Lyon Arboretum

The basics

Over 7 miles (11 kilometers) of trails run through the Lyon Arboretum. As you walk, you might encounter some of the garden’s 25 species of birds. One of the most popular trails, to ‘Aihualama Falls, is just over a mile (1.6 kilometers), and the feeling of sitting by the 40-foot (12-meter) falls, surrounded by the sound of birdsong and housands of plant species, really lets you know that you’ve left the city and are fully immersed in Hawaiian nature.

Visitors can explore the arboretum independently on a self-guided tour, or get a bit more information with a docent-led tour. The arboretum also offers garden-themed workshops and guided group hikes.

Things to know before you go

• The Lyon Arboretum is open to the public and free to visit, but you need a reservation.

• Visitors are required to sign in at the visitors’ center, where they can acquire trail, bird, and garden guides.

• The majority of trails are not wheelchair-accessible. Some gardens may be viewed from the paved sidewalks surrounding the visitors’ center.

• Pets—with the exception of service animals—are not allowed.

How to get there

The arboretum is less than a 20-minute drive from Honolulu; or you can take the number 5 bus to Mānoa valley, get off at the last stop, then walk around 10 minutes up past Paradise Park to the arboretum. Lyon Arboretum offers visitors free parking, but there are a limited number of stalls and they fill up quickly. Paid overflow parking is available at the Paradise Park lot down the road.

When to get there

Lyon Arboretum is open to the public Mondays through Fridays from morning until mid-afternoon. It is closed on weekends and on both state and federal holidays. The arboretum hosts a number of community classes and events throughout the year: Check the schedule at the website.

Manoa Falls Trail

Next to the arboretum, the Manoa Falls Trail is one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes on Oahu, leading walkers on an easy route to lush, verdant views of Manoa Valley and ending at a 150-foot (46-meter) rushing waterfall. Note, however, that parking at the arboretum is reserved for arboretum visitors and all others (including those going to the Mānoa Falls Trail) will be towed.

Ways to explore

The Lyon Arboretum is open to the public on weekdays, and admission is free for all (although donations are welcome). The site is best explored on foot; you can pick up maps and trail guides from the visitor center on arrival, then set off exploring. With around 7 miles (11 kilometers) of trails, how long you spend at the arboretum depends on your level of interest—you could easily pack a picnic and spend half a day or more strolling and spotting sights such as the walking Buddha statue, or taking in the views from Inspiration Point. Guided tours can be arranged for larger groups, but must be booked in advance.

Accessibility

Most of the garden’s trails are not wheelchair accessible, but there is an ADA trail near the visitor center. Paved sidewalks lead to some garden areas, and the visitor center is accessible. Service animals are welcome.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, bug spray, sunscreen

What to wear

Raincoat (in season), hat, sturdy shoes

Not allowed

Pets, swimwear, drones

Amenities

Visitor center, restrooms, gift shop

Address 

Lyon Arboretum is tucked away on the southwestern edge of the Waimanalo Forest Reserve in the Manoa Valley, northeast of Honolulu. On-site parking is available, and it’s accessible via public transportation.

Driving

If you're coming from King Street, turn left on Puhanou Street and then take the left Manoa Road fork straight to the arboretum. From University Avenue, you can take O’ahu Avenue to Manoa Road. On-site parking is free.

Public transportation

Take line 5 of TheBus to Manoa Valley and get off at the last stop, then walk for around 10 minutes up past Paradise Park to the arboretum.

Best times to visit

The arboretum is typically open from 9am to 3pm on weekdays. Visit close to opening time when the weather is cooler, and there are generally fewer crowds.

Best days to visit

Any time from Monday to Friday. Note that the arboretum is closed on weekends, public holidays, and sometimes for maintenance or events.

Best months to visit

Visit during the shoulder seasons—March to May or September to November—for good weather without the crowds of the busy summer and winter holiday months.

Special events

The arboretum hosts events throughout the year, including day camps and plant sales. Check the website for details.