What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can join free fishing, short paved hikes, and monthly nature hours, and picnic shelters give shade, yet parents must watch them closely near water and steep banks.
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for a quick trail hike, lake-side picnic, and a fishing activity without tiring younger children.
Themed Garden Hike:
Follow short, linked trails through themed sections like the palm garden, bamboo forest, and local plants.
Tip: Pick up a free map at the Visitor Center and let kids check off each garden theme.
Float Paper Boats:
Race paper boats in the shallow stream at Kahua Lehua.
Tip: Waterproof paper with tape beforehand to keep boats afloat longer.
Catch-and-Release Fishing:
Borrow a bamboo pole and fish for tilapia at the 32-acre lake.
Tip: Reserve the free fishing permit online two weeks in advance.
Lake-side Picnic:
Use a pavilion or shady lawn beside the lake for lunch or snacks.
Tip: Call ahead to reserve a pavilion, then pack easy-to-eat foods.
Tree Climbing by the Lake:
Find low-hanging branches around the lakefront for safe climbing.
Tip: Supervise kids closely and check branch stability before climbing.

xandra
This is a must-do activity on your trip to Oahu! It’s absolutely beautiful, with informative signs about the plants and trees—and the best part is, it’s completely free! There's plenty of parking available however I took the bus and walked all the way there.
A V
Beautiful. Take a blanket and some food and enjoy a little picnic by the lake. Be careful of wildlife. We visited an hour before closing, and we didn’t feel rushed, but of course if you want to see the whole park a full day is needed. Plenty of parking at the end of the day.
Alberto Nuevo
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden – A Living Dream in Oʻahu Visiting Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden is like stepping into a dreamscape where cinema and nature collide. At moments, it feels as if King Kong himself might emerge from the towering emerald mountains, or a pterosaur could glide across the sky. The atmosphere evokes a breathtaking blend of Avatar, Jurassic Park, and Skull Island, yet here the ...
Abdul M Bailey
This is not your typical Botanical Garden. It's more like a drive, stop, and view overlook experience. The variety of plants is mind blowing. They have vegetation from all over the world. The Mountains and Foliage is lush and green. The park is free which is great. I would have been happy to pay a few bucks to support better signage and pedestrian pathways. It's definitely worth a visit.
Andy
Dropped here by chance and had a great experience. Grounds were well maintained and hosted a lot of exotic and native plants of Hawaii that we saw nowhere else. Location also granted epic views as you explored the area. Restrooms were clean and there is a food truck near entrance where you could grab a snack (not sure if still there). Definitely a worthwhile place to drop by for a few hours.
Visit on clear mornings to avoid midday heat and muddy trails after rain. During rainy season (Nov–Mar), pack rain gear.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking | USD 0 |
| Fishing permit | USD 0 |
| Pavilion reservation | USD 0 |
| Camping permit (optional) | USD 32 |
| Total Estimated | USD 32 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
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Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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Official WebsitePhone Number
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