Lyon Arboretum is a University of Hawaiʻi botanical garden and research site in Mānoa Valley, at 3860 Mānoa Road in Honolulu. More than 6,000 tropical and subtropical plant species grow across its rainforest grounds, with over seven miles of paths through themed gardens and dense vegetation. Look for the Native Hawaiian Garden and ethnobotanical area, and take in views toward the valley’s mountains. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. The paths can be muddy and hard to follow, so bring sturdy shoes, insect repellent and a paper map.
A rainforest garden in Mānoa Valley
Lyon Arboretum is managed by the University of Hawaiʻi and serves as both a public garden and a research site. Its grounds cover close to 200 acres in the upper part of Mānoa Valley, where rainforest conditions support tropical and subtropical plants. The arboretum sits near Mānoa Falls, but its garden paths give you a separate way to spend time among the valley’s vegetation.
The collections include more than 6,000 plant species. The setting feels close to the surrounding forest, with mature trees, dense greenery and mountain views. It is a quieter choice for a nature walk than a visit focused on Honolulu’s urban sights.
Gardens and plant collections
The gardens include a Native Hawaiian Garden and an ethnobotanical area, where plants are connected with their cultural uses. Other named areas include a herb and spice garden, a bromeliad garden and the Betty Ho Memorial Garden. Plant labels help identify what you are seeing as you walk.
The arboretum’s work also includes researching and preserving tropical plants, including rare Hawaiian species. Its living collections bring that work into view, with plants from Hawaiʻi and other tropical regions growing across the grounds.
Choosing a route through the grounds
More than seven miles of trails and paths cross the arboretum. Some routes are gentle walks through the gardens; others climb to higher elevations. The visitor-center area is paved, but many garden paths are sloped and unpaved, so the grounds are not suitable for a wheelchair or stroller beyond that area.
A paper map can help you plan, but signs at trail junctions may be hard to find. Check the map as you go and allow time to retrace your steps if a path ends. The property also has a small natural waterfall, Aihualama Falls, though routes toward waterfalls can be difficult to follow.
What to bring and how long to stay
Rain and damp ground are part of the Mānoa Valley setting. After wet weather, paths can become slippery, so closed-toe shoes with good grip are useful. Mosquitoes are another practical concern; apply insect repellent before setting out.
Plan for several hours if you want to explore the trails as well as the garden collections. The arboretum is open on weekdays, and its free admission makes a longer visit easier to plan. Donations are appreciated. Parking is free but limited, so arriving early can help with finding a space.
FAQ
Is Lyon Arboretum free to visit?
Yes. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Parking is also free, but spaces are limited.
How long do you need at Lyon Arboretum?
Allow several hours, or about half a day, to explore the gardens and trail network.
What should I bring to Lyon Arboretum?
Bring insect repellent, closed-toe shoes with good grip and a paper map. Paths can be muddy, and some junctions are difficult to follow.
Is Lyon Arboretum wheelchair accessible?
The area around the visitor center is paved, but many garden paths are sloped and unpaved. The wider grounds are not suitable for wheelchair access.
