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Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary

4.7
·459 reviews·Captain Cook, United States

A seven-acre botanical sanctuary in South Kona, Hawaii, offering peace, stunning coastal views, and unique themed gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Butterflies are active

CrowdLow
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Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary

Best Time

Morning

Butterflies are active

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A seven-acre botanical sanctuary in South Kona, Hawaii, offering peace, stunning coastal views, and unique themed gardens.

4.7
(459 reviews)

"It is my favorite place on the whole island. It’s super peaceful and incredibly beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Reflect

Take your time to explore the diverse gardens and enjoy the peaceful energy. It's a place to truly relax and breathe.

🦋 Spot the Butterflies

The butterfly garden is a must-see! Visit in the morning for the best chance to see them fluttering among the flowers.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Butterfly Garden

Butterfly Garden

South Kona

A vibrant haven teeming with pollinators and colorful butterflies, offering a magical experience for all ages.

Galaxy Garden

Galaxy Garden

South Kona

A unique garden designed with celestial inspiration, featuring hibiscus and offering a remarkable, almost otherworldly, landscape.

Coastal Views

Coastal Views

Overlooking Kealakekua Bay

Expansive vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the historic 'Place of Refuge' provide a breathtaking backdrop for peaceful contemplation.

Peace Statues

Peace Statues

Throughout the sanctuary

Discover statues and icons representing diverse faith beliefs, fostering a sense of global unity and spiritual harmony.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary is a seven-acre botanical paradise designed for relaxation and reflection. Visitors often highlight its peaceful atmosphere and stunning coastal views, making it an ideal spot to unwind. Arrive ready to stroll and soak in the natural beauty.

Discover Unique Gardens

Explore themed gardens like the 'Galaxy Garden' and the vibrant 'Butterfly Garden,' which is a recent addition and a favorite for many. The sanctuary also features statues and icons representing various faith beliefs, offering an educational and serene experience.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Butterflies are active
Crowd
Low
When
Mid-week
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Always peaceful and beautiful
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#saltlake #saltlakecity #saltlakecityutah #utahtravel #utah #slc #utahgirls #utahgirl
@lauryncakes
19.3K likes • 193.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Reflect

Take your time to explore the diverse gardens and enjoy the peaceful energy. It's a place to truly relax and breathe. Instagram+1

🦋 Spot the Butterflies

The butterfly garden is a must-see! Visit in the morning for the best chance to see them fluttering among the flowers. Instagram+1

📍 Cape Perpetua Did you know Captain Cook, during his 3rd & final voyage of discovery, sighted the cape on March 7, 1778, & named it after Saint Perpetua. She was a third-century female Christian martyr from Carthage, known as the patron saint for expectant mothers. Now you do! What’s your favorite memory from the Oregon Coast? #capeperpetua #capeperpetuaoregon #yachatsoregon #fyp #oregoncoast #...
@oregoncoast
18.3K likes • 264.2K views
Shop local and support talented artists and makers at Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary. From jewelry and books to sarongs and feather art, we have something for everyone! 🎁✨ #paleakugardens #shoplocalhawaii #shoplocal #hawaiimade #holidaygiftguide #bigisland #localartists
paleakugardens
13 likes • 317 views

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera to photograph the stunning coastal vistas and unique garden features. Instagram+1

☕ Enjoy Local Coffee

Sip on some delicious local coffee while you stroll through the gardens. Reddit

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary: Meander through seven acres of a tropical botanical paradise nestled within the heart of South Kona with expansive views overlooking Kealakekua Bay and the National Park “Place of Refuge”.
mario.lim.10
7 likes • 386 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Reflect

Take your time to explore the diverse gardens and enjoy the peaceful energy. It's a place to truly relax and breathe. Instagram+1

🦋 Spot the Butterflies

The butterfly garden is a must-see! Visit in the morning for the best chance to see them fluttering among the flowers. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera to photograph the stunning coastal vistas and unique garden features. Instagram+1

☕ Enjoy Local Coffee

Sip on some delicious local coffee while you stroll through the gardens. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Yoga Classes Available

Check for yoga classes offered in their beautiful studio for a truly healing experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(459 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary for its profound tranquility, stunning natural beauty, and unique themed gardens, particularly the butterfly and galaxy gardens. Many find it a deeply relaxing and healing place with breathtaking coastal views. Some visitors also appreciate the opportunity to attend yoga classes and support local artists.

