Liliuokalani Gardens - Hawaii

Address:Hilo, Hawaii

Enjoy beautiful Japanese gardens that are both a favorite of tourists and local Hawaiians.

Designed to honor Hawaii's first Japanese immigrants, Liliuokalani Gardens' fish-filled ponds, stone lanterns, half-moon bridges, elegant pagodas and ceremonial teahouse make it a popular tourist spot. Located in the town of Hilo, the Liliuokalani Gardens were named in honor of Hawaii's last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, who in 1898, when Hawaii was annexed to the United States, was forced to give up her throne. Visitors can stroll the 30 acres of Hawaiian and oriental plantings, walkways, pagodas, ponds and bridges and enjoy a picnic lunch in this shaded tropical wonderland, while kids play on the large lawns. Go fishing in the ponds if you like, or bring a swimsuit and walk across to Coconut Island for a cool swim. If you're seeking a more relaxing experience, take a walk down beautiful historic Banyan Drive where many people walk and jog for a breath of fresh air.

Get to Liliuokalani Gardens from Rte 11 South (Kanoelehua) that turns into Banyan Drive. Follow the road past the Naniloa, Uncle Billy's, and Hilo Hawaiian hotels. Turn right after the Hilo Hawaiian hotel. The Liliuokalani Gardens are on your left, and the Coconut Island parking lot is on your right.