Nani Mau Gardens is a tropical botanical garden and event venue at 421 Makalika St in Hilo. Its grounds include orchid and hibiscus gardens, heart-shaped anthuriums, palms and fruit trees, with paths for a quiet stroll. A meal at the on-site restaurant can include garden admission, and events have ranged from craft fairs to night markets with food, music and hula. If rain is approaching, explore the gardens first; check the venue’s social media for event updates.
Tropical gardens in Hilo
Nani Mau Gardens covers more than 20 acres and opened to the public in 1972. Makato Nitahara created the garden on a former papaya patch. Its name means “forever beautiful.”
The grounds bring together tropical flowers, trees and fruit orchards. Look for orchids, hibiscus, palms and anthuriums, including heart-shaped varieties growing beneath tree ferns. Some trees bear fruit that can be sampled.
A tram tour or a walk
An optional tram tour takes about 30 minutes and introduces the gardens and traditional Hawaiian uses of plants. You can also explore the paths on foot at your own pace. A fountain shaped around the Hawaiian island chain is another feature to look for.
The grounds are outdoors, so if rain is approaching, make the garden walk your first stop. The venue also has an on-site restaurant; a lunch buffet has included admission to the garden.
Events and dining
The venue hosts events including the ʻOhana Night Market and the Merrie Monarch craft fair. Some events bring together food vendors, music, hula and activities such as basket weaving and Hawaiian games. Check the venue’s social media for event updates before you go.
Dining has included shabu shabu hot pot, buffet meals and plate lunches. The hot pot comes with a choice of vegetables or meat, along with noodles and seasonings for cooking at the table. Food experiences vary, so if the garden is your priority, plan time to walk the grounds as well.
Perguntas frequentes
How long is the tram tour at Nani Mau Gardens?
The optional tram tour takes about 30 minutes. You can also walk through the gardens at your own pace.
Does restaurant admission include the gardens?
A lunch buffet has included admission to the garden. Confirm the arrangement for the meal or event you plan to attend.
What can you see at Nani Mau Gardens?
The gardens include orchids, hibiscus, anthuriums, palms and fruit trees, as well as a fountain shaped around the Hawaiian island chain.
Does Nani Mau Gardens host events?
Events have included the ʻOhana Night Market and the Merrie Monarch craft fair. Check the venue’s social media for updates.