"There is a beautiful array of plants that are so beautiful. In some areas, you can see all the way to the ocean. They just put in a butterfly garden and all the butterflies were around. It was very relaxing. I highly recommend the visit."

Bethany Pepper

"What a lovely garden. There are so many beautiful native plants & flowers & nice views & spots to be still & soak up the beauty & peaceful energy."

Dana Bannister (ecofriendlyhawaii)

"Beautiful garden with a cool yoga studio.

I accidentally found Joanne’s class on Kona Yoga website.

It was just my hubby and I attending the morning class on Wed. It starts at 10:30am.
This slot isn’t listed in the Paleaku Garden’s website.

Joanne is very friendly and personable. She immediately learned our levels and taught us poses best for us.

After hours of flight, I was feeling still on my whole body and the practice helped ease it.

Great class!

After the practice, we explored the beautiful garden. It was very nice and healing."

M W

What People Like

Profound peace and tranquility
Beautiful native plants and flowers
Stunning coastal views

What People Dislike

Limited dining options on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary is located in Captain Cook, Hawaii, on the Big Island. It's accessible by car, offering expansive views overlooking Kealakekua Bay. Instagram

The sanctuary is nestled in South Kona. While specific directions can vary, it's generally well-regarded as a destination worth seeking out for its unique offerings. Instagram

The gardens are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through seven acres of tropical botanical paradise. Instagram

Yes, the sanctuary is near the 'Place of Refuge' National Historical Park and Heavenly Hawaiian Farms, known for its coffee. Instagram+1

While not explicitly detailed in all sources, parking is generally available for visitors to the sanctuary. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The gardens are open year-round from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, offering ample time to visit and enjoy the serene environment. TikTok

Admission to the International Peace Gardens (a similar concept) is free, and Paleaku Gardens is also generally considered accessible without a strict entry fee, though donations are welcome. TikTok

Advance booking is typically not required for general entry to the gardens. However, if you plan to attend specific events like yoga classes, it's advisable to check their website or contact them directly. Reddit

Yes, Paleaku Gardens hosts yoga classes, which are highly recommended by visitors for their healing and relaxing qualities. Reddit

Visitors can support the sanctuary by purchasing local art, books, and crafts from their shop, which features talented artists and makers. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Explore seven acres of tropical botanical paradise, including a unique Galaxy Garden, a vibrant Butterfly Garden, and statues representing various faiths. Enjoy expansive coastal views and peaceful spots for reflection. Instagram+2

Yes, children often enjoy the Butterfly Garden and the Galaxy Garden, which can be a fun place for hide-and-seek. The peaceful atmosphere is also conducive to a calm family outing. Instagram

The sanctuary features a beautiful array of native plants and flowers, with a special focus on hibiscus in the Galaxy Garden and a dedicated butterfly garden. Instagram+1

Visitors often mention the unique Galaxy Garden, the peaceful statues representing different faiths, and the recently added butterfly garden. They also have their own lava tube that can be viewed. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The diverse flora, stunning coastal views, and unique garden designs make it a photographer's paradise. Instagram+1

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

While not a full-service restaurant, visitors can enjoy good local coffee while exploring the gardens. Reddit

Picnics are generally welcome in many garden settings, but it's always best to check for specific rules regarding outside food and drink. The focus here is on the sanctuary experience. TikTok

For dining options in the Kona area, Super J's and Pine Tree Cafe are often recommended by locals and travelers. Reddit

The sanctuary primarily focuses on its gardens and peace sanctuary aspects. While coffee is available, a full-service cafe is not a primary feature. Reddit

The Kona region is famous for its coffee. You can also find local fruits and other Hawaiian delicacies in nearby towns. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Butterfly Garden, Galaxy Garden, and the panoramic coastal views are prime locations for stunning photographs. Instagram+2

Photography is generally encouraged to capture the beauty of the sanctuary. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. Instagram

Morning light is ideal for capturing the vibrant colors of the flowers and butterflies. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful, soft lighting for the coastal views. Instagram

As with most public spaces, drone usage may be restricted. It's advisable to check with the sanctuary management for their specific drone policy. Instagram

Look for the geckos that often lurk in the plants, capture the intricate details of the flowers, and frame shots with the expansive ocean backdrop. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary offers a delightful experience for families. Kids will be enchanted by the Butterfly Garden, where they can marvel at colorful insects flitting among the flowers. Instagram The Galaxy Garden is also a hit, with its unique design providing a fun space for exploration and even a game of hide-and-seek. Instagram

The sanctuary's peaceful atmosphere is a great way to introduce children to nature and tranquility. It's a place where they can run around safely (within designated areas) and appreciate the beauty of plants and wildlife. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little feet as you explore the seven acres. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Wellness Seekers & Yoga Enthusiasts

For those seeking a restorative experience, Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary is an ideal destination. The serene environment is perfect for meditation and quiet reflection. Instagram Visitors rave about the yoga classes offered in their beautiful studio, describing them as very friendly, personable, and tailored to individual levels. Reddit

Attending a yoga session here can be a deeply healing experience, especially after a long journey. After class, you can further immerse yourself in the peaceful energy by exploring the beautiful gardens and enjoying the calming coastal views. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers

Photographers will find endless inspiration at Paleaku Gardens. The Butterfly Garden offers incredible opportunities to capture delicate insects in their natural habitat, while the Galaxy Garden presents unique, almost surreal, compositions. Instagram+2

The expansive coastal views provide breathtaking backdrops for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. Don't miss the chance to photograph the diverse native flora and perhaps even a local gecko. Instagram The overall peaceful ambiance allows for unhurried shooting, ensuring you can capture the essence of this botanical paradise. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Themed Gardens: A World of Wonder

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary is renowned for its thoughtfully designed themed gardens, each offering a unique experience. The Galaxy Garden is a standout, featuring hibiscus and a celestial layout that transports visitors to another realm. It's described as remarkable and a place where little kids love to play hide-and-seek. Instagram

Another significant attraction is the Butterfly Garden, a recent addition that has quickly become a favorite. This vibrant space is abuzz with pollinators and butterflies, creating a magical and serene atmosphere. Visitors often express delight at the sheer number of butterflies present, making it a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike. Instagram+1

Beyond these, the sanctuary is home to a beautiful array of native plants and flowers, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Hawaii. The gardens provide a peaceful setting for contemplation and appreciation of nature's artistry. Instagram+1

Peace and Spirituality

True to its name, Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary is a place designed to foster a sense of peace and global unity. The sanctuary features statues and icons representing various faith beliefs, creating an environment that is both educational and spiritually uplifting. Instagram+1

Visitors often comment on the profound sense of peace and harmony they experience while wandering through the gardens. It's described as an incredibly beautiful and healing place, perfect for sitting, breathing, and soaking in the positive energy. InstagramReddit

This spiritual aspect, combined with the natural beauty, makes Paleaku Gardens a unique destination for those seeking a tranquil escape and a moment of reflection on interconnectedness and well-being. Instagram

Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips

Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, from intricate floral details to sweeping ocean vistas. The Butterfly Garden is a prime spot, especially in the morning when butterflies are most active, though capturing them in flight can be a challenge for photographers. Instagram+1

The Galaxy Garden provides a unique, almost otherworldly backdrop, while the coastal views overlooking Kealakekua Bay offer dramatic and serene scenes. Don't forget to look for the local geckos that often inhabit the plants, adding a touch of local wildlife to your shots. Instagram

For the best results, consider visiting during the morning hours for vibrant colors and active wildlife, or during the late afternoon for the soft glow of golden hour on the ocean. Instagram

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