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What to Expect in the Lyon Arboretum
The Lyon Arboretum, located in the lush Manoa Valley on Oʻahu, Hawaii, is a testament to the island’s rich botanical diversity. This enchanting oasis offers a journey through the beauty of nature, charming landscapes, and a deep sense of tranquility. The garden describes itself as “an Eden of peace in a busy world” – and it couldn’t be more accurate.
The Lyon Arboretum is a tropical wonderland, showcasing an incredible variety of native Hawaiian plants and trees. Spread across more than 200 acres, the grounds feature stunning blooms, towering trees, and winding paths. From the magnificent rainbow eucalyptus trees to delicate, exotic orchids, every step reveals another marvel of nature. It’s a fantastic spot for picnics, hikes, romantic strolls, or photography sessions.
Founded in 1918 by the Hawaiian Sugar Planters Association (HSPA) as the Manoa Arboretum, the site was originally used to test various trees for reforestation, as cattle had once grazed the land bare. Watershed restoration was also a key focus. The first director, Dr. Harold L. Lyon, oversaw the introduction of around 2,000 different tree species. Today, the collection has grown to over 15,000 plants, ranging from economically useful species to rare and endangered ones.
In 1953, the arboretum was gifted to the University of Hawaii, with the stipulation that the university maintain it as a botanical garden. After Dr. Lyon’s death in 1957, the garden was renamed in his honor.
Visitors can explore themed gardens from around the world, including the Asian Garden, European Garden, and the Aihualama Waterfall. Highlights include the Japanese Gardens, Stemmermann Memorial Garden, and Mapes Memorial Garden. Throughout the arboretum, you may also spot exotic, colorful birds such as cockatoos, Brazilian cardinals, and bulbuls.
- Tip: Visit the Lyon Arboretum before the Manoa Falls Trail, as the latter can get very muddy
- Discover: Discover more destinations and tour reports in our ultimate Oahu itinerary
The Lyon Arboretum in Action
Location on the Map
Book Your Audio-Guide for the Lyon Arboretum
Our Honest Review & Rating
Lyon Arboretum is a beautiful and peaceful retreat. The vast array of plants and crops is both impressive and fascinating, making it a perfect place to connect with nature and observe wildlife. It’s an ideal destination for hikes, picnics, romantic walks, relaxation, and capturing memorable photos.
Since this is a rainy region, nature excursions may be less enjoyable in wet weather – so be sure to bring an umbrella or rain jacket. Wheelchairs and strollers have access to the visitor center, micropropagation lab, classrooms, and education department, as well as the following gardens: Betty Ho, Stemmermann Memorial, Young Memorial, and Mapes Garden.
Weather Independent
Spontaneous Booking
For all Fitness Levels
Accessibility
Tour Options, Duration & Cost
Organized Tour
There are audio tours for the Lyon Arboretum available.
Get guided through the Lyon Arboretum
Self-Organized Tour
Duration: The Arboretum opening hours are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. Most visitors stay around 1.5 hours. You can, of course, stay longer if you want to see more sights.
Cost: Admission is free, but donations are requested for 10 USD.
Is Lyon Arboretum Worth It?
For us, it was a definite yes, especially because it felt like a true adventure. Tucked away at the back of Manoa Valley, this isn't a manicured park; it's a real, living rainforest research center, and we loved how wild and authentic it felt.
Here’s our take on who will absolutely love Lyon Arboretum:
- Rainforest and Jungle Lovers: If you want to feel like you're exploring a deep, lush jungle, this is the place. The trails are winding, the plants are enormous, and the whole place feels magically overgrown and alive. It’s less of a garden and more of an expedition.
- Hikers Looking for Variety: There are over 7 miles of trails to explore, leading to hidden corners, scenic viewpoints, and even a waterfall. We loved that we could spend hours wandering and discovering new paths.
- Anyone Visiting Manoa Falls: The arboretum is right next to the Manoa Falls trailhead. We found it to be the perfect addition to the waterfall hike, offering a deeper and more extensive exploration of the beautiful Manoa Valley.
On the other hand, it might not be the right fit if:
- You're not a fan of mud and mosquitoes. This is one of the wettest spots on Oahu. The trails can be very muddy and slippery, and mosquito repellent is an absolute must. We were glad we had ours!
- You're expecting perfectly paved paths and clear signage. The arboretum has a more rustic feel. The trails are well-marked, but they are natural paths, not pristine walkways. It’s part of the charm, but not for everyone.
Our Final Word:
We loved the wild, adventurous spirit of Lyon Arboretum. It felt like a true escape into the heart of a Hawaiian rainforest. If you enjoy hiking and don't mind a bit of mud, we highly recommend spending a few hours getting lost in its beauty.
Where to Stay Near the Lyon Arboretum? - Book Your Accommodation in Oahu
How to Get to the Lyon Arboretum
With an Organized Tour
There are no organized tours to Lyon Arboretum.
On Your Own (Self-Organized)
If you travel by car, follow Manoa Road until it ends just past Paradise Park. Where Manoa Road ends is the entrance to Lyons Arboretum. If you want to travel by bus, take bus route no.5 to Manoa Valley and just get off at the last stop. From there, it is just under 0.6 miles (1 km) walk up.
- Find the Best Price: Renting a car gives you total freedom on Oahu. Use our comparison tool to instantly find the cheapest rate available. Compare car rental prices and save.
What to Pack & Prepare
- Sturdy shoes Women/Men
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito Repellent
- Camera
- Rainjacket
Harold L. Lyon Arboretum: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to make a reservation to visit Lyon Arboretum?
Yes, advance reservations are required for all visitors. This helps the arboretum manage visitor flow and preserve the peaceful atmosphere of the grounds. You can easily book your free time slot on their official website. It's a quick process that ensures you'll have a spot when you arrive.
Is the arboretum really free to enter?
Admission to the Lyon Arboretum is free of charge, but a donation is highly encouraged and appreciated. A suggested donation of around $10 per person helps support the arboretum's important work in conservation, research, and education, allowing them to maintain this beautiful rainforest sanctuary for everyone to enjoy.
How does Lyon Arboretum differ from other botanical gardens on Oahu?
While Oahu has several beautiful botanical gardens, Lyon Arboretum is unique because it's situated in a true tropical rainforest. Its location in the back of the wet Manoa Valley gives it a wilder, more natural feel compared to more manicured gardens. It's also an active research unit of the University of Hawaii, focusing on native Hawaiian plant conservation, making a visit both beautiful and educational.
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