Lyon Arboretum
Escape into a 194-acre tropical rainforest paradise. Book your self-guided tour and walk among the world's most extraordinary collection of tropical plants in Honolulu's stunning Mānoa Valley.
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Step into a world away from the city bustle and immerse yourself in the living library of Lyon Arboretum. Managed by the University of Hawaiʻi, this 194-acre botanical garden is a treasure trove of tropical biodiversity, nestled deep in the lush, rain-blessed Mānoa Valley. Your entry ticket unlocks a self-guided exploration through more than seven miles of winding trails, leading you past towering rainforest trees, thematic gardens showcasing everything from vibrant bromeliads to native Hawaiian plants, and culminating at the beautiful 'Aihualama Falls. This is more than just a walk; it's an educational journey and a chance to connect with the raw, natural beauty of Hawaii in a protected and carefully curated environment.
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Read authentic, unedited feedback from fellow travelers who have visited the arboretum. Get honest insights to help you plan the perfect trip.
We connect you with official and authorized ticket sellers for Lyon Arboretum, so you can be sure your tickets are valid and your purchase supports the garden's conservation efforts.
Life happens. Choose from a range of dates and times, and benefit from flexible cancellation policies offered by our partners, giving you peace of mind for your travel plans.
We don't just sell tickets. We've selected one of Honolulu's best nature experiences, saving you research time so you can focus on making incredible memories.
Lyon Arboretum is a year-round destination. The summer months (May-September) are generally warmer and slightly drier, while the winter months (October-April) are cooler and see more rainfall, making the forest even more lush and the waterfall more active. Rain is possible any day of the year.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes are highly recommended.|Wear moisture-wicking clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty.|A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is essential, even if the sky looks clear.|A hat can provide protection from both sun and rain.
Founded in 1918 by the Hawaiian Sugar Planters' Association, the site was originally used to test tree species for reforestation and to protect the watershed. In 1953, it was gifted to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and became the research and educational institution it is today, dedicated to the conservation of tropical plant biodiversity.
Cancellation policies are determined by our booking partners and are outlined at the time of purchase. Most partners offer a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. Please review the specific policy for your ticket before confirming your booking.
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Real experiences from real travelers
As an avid hiker, I was blown away by the trails here. It's a proper rainforest experience just minutes from the city. Booked our tickets online the night before, super easy. The trail to the waterfall was muddy but so worth it. The sheer variety of palms and heliconias is incredible. A must-do for any nature lover visiting Oahu.
I spent four hours here and could have stayed longer. The light filtering through the canopy, the water droplets on the giant leaves, the vibrant colors... every corner is a photo opportunity. Booking was simple, and having the ticket on my phone was convenient. It's truly a peaceful escape from the busy-ness of Waikiki.
We visited to escape the Canadian winter and were not disappointed by the greenery! It's an absolutely stunning place. It started raining (as we were warned!) but it just added to the atmosphere. We were glad we booked online as the entry line was a bit long. My only advice is to take the warnings about muddy trails seriously - wear proper shoes!
Our kids (8 and 11) absolutely loved exploring the 'jungle'. It was so educational and much more engaging than just another day at the beach. We pre-booked our family pass online, which made entry a breeze. The kids were fascinated by the ethnobotanical garden and the sheer size of the trees. Highly recommend for families looking for something different.
A very beautiful and quiet botanical garden. It is not a polished park, but a real piece of rainforest, which I liked very much. I used the bus to get there, which was easy. The online ticket process was smooth. It is a perfect place for contemplation and to see the native plants of Hawaii. It is very humid, so bring much water.
Everything you need to know for your journey
You can easily book your entry tickets online through our platform. We partner with authorized ticket sellers to provide a seamless booking experience. Simply select your desired date, the number of tickets, and complete the secure checkout process. You will receive an instant confirmation and your e-tickets via email.
Yes, there is limited parking available at the Lyon Arboretum entrance. It is available on a first-come, first-served basis and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours. We highly recommend arriving early or considering rideshare services or public transportation to avoid parking issues.
Wear comfortable, sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots. The trails can be uneven, muddy, and slippery, especially after rain. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal. We strongly recommend bringing a rain jacket or poncho, as showers are very common in the Mānoa Valley, even on sunny days.
The trails vary in difficulty. The main paths near the entrance are relatively flat and well-maintained, suitable for most fitness levels. However, as you venture deeper into the arboretum towards the waterfall, the trails become steeper, more rugged, and can be challenging. Always check the trail map and conditions upon arrival.
Absolutely! The Lyon Arboretum is a fantastic destination for families and children who love nature. The open lawns are great for kids to run around, and the diverse plants and insects offer a wonderful learning experience. Just be mindful that strollers may be difficult to manage on the steeper, unpaved trails.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own water and snacks. There are no cafes or restaurants inside the arboretum, so packing your own provisions is essential. Please remember to pack out everything you pack in and dispose of trash in the designated bins near the entrance to keep the garden pristine.
To fully appreciate the beauty and diversity of the arboretum, we recommend allocating at least 2 to 4 hours for your visit. This allows enough time to walk the main trails, visit a few of the themed gardens, and see 'Aihualama Falls without rushing.
Rain is a very common and expected part of the Lyon Arboretum experience, as it is located in a rainforest. The arboretum remains open rain or shine. In fact, a light rain can enhance the magical atmosphere of the forest. Heavy rain might make trails more slippery, so exercise extra caution. Your booking confirmation will have details on weather-related cancellation policies from the provider.
Yes, there are public restrooms available for visitors. They are located near the main visitor center at the entrance of the arboretum. There are no restroom facilities further out on the trail system, so it is advisable to use them before you start your hike.
The main paths near the visitor center are paved and relatively flat, making them accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, the majority of the 7 miles of trails are unpaved, uneven, and include steep sections and stairs, which are not wheelchair accessible. Please check with the arboretum directly for the most current accessibility information.
Yes, we highly recommend bringing and applying insect repellent. Being a tropical rainforest, mosquitoes and other biting insects are present, especially in shaded, damp areas and during times of high humidity. Applying repellent will make your visit much more comfortable.
The standard entry ticket provides access for a self-guided tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace using the provided maps. The arboretum occasionally offers special guided tours, workshops, and classes focused on specific topics like ethnobotany or horticulture. You can check for the availability of these special programs and book them separately when available.
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