Liliʻuokalani Gardens

The Basics

Stroll with locals on the extensive trails in the garden’s 30-acre (12-hectare) park, or join a traditional ceremony at the tea house. Many guided tours of Hilo include a visit to the gardens, alongside stops at Big Island highlights such as Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls. If you are visiting on a cruise ship shore excursion or visiting on a tour from another island, look for a guided day trip that includes Liliuokalani Gardens.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A must-see for Japanese culture enthusiasts.

• The gardens are free and open 24 hours a day.

• The garden’s extensive trails are popular among local joggers.

• A footbridge connects the gardens to Moku Ola Island (Coconut Island).

• Paved walkways make much of the gardens wheelchair and stroller accessible.

How to Get There

Liliuokalani Gardens are located less than 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Hilo International Airport and near Hilo’s main street, Kamehameha Avenue. If you are staying in Hilo you can reach the garden on foot, by bicycle, or by car. The gardens also can be visited on tours from cruise ships or other islands.

When to Get There

Average temperatures in Hawaii’s temperate climate typically remain stable year-round, rising to highs of about 85°F (29°C), making it a great spot to visit in any season. Wake up early and visit the gardens in the predawn quiet to watch the sunrise over the ocean. The gardens—open 24 hours—stay busy throughout the day.

Shoroan Tea House in Liliuokalani Gardens

The Shoroan Tea House holds traditional Japanese tea ceremonies free of charge. Take part in this Zen Buddhism ritual (known as Chado) in which bowls of tea are prepared in a traditional way and served to guests. There are also Japanese and English classes offered at the tea house. You can view the class schedule online.

Ways to explore

Many guided tours of Hilo include a visit to Lili‘uokalani Gardens, often accompanied by stops at other notable Big Island highlights, like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls. If you’re visiting on a cruise ship shore excursion or on a tour from another island, look for a guided day trip that includes Lili‘uokalani Gardens—it’s one of Hilo’s best sites.

Of course, you can also visit independently to stroll the extensive trails in the garden’s 25-acre (10-hectare) park, or, if time allows, join a traditional ceremony at the tea house.

Accessibility

Paths throughout the park are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water, snacks, camera, umbrella

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, rain jacket, hat

Not allowed

Dogs without leashes, littering

Amenities

Restrooms, picnic spots, benches, ice cream stand

Address

Lili‘uokalani Gardens is on Banyan Drive in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii, adjacent to the hotels on Hilo Bay. The gardens are less than 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the airport and near Hilo’s main street, Kamehameha Avenue.

Driving

It’s easy to travel to the gardens by car. Begin by navigating toward Hilo. If you are coming from the Hilo airport, take Highway 11/Kanoelehua Avenue to Banyan Drive. There’s parking on the street and in nearby lots.

Public transportation

The Hele-On bus’ Route 101 runs directly on Banyan Drive. Let the driver know that you want to stop at the gardens, and you’ll get dropped off out front.

Best times to visit

Arrive early in the evening when the weather is cooler, the crowds are fewer, and the lighting is perfect for photography.

Best days to visit

There’s no bad time to visit Lili‘uokalani Gardens, though it’s best when the sun is shining. The park is open year-round, and admission is free.

Best months to visit

Prime time for the gardens is spring and summer, from April to September, though there are blooms year-round.

Special events

Lili‘uokalani Gardens hosts various cultural events and activities throughout the year, like the annual Queen Liliuokalani Festival. Check the gardens’ event calendar for celebrations.