Limahuli Garden

Learn to distinguish Kaua'i's flora among native, Polynesian-introduced and modern-introduced (alien) species at Limahuli Garden, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden . Perhaps the most natural of all Kaua'i's gardens, the setting is spectacular, with Makana Mountain standing guard over plants flourishing from the copious rainfall.

At your own pace, navigate the scenic 0.75-mile loop trail. Benches here and there allow stops for rest or contemplation. From a handy free booklet, along with succinct signage, you'll learn that the stereotypical tropical fruits and flowers, eg mango, guava and plumeria, were unknown to ancient Hawaiians.

To get here, turn inland just before the stream that marks the boundary of Ha'ena State Park.