Schmap Kauai Botanical Gardens

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Kauai - Botanical Gardens
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Of five National Tropical Botanical Gardens in the U.S., three of them are on Kaua'i. Two, in fact, are adjacent to each other, making it not only easy but almost necessary to tour them at the same time. Individual tours are also available, but most people choose to see both at the same time.

No matter which park is visited first, the tours begin at the visitor's center, located just across the street from another landmark, Spouting Horn. Tours generally visit the Allerton Tropical Gardens, the McBryde Garden, nearby Allerton House and Queen Emma's Cottage. The guided tours last about two hours, but soon visitors will be able to take self-guided tours.

If one were to try to see all three gardens in one day, the next logical step would be to hop in the car and drive to the north shore, where the gorgeous Limuhuli Valley is located. While the park is several hundred acres, only 17 acres are open to the public. People may choose to explore this garden with or without a guide. Hundreds of exotic and rare plants are cultivated in this mountainous sanctuary just a few moments from the Na Pali Coast.

Just like its neighbor Maui, Kaua'i is deceptive. One would think that a small island in the Pacific, home to relatively few people, would not have much to offer. In reality, however, anyone who has an appreciation for natural beauty, natural history or South Sea culture will find plenty to do and see on the Garden Isle.

Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Allerton Tropical Gardens

Showcasing island flora

Visitor Center--Lawai Road
across the street from Spouting Horn Park
Kauai, HI 96756
United States
+1 808 742 2623

Developed by dynamic landscaping duo Robert and John Allerton, this 100-acre wonderland features a design that is similar to what one might find in a big-city garden, perhaps in London or France. Imposing statues, white marble buildings and cobblestone walks add an artistic touch to the garden's natural beauty. The Hawaiian name is Lawai-kai. It is on the south shore next to the McBryde Gardens, which are also managed by NTBS.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Peter Darbyshire

Photo: Peter Darbyshire

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Renate

Photo: Renate

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by tiabla

Photo: tiabla

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Ami Shah

Photo: Ami Shah

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Clay Noe

Photo: Clay Noe

Photo: Ami Shah

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by PaulSwortz HonuPhoto

Photo: PaulSwortz HonuPhoto

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Rachel Starmer

Photo: Rachel Starmer

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Kevin Dincher

Photo: Kevin Dincher

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Ashley Ewald

Photo: Ashley Ewald

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Michael S. Palmer

Photo: Michael S. Palmer

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Megan Moore

Photo: Megan Moore

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Meenakshi Matai

Photo: Meenakshi Matai

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Yoshi

Photo: Yoshi

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by Kelly Rettinhouse

Photo: Kelly Rettinhouse

Allerton Tropical Gardens photo by jublke9

Photo: jublke9

McBryde Garden

Tropical jewel 3530 Papalina Road
tours depart across from Spouting Horn Park
Kauai, HI 96756
United States
Home to hundreds of native plant species, as well as exotic plants from around the world, this is a must-see for all green thumbs and nature lovers. The property is adjacent to Allerton Gardens, and guided tours include a visit to the neighbor garden as well as Queen Emma's Cottage. This garden is also the headquarters of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens. It houses an extensive research library and an enormous herbarium. Guided tours, which are offered Monday at 9:30a by reservation only, last approximately two-and-one-half hours.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Jeremy Bernstein
Photo: Jay McGavren
Photo: Jeremy Bernstein
Photo: Steve S.
Photo: Steve S.
Photo: Jay McGavren
Photo: Luigi Guarino
Photo: Kim Wakatsuki

Spouting Horn

Natural phenomenon stay back Lawai Road
Kauai, HI 96756
United States
A subject of much myth and legend, not to mention an awesome spectacle, this natural landmark is definitely a must see, but only from a distance. While modern geologists have determined that the fierce saltwater sprays and otherworldly sounds that issue from the Horn are the result of air moving through lava tubes, the ancient Hawaiians chalked it up to an ancient dragon-and-warrior tale. Note: As with any other blowhole, it is imperative that you always keep a safe distance from the rocks and the ocean.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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