Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden
A serene botanical sanctuary showcasing Hawaii's native plants and rich ethnobotanical heritage, fostering community and cultural learning.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Volunteer work parties
Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden
Best Time
Volunteer work parties
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene botanical sanctuary showcasing Hawaii's native plants and rich ethnobotanical heritage, fostering community and cultural learning.
"Such a beautiful and peaceful garden to visit. Amazing. Magical. Great place to buy incredible artwork."
Bring Cash for Donations
Entry is free, but donations are vital. Have cash handy or use your smartphone for online giving. :moneybag:
Navigate Parking Wisely
Avoid private drives; turn left at Arthur L. Greenwell Park for designated parking. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Native Hawaiian Plant Collection
Throughout the garden
Wander through diverse ecosystems showcasing plants vital to Hawaiian culture and history. Aina connection is palpable.
Cultural Workshops & Events
Event spaces
Experience hands-on learning of traditional Hawaiian crafts and their significance. Pure magic!
Insect House with Butterflies
Insect House
A delightful spot to observe local butterflies and other native insects in a controlled environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
+1Donations & Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Donations
Entry is free, but donations are vital. Have cash handy or use your smartphone for online giving. :moneybag:
Navigate Parking Wisely
Avoid private drives; turn left at Arthur L. Greenwell Park for designated parking. :car:
Explore the 'Ulu Tree
Sign up for a FREE 'ulu tree on specific dates! Check registration links.
Connect with the Aina
Feel at home and connected to the land and plants. Consider volunteering! :heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Donations
Entry is free, but donations are vital. Have cash handy or use your smartphone for online giving. :moneybag:
Navigate Parking Wisely
Avoid private drives; turn left at Arthur L. Greenwell Park for designated parking. :car:
Explore the 'Ulu Tree
Sign up for a FREE 'ulu tree on specific dates! Check registration links.
Connect with the Aina
Feel at home and connected to the land and plants. Consider volunteering! :heart:
Visit the Farmer's Market
Adjacent to the Sunday market, enjoy food, crafts, and art after your garden visit. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden for its peaceful, magical atmosphere and the educational value of its native plant collection. Many highlight the enriching cultural workshops and the strong sense of community. While entry is free, donations are appreciated, and parking requires a bit of local knowledge.
"Such a beautiful and peaceful garden to visit. Amazing. Magical. Great place to buy incredible artwork. I purchased a beautiful painting by Leila Atkin. So grateful for this experience to Lou and Rosalie."
Anjelika Layco
"It’s a wonderful garden: lush and green, well maintained. You can learn a lot about plants and their use. What I appreciate the most is the cultural workshops bringing the community together by teaching traditional Hawaiian crafts and their meaning. I attended the Kahili workshop, and it was pure magic. Mahalo!"
Olga Alvord
"I really enjoyed my walk through the garden and seeing plants so meaningful to Hawaii. Easy stroll with option of going up a steep, grassy hill to see a forested area (I chose not to go up there). Bring cash for a donation or use your smartphone to make an online donation."
Jan Laman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While Google Maps might suggest a private drive, it's best to turn left at Arthur L. Greenwell Park (near the Manago Hotel) and look for parking in the grass field or street parking.
Yes, there is parking available in a grass field up the street from Arthur L. Greenwell Park, as well as street parking.
From Kailua-Kona, continue south on Hawaii Belt Road and take the next left turn at Arthur L. Greenwell Park.
Information on public transportation routes is limited, but it's advisable to check local bus schedules for Captain Cook. Driving is the most common method.
The garden offers easy strolls, but there's an option to go up a steep, grassy hill. Visitors with mobility concerns may want to stick to the main paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the garden is free. However, donations are highly encouraged to support its maintenance and programs.
The garden is currently open to the public on Sundays from 9 AM to 2 PM. They also host Saturday morning work parties for those interested in volunteering.
Yes, you can make an online donation using your smartphone. An informational map with a web link for donations is available upon entry.
No advance booking is required for general entry. Simply visit during their open hours.
