The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a 40-acre greenhouse full of 2,000 different types of plants. This botanical garden is located on Hawaii’s largest island in the city of Papaikou, very close to the popular city of Hilo.
This greenhouse was founded by a man named Dan J. Lutkenhouse. Lutkenhouse spent many years perfecting this botanical garden in the 1970s, and it was opened to the public in 1984. Today the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is officially a nonprofit organization.
Many people come to visit this stunning garden to see the waterfalls as well as the wide variety of plants and palm trees. Guests also get stunning views of Onomea Bay and Boulder Creek from this garden.
Members of the staff here are working hard to preserve and protect the rich diversity of flora in Hawaii. Plants grow extremely well in this this garden due to the volcanic soil in this area. This botanical garden also has its own seed bank and a study center for those interested in tropical plants.
The staff at this botanical garden welcomes people of all ages every day except for Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day, and Christmas. If you are a military veteran, be sure to show your I.D. for a free visit. Also, if you are traveling around Hawaii by boat, this botanical garden’s staff can meet you and pick you up at a pier. Just be sure to let the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden know about your arrival in advance.
Tours and Experiences for Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Shaka Guide's driving tour app works like a tour guide in your car! On this tour drive along beautiful green coastlines, through tropical jungle roads, and go star gazing on the tallest mountain in the world.
Skip the tour bus & explore Big Island at your own pace for a fraction of the cost with the best self-guided audio GPS tours for Hawaii! Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads.
Why you need it:
✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline
✅ Much cheaper than a tour bus at only $19.99 for lifetime access
✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up
✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!)
✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*
Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. This Big Island Tour Bundle comes with five socially-distanced audio driving tours:
• South Island Epic Coastal Journey (8-10 hour tour)
• North Island Jungle Adventure Loop (8-10 hour tour)
• Kona Big Kahuna Loop (4-6 hour tour)
• Kohala Coast and Backcountry Tour (3-5 hour tour)
• Volcanoes National Park Tour (6-8 hour tour)
The app uses GPS to give you turn-by-turn navigation to historic sites, popular attractions, world-class beaches and scenic hikes.
All Shaka Guide Tours...
• Never expire - take them multiple times or buy in advance
• Work 100% offline - no data or wifi necessary
• Let you take the tour when you want - download the tour and choose the day that works best for you
*Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*
Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!
Get a taste of paradise on Hawaii’s Big Island. This driving tour guides you along the island’s picturesque coast and through lush jungle scenery. Lounge on pristine beaches, hike atop dormant volcanoes, go snorkeling in crystal-clear water, and more—all while learning about the fascinating history of this island and the people who call it home. Plus, learn about Hawaiian history, visit ancient burial grounds, and really get to know this island’s rich culture.
After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.
Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Big Island Waterfall Wonders Tour!
This tour takes you on a breathtaking journey, starting with a trek to the east side of the island on New Saddle Road. For the performance-minded, you can take Old Saddle Road, the rollercoaster of Big Island, where you'll climb to an altitude of 6,600 feet before dropping down into Hilo. Your first stop will be the magnificent Rainbow Falls, where you can witness the beauty of cascading water in all its glory. Continue your drive along the Old Mamalahoa Highway until you reach the awe-inspiring Akaka Falls, standing tall at 420 feet. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Umauma Falls, take a trip down to Laupahoehoe, experience the panoramic views at Waipio Lookout, indulge in delicious Malasadas at Ted's, and explore the charming shops in Waimae town.
But it's not just about the destinations; it's about the journey itself. Our Polaris Slingshot vehicles make the drive an exhilarating experience.
The "Wild and Scenic Hawaii: Waterfalls and Wonders" tour by Kailani Tours combines Hawaii’s stunning landscapes, authentic local flavors, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy perks like complimentary Tex Drive-In malasadas, Kula Shave Ice, and treats from Big Island Candies. Visit sites such as Waipio Valley Lookout, Akaka Falls, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and Rainbow Falls. Travel comfortably in our luxury Mercedes 15-passenger mini-coaches with surround sound, flip-down monitors, and complimentary beverages. Our English-speaking guides provide personalized narration with engaging stories and local insights. Dedicated to sustainability, we partner with local farms and artisans, supporting the island’s beauty and community. With groups up to 13 guests, enjoy a tailored and memorable journey through the Big Island’s most scenic landscapes. Choose Kailani Tours for an unmatched blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion.
Experience the enchanting allure of nature’s finest treasures on this immersive tour, where lush botanical gardens, majestic waterfalls, and vibrant farmers markets await your exploration! Wander through vibrant gardens bursting with a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances, where exotic blooms and towering trees create a serene oasis of tranquility. Then, venture to awe-inspiring waterfalls, where cascading torrents of water plunge into shimmering pools below, filling the air with the soothing sounds of nature’s symphony. Finally, indulge your senses at the local farmers market, where fresh produce and local delicacies await! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply seeking solace in the beauty of the natural world, our tour promises an unforgettable journey through some of Big Island’s most captivating landscapes.