Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is the most famous one of its kind on the island of Oahu and it is located on the windward side of the island, not far from the Byodo-in Temple.

Situated in Kaneohe, the garden was created by the US Army in 1982 (in cooperation with the city of Honolulu) to provide a flood barrier to the area of Kaneohe. While the flood barrier was the initial focus, they also decided to use the space to preserve and showcase the colorful plant species of Hawaii (and beyond).

The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is located right against the dramatic Ko’olau Mountains and spans 400 acres. Inside the premises, visitors will find areas where they can go fishing on Lake Wilson (permit needed), camping, and picnicking.

📸 Note: The area gained fame on Instagram due to a road that runs down the middle of the garden with the Ko’olau Mountains in the background. It is NOT permitted to get out and take photos on this road despite what you see in pictures.

What to See and Do at the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

See the Botanical Collections

There are various botanical collections at Ho’omaluhia, each of which represents a different geographical region.

The regions represented are Africa, Hawaii, South Asia (India and Sri Lanka), Melanesia, Southeast Asia (the Philippines and Malaysia), Polynesia, and Tropical America.

Go Bird-watching

A wealth of birdlife calls this botanical garden home. There are some striking species found here, including the Northern Cardinal, Red-whiskered Bulbul, Java Finch, and the Red-crested (or Brazilian Cardinal).

Check Out the Events and Classes 

Throughout the year, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden hosts various events and classes.

As well as guided tours, there are some fantastic activities that you can book in advance online, including garden meditation and botanical drawing and painting.

How to Get to Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden from Honolulu

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is around an 18-minute drive from Honolulu. There are two main routes; either via HI-63 N or the Pali Hwy. 

Those who don’t have their own vehicle can also take public transport to the botanical garden. From Honolulu, you’ll need to catch the 60 bus service (Kaneohe – Haleiwa).

The bus journey takes around 20 minutes and then you’ll get off at the Anoi Rd + Hinamoe LP bus stop. From here, it’s around an 8-minute walk to the entrance.

However, you need a car to make the most of your visit as the gardens are so big.

Visiting with a Rental Car

The best way to reach Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden (and visit other attractions on the island of Oahu) is to rent a car.

Luckily, there are some fantastic rental car companies in Honolulu including Enterprise, First Rent-A-Car, and Voyage Rental Cars. Alternatively, you can rent a car straight from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Popular rental companies such as Sixt, Alamo, and National Car are located here.

Your other option is to rent a car in advance using a platform such as Discover Cars. You’ll often get much better rental rates this way and will have a wider selection of vehicles to choose from!

Visiting on a Tour

Your other option is to visit by tour. This private circle island tour is a popular option, as your guide will tailor the tour towards you. This way, you’ve got an input on what you see!

As well as driving around Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, this tour includes a variety of other photography spots. These include the Halona Blowhole, Lanikai Beach, Byodo-In Temple, and the Dole Plantation.

Places to Visit near Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Byodo-In Temple

Byodo-In Temple is around a 12-minute drive away. This cultural attraction is a must-visit, with highlights including the Amida Buddha, Bon Sho (Sacred Bell), and the Meditation Pavilion. There’s also a gift shop on-site.

Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout

Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout is around a 13-minute drive from the botanical garden entrance. This breathtaking viewpoint offers striking vistas of the Windward Coast and Koʻolau cliffs. Paid parking is available.

Kailua Beach Park

Kailua Beach Park is under a 20-minute drive from the entrance gate of Ho’omaluhia. Here, you’ll find a charming beach which is great for sunbathing and swimming. Bathroom facilities are available here too.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden: On a Map