From arboretums to parks and gardens, these five destinations breathe life into Hawaii. Here's our list of the best parks to visit in Honolulu.
The Central Park of Honolulu, this garden oasis is nestled amidst the busy downtown. The oldest of Honolulu’s botanical gardens, this attraction’s highlights include a conservatory and an outdoor butterfly garden surrounded by palm trees. 180 N Vineyard Blvd., Honolulu, honolulu.gov/parks
PHOTO BY MICA MCKERLICH/UNSPLASH
Aptly named for “a peaceful refuge,” this plush Oahu park takes visitors on a botanical world tour. In addition to Hawaii’s natural wildlife, garden flora and fauna originate from destinations such as Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Africa. 45-680 Luluku Road, Kāneʻohe, honolulu.gov/parks
In Mānoa Valley, the University of Hawaii invites the public to rejoice in their gorgeous botanical gardens. Fascinating wildlife and hiking trails abound across the park’s nearly 200 acres. 3860 Mānoa Road, Honolulu, manoa.hawaii.edu/lyon
Named for Queen Kapiolani, this grassy park is home to the Waikiki Zoo, as well as several outdoor sporting set-ups and outdoor shows. Proceed to the Kapiolani Bandstand on Sunday afternoons for free weekly concerts from The Royal Hawaiian Band. 3840 Paki Ave., Honolulu, honolulu.gov/parks
In the valley between the Ko‘olau and Wai‘anae mountains, a tropical rainforest garden awaits. Formerly an experimental arboretum, this garden is flush with stunning native Hawaiian plants and fern trees. 1396 California Ave., Wahiawa, honolulu.gov/parks
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