gardens, the McBryde Garden is operated by the same non-profit and encompasses 252 acres, including the largest ex-situ collection of native Hawaiian flora in the world. It's the perfect place to spend spring in Hawaii.
12. Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, Big Island
The Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers a captivating journey into the rich cultural heritage and botanical diversity of the Hawaiian Islands. Spread across acres of picturesque landscape, the garden showcases indigenous plants traditionally used by Native Hawaiians for food, medicine, and cultural practices. Visitors can check out endemic flora and learn about the deep connection between the Hawaiian people and their natural environment. Through guided tours and educational programs, the garden provides insights into traditional Hawaiian knowledge and sustainable practices.
Foster Botanical Garden, located in downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu, is an oasis known for its tranquil ambiance and diverse plant collections. The garden features fascinating tropical flora, including rare and endangered species. The garden also boasts historical significance, with heritage trees dating back over a century and iconic landmarks such as the conservatory housing exotic plants.
Kula Botanical Garden, nestled on the slopes of Haleakalā on the island of Maui, offers a stunning array of tropical and subtropical flora amidst breathtaking panoramic views. Spread across several acres, the garden has a collection of plants, including native Hawaiian species, vibrant flowers, and exotic trees. Explore themed gardens and enjoy vistas of the Maui countryside and distant ocean.
Moir Gardens is located within the historic Kiahuna Plantation Resort on the island of Kauai. The garden features native Hawaiian plants, exotic flowers, and lush foliage. You can explore serene ponds and cascading water features. Moir Gardens also offers scenic views of Poipu Beach and the surrounding coastline.
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Do you think these are some of the best gardens in Hawaii? Which Hawaii garden is your favorite of the bunch? I love the vibe of Allerton Garden - how about you? Let me know what you think!
Here’s a quiet side of Hawaii that many visitors rarely experience: peaceful trails and parks where you can enjoy the islands’ natural beauty without the bustling crowds. From secluded forest trails to historic coastal paths, these hidden gems offer a serene escape into Hawaii’s lush landscapes and unique history. Here are five of Hawaii’s quietest trails and parks to explore this month, each providing a different yet equally rewarding experience.
If you’re looking for a rare glimpse into Hawaii’s untouched rainforests, Kamakou Preserve on Molokai is the place to go. Managed by The Nature Conservancy, this lush preserve is one of Hawaii’s best-kept secrets. Here, you’ll find the short Pepe‘opae Bog Trail, a narrow boardwalk leading you through dense, misty forests where native Hawaiian plants thrive. The quiet and seclusion create an otherworldly atmosphere, and each turn brings new discoveries, from unique flowers to sweeping views over Molokai. It’s a hike that rewards with peaceful solitude and stunning natural beauty.
For a quieter experience that also connects you with Hawaii’s rich cultural past, visit Lapakahi State Historical Park along the Kohala Coast on the Big Island. This coastal park preserves an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, and its self-guided interpretive trail lets you wander through historic lava stone structures and experience the coastal breeze. The park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, all with ocean views and the soothing sound of waves. Lapakahi is often overlooked, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful afternoon while exploring Hawaii’s cultural heritage.
3. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail – Big Island
The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a hidden gem for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Stretching along the Big Island’s coast, this historic trail spans 175 miles, but you can explore smaller sections for a quieter experience. For an especially peaceful segment, try the stretch along the Kohala Coast, where you’ll follow ancient Hawaiian pathways with stunning coastal views. The trail is dotted with historic sites, making it a scenic way to connect with Hawaii’s past while soaking up the natural beauty around you.
High above Honolulu, Wa‘ahila Ridge Trail offers a tranquil retreat in the mountains. Tucked within Wa‘ahila Ridge State Recreation Area, this moderate trail takes you along the ridgeline with towering Norfolk pines and panoramic views of the Ko‘olau Mountains and Pacific Ocean. The trail’s secluded atmosphere and cool breezes make it a peaceful escape from Oahu’s busier attractions. As you walk through the lush, shaded sections and emerge to views of Honolulu, you’ll feel like you’ve found one of Oahu’s best-kept secrets.
For those exploring Haleakalā National Park on Maui, Pā Ka‘oao Trail offers a quiet alternative to the summit’s often crowded sunrise spots. This short, easy trail leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Haleakalā Crater, allowing you to take in the vast, lunar-like landscape at your own pace. The short trail winds up to an overlook, giving you an incredible perspective on the crater and surrounding areas without the need to tackle longer or busier trails. Pā Ka‘oao is perfect for anyone seeking a serene, awe-inspiring view of Maui’s famous volcanic landscape.
These trails and parks highlight Hawaii’s quieter side, showcasing its natural beauty, cultural history, and unique landscapes. Each one offers a peaceful escape, inviting you to experience Hawaii away from the crowds. If you need new outdoor gear for your adventures, I love the options at REI. Looking for more hidden gems? I love Kaena Point State Park.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
