Standing at the heart of the historic Kapiolani Park, the scent of sweet, fresh hibiscus meets the breathtaking view of Diamond Head, Oahu's majestic and dormant volcano. On your other side, you'll find the deep reds and delicate pinks of the garden's roses in relief against the sparkling Hawaiian Pacific. Here, inside the park's Queen Kapiolani Hibiscus and Rose Garden, visitors can discover a tranquil place to wander, relax, and simply enjoy Honolulu's exquisite natural beauty.
When King David Kalakaua first donated land for Kapiolani Park in the summer of 1877, he asked that the park be named after his beloved wife, Queen Kapiolani. Almost 100 years later, the Queen Kapiolani Hibiscus and Rose Garden was designed as a special homage to Her Majesty. Opened for the first time in 1972, the garden is a hidden gem inside the 133-acre park, tucked discreetly into the corner where Monsarrat and Paki Avenues intersect.
The garden is home to a gorgeous array of Hawaiian hibiscus plants, a colorful collection of roses, and lush green grass perfect for sitting or barefoot wandering. Look out for the Lokelani Rose, as it is one of Hawaii's most rare and beautiful species. Don't miss the life-sized statue of Queen Kapiolani herself either, where many visitors leave leis and other flowers to honor her. A perfect respite from the concrete jungle of Waikiki, the garden's fragrant flowers and serene atmosphere will undoubtedly refresh and renew anyone who visits it.
Kapiolani Park is especially crowded on weekends, so aim to visit on a weekday morning to find the garden at its most peaceful (you'll also avoid the park's packed parking lots). For the full local experience, go on a Wednesday and check out the People's Open Market, located across the street from the garden. This Oahu farmer's market stays open year-round from 10am-11am every Wednesday, offering a plentiful selection of organic food, crafts, local specialties, fruits and vegetables, and flowers. After enjoying a morning surrounded by Hawaii's finest flowers, you'll likely want to bring home some of your own.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- Open year round, 24-hour access
- Admission:
- Free
- Contact:
- Location: Monsarrat and Paki Avenues (northeast corner of Kapiolani Park), Honolulu, HI
- Website: www.kapiolanipark.org
