Liliʻuokalani Gardens is a Japanese-style garden on Hilo Bay, along Banyan Drive in Hilo. Its paths pass ponds, arched bridges, stone lanterns, pagodas and broad banyan trees, with the bay and Coconut Island nearby. The garden was dedicated in 1917 in honor of Japanese immigrants to Hawaiʻi and named for Queen Liliʻuokalani. Come for a quiet walk, pause on a shaded bench or bring a picnic. Look for nēnē, Hawaiʻi’s native geese, and give them room if you spot them.
A garden dedicated in 1917
Liliʻuokalani Gardens lies beside Hilo Bay on Banyan Drive. The garden was dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to Japanese immigrants who came to Hawaiʻi to work in the sugar cane fields. It is named for Queen Liliʻuokalani, Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarch.
The garden brings Japanese design elements into a coastal setting. As you walk, look for fishponds, rock gardens, pagodas, stone lanterns and bridges, framed by tropical plants and mature banyan trees. The mixture of carefully arranged features, lava rock and bay views gives the grounds their distinctive character.
Paths, ponds and quiet places to pause
Walking paths lead past the ponds and under banyan branches. Bridges cross the water, while lanterns and pagodas provide points to stop and look more closely at the garden’s details. Some paths are paved and level, making a relaxed stroll possible; shaded benches offer places to rest.
The water level can affect which parts of the grounds are accessible. After heavy rain, puddles may cover sections of the paths, and temporary closures can limit access to particular features. Take a moment to check conditions as you explore instead of assuming every bridge or area is open.
A place for a slower visit
The garden is used for everyday walks as well as picnics and family gatherings. You may also see weddings taking place among the grounds. If you bring food, picnic tables are available; otherwise, a bench beneath the trees makes a peaceful place to sit and watch the bay.
Keep an eye out for nēnē in the garden. These native birds are part of the setting, but they need space, so stay at least 60 feet away. From the garden, you can continue toward Coconut Island and take in more of the waterfront surroundings.
Häufige Fragen
Is Liliʻuokalani Gardens free to visit?
Yes. The garden is free to enter.
What can you see at Liliʻuokalani Gardens?
Look for ponds, arched bridges, stone lanterns, pagodas, rock gardens and banyan trees. The garden sits beside Hilo Bay.
Why is the garden named Liliʻuokalani Gardens?
It is named for Queen Liliʻuokalani, Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarch. The garden was dedicated in 1917 in honor of Japanese immigrants to Hawaiʻi.
Can you walk to Coconut Island from the garden?
Yes. A footbridge connects the garden area with Coconut Island.