Yes, the garden hosts events like the Annual Grow Hawaiian Festival and offers workshops such as Kahili making. Keep an eye on their announcements for dates.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The garden features a diverse collection of native Hawaiian plants, spread out by ecosystem and habitat, showcasing their cultural and historical significance.
Yes, there are often keiki (children's) activities during special events, and the insect house with butterflies can be a hit.
Photography is generally welcome. Capture the lush greenery and unique plants, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific garden guidelines.
While not explicitly mentioned, the informational map provides details about the garden's family and history, allowing for self-guided exploration.
The garden sometimes offers free 'ulu (breadfruit) trees for pickup on specific dates, often accompanied by agroforestry education and cooking demonstrations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the garden itself may not have a cafe, it's adjacent to the Sunday Farmer's Market which offers great food trucks and local delicacies.
Picnics are possible, especially if you purchase items from the adjacent farmer's market. Enjoying a salad from Cultivate in paradise is a recommended experience.
Yes, special events sometimes include 'ulu cooking demonstrations with local chefs.
The market typically features a variety of food trucks, local crafts, and art, offering a diverse culinary experience.
The adjacent farmer's market is a great place to find local produce, including plants and ingredients for cooking.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse plant collections, the insect house with butterflies, and the lush, green pathways offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Generally, photography is allowed. Be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage within the garden.
During workshops and festivals, capturing the vibrant atmosphere is encouraged, but always be mindful of participants' privacy.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful for plant photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the shade within the garden can help.
There is no specific mention of drone usage. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise to avoid disruption.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The garden's layout provides easy strolls, making it manageable for little legs, though parents might want to be mindful of the option to climb a steeper grassy hill. During special events like the Grow Hawaiian Festival, there are often keiki (children's) activities that add an extra layer of fun and engagement. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about native plants and Hawaiian culture in a relaxed, natural setting. Consider visiting on a Sunday to combine your garden visit with the adjacent farmer's market for a full family day out.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
Each visit promises to be unique, as the garden is constantly evolving and growing. Take your time to explore the informational maps and truly connect with the 'aina. If you're looking for a more immersive experience, consider joining one of the Saturday morning volunteer work parties to contribute to the garden's preservation.
🧑🤝🧑 Culture Seekers
Visiting during special events like the Grow Hawaiian Festival offers a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian heritage, complete with music, artisans, and cultural practitioners. It's an excellent way to gain a deeper appreciation for the island's indigenous roots and the enduring connection between people and nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Ethnobotany in Hawaii
By showcasing plants like the 'ulu (breadfruit), which has been a staple food source for centuries, the garden highlights traditional agricultural practices and their sustainability. Visitors can learn about the medicinal properties of various plants, understanding how ancient Hawaiians utilized the natural world for healing. This immersive experience fosters a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage tied to the land and its botanical bounty.
Experiencing the garden is more than just a walk; it's an opportunity to connect with the 'aina (land) and understand the profound relationship between the Hawaiian people and their environment. The garden's commitment to education, through workshops and informational displays, ensures that this invaluable knowledge is passed on to future generations.
Community Engagement and Volunteering
Beyond physical labor, the garden fosters a sense of belonging and connection. Many visitors express feeling 'at home' and deeply connected to the 'aina and the people they meet there. This community spirit is a significant draw, transforming a visit into a more meaningful and participatory experience.
For those looking to deepen their connection, volunteering is a fantastic way to 'get plugged in.' It's an opportunity to learn more about ethnobotany, traditional Hawaiian crafts, and the ongoing efforts to conserve the island's unique botanical heritage.
Events and Cultural Celebrations
These events often feature hands-on workshops, where attendees can learn traditional Hawaiian crafts like Kahili making, gaining insight into their cultural significance. Such activities provide a tangible connection to the past and a deeper understanding of the living heritage of Hawaii.
Keep an eye out for special announcements, such as the 'ulu tree giveaways, which often coincide with agroforestry education and cooking demonstrations. These events not only promote native plants but also celebrate the culinary traditions associated with them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit