The Little Known Natural Oasis Hiding In Hawaii That's Impossible Not To Love
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Megan Shute
Author
The Hawaiian Islands may be known for their incredible beaches, but that’s not all there is to love about the tropical paradise we call home. In fact, I believe we can all agree that some of Hawaii’s most incredible hidden gems are found only when we head inland; this is certainly the case of Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens, a little-known 400-acre natural oasis tucked away in Kaneohe, on Oahu’s windward coast.
Once you drive through Ho’omaluhia’s entrance, you will be immediately surrounded by a magnificent garden full of vibrant, tropical flora that stretches on for miles. Exhale, and you will surely feel your stress melt away as you enjoy the scenery.
Nestled at the base of the majestic Ko’olau Mountains, this peaceful refuge was established in 1982, and designed and built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers for flood protection.
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Emphasis is placed on conserving plants native to Hawaii, though the garden is home to tropical plants from around the world, including distinct areas housing flora from Sri Lanka, Africa, India, Malaysia, and Polynesia, among other tropical destinations.
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But the real gem of this lush, jewel-green oasis is one of Hawaii’s few freshwater lakes; at 32 acres across, the unnamed lake’s sheltered location keeps its waters clear, clean, and teeming with life.
On Saturdays and Sundays, visitors are encouraged to participate in the garden’s catch and release fishing program - a fun event for the whole family.
On Saturdays and Sundays, visitors are encouraged to participate in the garden’s catch and release fishing program - a fun event for the whole family.
Oh, and fun fact: the lake is actually a dammed up reservoir that was dug out in the 1970s in order to save nearby residents from deadly flood waters that had overwhelmed the area.
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Ho’omaluhia is also home to countless walking and bike trails, a day use area, campgrounds, and a visitor center with an exhibition hall, workshop and botanical library.
We suggest taking the Hoomaluhia Lake and Stream Trails - a short and sweet 1.5-mile excursion around the peaceful lake and through verdant forests.
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Part of the Honolulu Botanical Gardens, this natural oasis is open daily and free to the public. It is an idyllic spot for a leisurely stroll, scenic drive, a fishing trip, or even a camping destination.
Have you ever visited this gorgeous Hawaii gem? Don’t forget to check out these 16 beautiful Hawaiian botanical gardens, as well as these 19 magnificent hidden gems.
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