Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Botanical Garden

Located within the North Hamakua Region on Big Island

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04-02-2026

John C. Derrick

Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

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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. Admission is $30 for adults and $22 for children ages 6-12, with children under 6 admitted free. The garden is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with last entry at 4:00 p.m. 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.

Published by: John C. Derrick

Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Botanical Garden Reviews

Guidereview:

A (based on 1,109 visitor reviews)

Geolocation Data

Geographic Coordinates

Latitude: 19.81032063
Longitude: -155.0960941

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Location

North Hamakua Region →

Facilities

Yes, inside garden and at visitor center

Length

Varies based on exploration

Children

Great for children

Difficulty

Mostly easy, but moderate to strenuous climb out along boardwalk

Duration

1-2 hours on average

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Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Botanical Garden

Located within the North Hamakua Region on Big Island