Moanalua Gardens Honolulu
A tranquil 24-acre park in Honolulu, famed for its majestic Monkey Pod tree and serene atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Moanalua Gardens Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil 24-acre park in Honolulu, famed for its majestic Monkey Pod tree and serene atmosphere.
"Discover the serene beauty of Moanalua Gardens, a peaceful oasis with spectacular trees."
Check Reopening Status
The park has reopened, but confirm before you go. Recent visitors confirm it's open! :ticket:
Bring Cash for Entry
Admission fees apply. Some visitors find it a bit pricey for the experience. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Famous Monkey Pod Tree
Central lawn
An iconic, sprawling tree with branches that twist and turn, famously wrapping around a palm tree.

Koi Pond and Ducks
Near the entrance
A serene spot to observe colorful koi fish and ducks. Feeding them is a popular family activity.
Rare Plantings
Throughout the gardens
Discover a variety of mature trees and unique flora, offering a tranquil escape.
Planning Your Visit
Reopening and Admission
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Reopening Status
The park has reopened, but confirm before you go. Recent visitors confirm it's open! :ticket:
Bring Cash for Entry
Admission fees apply. Some visitors find it a bit pricey for the experience. :moneybag:
Feed the Koi & Ducks
Purchase food at the entrance for a delightful family activity. :duck: :fish:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the park to admire the trees and scenery. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Reopening Status
The park has reopened, but confirm before you go. Recent visitors confirm it's open! :ticket:
Bring Cash for Entry
Admission fees apply. Some visitors find it a bit pricey for the experience. :moneybag:
Feed the Koi & Ducks
Purchase food at the entrance for a delightful family activity. :duck: :fish:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the park to admire the trees and scenery. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy the Monkey Pod Tree
Don't miss the famous, uniquely shaped Monkey Pod tree. It's a photo highlight! :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Moanalua Gardens is praised for its stunning, mature trees, particularly the iconic Monkey Pod, and its peaceful atmosphere, making it a serene escape. Visitors enjoy feeding the koi and ducks, and the clean restrooms are a plus. However, some find the admission fee a bit high for the experience, and the inaccessible former royal guest house is a point of disappointment for a few.
"Garden?
I would characterize this as a park with some very beautiful large trees and plenty of mango 🥭 trees among them.
Although some call this botanical but it is far from it for one, the former royalty 👑 guest house 🏠 or retreat isn't accessible to the public for years as we were told.
Just one restroom 🚻 by the main entrance and for our surprise, the restrooms are very clean and neat.
Overall a little disappointed not have anything discovered except trees, the freeway right next to this park didn't help with the constant noise.
The admission even for locals isn't justified whatsoever, out of state visitors find out the hard way."
HosFar FarHos
"It's really peaceful and nice to walk around or just enjoy the scenery. It's not very big, but it's big enough. My daughter and wife enjoyed feeding the ducks and koi fish. It was a great experience for my family."
Kalama
"The trees are spectacular, we just walked around for 30 mins or so, and fed the ducks and the koi with food we purchased at the entrance. The public bathrooms are nice. The ducks and the fish were a highlight. There are picnic tables. The admission is for the whole day so you could leave and go get food and come back later to picnic. Has a famous Hitachi tree."
Carolyn Grasso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moanalua Gardens is located near the Honolulu International Airport. Driving is the most convenient way to reach it. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options might be limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, there is parking available at Moanalua Gardens. Some visitors have noted that paid parking might be implemented, so it's good to be prepared for that possibility.
While specific routes can change, it's generally recommended to check TheBus schedules for routes that go near Moanalua Gardens. Driving is often considered more straightforward for tourists.
Moanalua Gardens is about a 15-20 minute drive from Waikiki, depending on traffic conditions. It's a relatively short trip, making it a feasible half-day excursion.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Honolulu and can be a convenient way to get to Moanalua Gardens if you don't have a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter Moanalua Gardens. While some locals might find it a bit high, it's generally considered worth it for the unique trees and peaceful atmosphere.
Moanalua Gardens has reopened to the public. It's best to check their official website or recent visitor reports for the most current operating hours, as these can sometimes vary.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not widely available. Typically, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at the gardens.
The admission fee is generally per person. It's advisable to confirm the exact pricing structure upon arrival or by checking their official channels.
While some attractions offer resident discounts, it's not explicitly mentioned for Moanalua Gardens. It's always a good idea to inquire at the entrance or check their website for any potential local rates.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the beautiful, mature trees, especially the famous Monkey Pod tree. You can also enjoy feeding the koi and ducks, and simply strolling through the peaceful grounds.
Yes, families often enjoy Moanalua Gardens. Feeding the koi and ducks is a highlight for kids, and the open spaces are great for them to explore.
Yes, there are picnic tables available, and the admission fee often allows you to leave and return for a picnic later in the day. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, there are public restrooms located near the main entrance. Visitors have noted they are generally clean and well-maintained.
The 'Hitachi Tree' is the popular name for the large Monkey Pod tree in Moanalua Gardens, known for its impressive, sprawling branches that create a unique, almost sculptural form.
📸 📸 Photography
The Monkey Pod tree is a must-photograph. The koi pond and the lush greenery also offer beautiful shots. Early morning light can be particularly stunning.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Moanalua Gardens. It's a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the unique trees and serene landscape.
While personal photography is fine, professional shoots or extensive equipment might require special permits. It's best to check with the garden management if you plan on a professional photoshoot.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing look.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most parks and gardens to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. It's highly unlikely to be permitted without explicit authorization.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open lawns provide space for kids to move around, and the impressive Monkey Pod tree is sure to spark their imagination. While it's not a playground, the natural beauty and the chance to interact with the pond life offer a delightful experience for younger visitors. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking.
📸 Photographers
Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the beauty of the gardens, casting a warm glow on the lush greenery and the majestic trees. The koi pond also provides opportunities for serene shots. While personal photography is encouraged, be mindful of any restrictions on professional equipment or extensive setups.
🌳 Nature Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
Take your time to stroll through the grounds, admire the diverse flora, and find a quiet spot to simply sit and enjoy the tranquility. The gardens offer a different kind of Hawaiian beauty, focusing on the serene power of nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Monkey Pod Tree
Visitors are often awestruck by its presence, describing it as a living sculpture. The tree provides ample shade, making it a popular spot to relax and admire nature's artistry. Its distinctive form is a testament to years of growth and the unique microclimate of the gardens.
While the tree itself is the main draw, its surrounding lawn offers a perfect setting for photos, picnics, and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere of the gardens. It's a truly memorable natural landmark that defines the Moanalua Gardens experience.
A Peaceful Urban Oasis
While not a traditional botanical garden with extensive labeled collections, its charm lies in its simplicity and the grandeur of its trees. The presence of a koi pond and ducks adds to the serene environment, providing a gentle soundtrack to your visit. It's a place where you can wander, reflect, and appreciate the natural elements.
Many visitors find the gardens to be a place of 'energy' and 'spirit,' offering a chance for 'tree hugging' and a connection with nature. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet picnic, or simply to enjoy a moment of peace amidst the vibrant Hawaiian landscape.
Visitor Experience and Value
However, some visitors express reservations about the admission fee, particularly for out-of-state tourists, feeling that the experience might be underwhelming for the cost. The former royal guest house is also noted as being inaccessible for years, which some feel limits the historical exploration aspect of the visit. The constant noise from the nearby freeway is another point of contention for some.
Despite these criticisms, many still find value in the unique natural beauty and the tranquil escape Moanalua Gardens provides. It's often described as a 'beautiful park' with 'spectacular trees' that offers a different kind of Hawaiian experience beyond the typical beach attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit