Foster Botanical Garden photo
ParkHawaii, US

Foster Botanical Garden

Foster Botanical Garden is Honolulu's oldest botanical garden, a tranquil oasis in the city.

About

Foster Botanical Garden is Honolulu's oldest botanical garden, a tranquil oasis in the city. This 13.5-acre botanical sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from urban bustle, showcasing a magnificent collection of mature tropical plants, many of which are rare and endangered. It stands as a living museum, preserving plant diversity and offering a unique glimpse into the botanical heritage of Hawaii and the world.

Visitors can explore diverse themed sections, including the ancient Prehistoric Glen with its fascinating cycads, the vibrant Lyon Orchid Garden displaying a world-class collection of Old and New World orchids, and the Economic Garden featuring plants used for herbs, spices, and beverages. The garden is also home to an impressive array of "Exceptional Trees," protected by city ordinance, such as the sacred Bodhi Tree, a towering Kapok, and a massive Baobab. Keep an eye out for the rare Corpse Flower in the Conservatory, which, when it blooms, draws crowds with its unique (and famously pungent) display.

A visit to Foster Botanical Garden is a journey through botanical history and natural beauty, providing a peaceful setting for contemplation, education, and stunning photography. Whether you're a serious plant enthusiast or simply seeking a serene environment amidst the vibrant city, the garden's towering trees, lush landscapes, and diverse flora create a memorable and inspiring experience that connects visitors with the natural world. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

buffs * Couples and individuals seeking a peaceful escape * Families interested in educational botanical experiences

What to do here

Take a self-guided tour using the provided map, or join a free docent-led tour offered at 10:30 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday (Thursdays added starting March 2026). Reservations are recommended for guided tours. Enjoy the peaceful strolls and photograph the unique plant species.

Seasonal info

The garden's tropical climate ensures year-round beauty. The winter and spring seasons often feature more dramatic flowering trees. Midday can be quite warm and sunny, so plan accordingly.

Accessibility

The garden features interconnected walkways. Recent renovations in 2023 included redesigned landscaping, a new entrance, and a new ramp to improve accessibility. The paths are mostly flat.

Don't miss

1

Prehistoric Glen

Features ancient cycads and other primitive plants.

2

Lyon Orchid Garden & Conservatory

Displays a rich collection of Old and New World orchid species and rare tropical foliage plants.

3

Exceptional Trees

Look for the sacred Bodhi Tree, a massive Kapok, the Cannonball Tree, the Baobab, and the Loulu Palm, among others.

4

Economic Garden

Showcases plants with economic importance, including herbs, spices, and beverage plants.

Wildlife you might spot

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Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable shoes

The garden features interconnected pathways, and while mostly flat, you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.

Bring water and insect repellent

Especially during warmer months or midday visits, staying hydrated and protecting against insects is advisable.

Visit early or late

To avoid the midday heat and larger crowds, plan your visit for the morning or late afternoon for a more serene experience and better photographic light.

Take a guided tour

The free docent-led tours (check schedule and reserve ahead) offer invaluable insights into the garden's history and plant collections.

Don't miss the Conservatory

This indoor greenhouse houses beautiful orchids and other rare tropical foliage plants, a true photographer's paradise.

Utilize free parking

On-site parking is free and generally ample, making access convenient.

Frequently asked questions

Foster Botanical Garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except for Christmas Day (December 25th) and New Year's Day (January 1st). Admission for adults is $5, Hawaii residents pay $3, children aged 6-12 are $1, and children under 5 are free. An annual family pass is available for $25.
Yes, Foster Botanical Garden offers free docent-led tours to the public at 10:30 AM every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Starting in March 2026, Thursdays will also be added to the tour schedule. These tours typically last 90 minutes. Space is limited, so making a reservation by calling (808) 768-7135 or emailing hbg@honolulu.gov is recommended. Self-guided tours with maps are also available.
Foster Botanical Garden is home to several unique and exceptional plants. Highlights include the sacred Bodhi Tree (a descendant of the tree under which Buddha gained enlightenment), the rare Corpse Flower (which emits a strong odor when it blooms), the majestic Cannonball Tree, ancient Prehistoric Cycads, and the native Loulu Palm. The garden also features a diverse collection of orchids and numerous "Exceptional Trees" recognized for their historical or cultural value.

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