Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
A 30-acre oasis of Edo-style Japanese gardens, koi ponds, and serene landscapes dedicated to Hawaii's last queen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 30-acre oasis of Edo-style Japanese gardens, koi ponds, and serene landscapes dedicated to Hawaii's last queen.
"This stunning park is a free, serene escape with beautiful Japanese gardens and plenty of shade."
🚶♀️ Stroll or Skate
Enjoy a leisurely walk or rollerblade along the paths for a scenic workout.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Grab plate lunches nearby and enjoy a serene picnic under the shade of banyan trees.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edo-Style Japanese Gardens
Throughout the park
Wander through meticulously maintained gardens featuring pagodas, stone lanterns, and tranquil ponds.
Koi Ponds and Arching Bridges
Central garden areas
Admire vibrant koi swimming in serene ponds, crossed by picturesque, arching bridges.
Japanese Teahouse
Near the water
Discover the charming teahouse, now a unique restroom facility, offering a glimpse into traditional architecture.
Banyan Trees and Lava Rock
Park perimeter
Relax under the shade of majestic banyan trees, with the unique textures of lava flow adding to the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Free Entry, Priceless Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll or Skate
Enjoy a leisurely walk or rollerblade along the paths for a scenic workout. 
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Grab plate lunches nearby and enjoy a serene picnic under the shade of banyan trees.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
🤝 Volunteer Opportunities
Consider joining the 'Friends of Liliuokalani Gardens' for park clean-up events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll or Skate
Enjoy a leisurely walk or rollerblade along the paths for a scenic workout.
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Grab plate lunches nearby and enjoy a serene picnic under the shade of banyan trees.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
🤝 Volunteer Opportunities
Consider joining the 'Friends of Liliuokalani Gardens' for park clean-up events.
🐱 Local Feline Friends
You might encounter friendly local cats during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Liliuokalani Park and Gardens for its stunning beauty, free admission, and tranquil atmosphere. Many highlight the well-maintained Japanese gardens, serene ponds, and calming ambiance, making it a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely strolls. Some note the heat and limited restroom facilities, but overall, it's considered a must-visit gem in Hilo.
"Very beautiful gardens. This place was amazing. 8 bus loads of people, but had plenty of space to wonder around without tripping on everyone. The gardens just happened to have a contest on flower designs. I tried to capture of of them , but it started to rain harder, then a light drizzle, so I made my way back to the bus."
Cynthia Vassar
"Beautiful grounds without a Tea Garden (but 2 restaurant/grills on site.) High water levels did not permit access to all the features and the bridge was also "off limits." However, still a recommended spot for walking, banyan and other tree/flora appreciation."
Preston Redding
"Great place to spend some time walking around and enjoying the greenery. Has a bridge where one can walk to coconut island. However, the bridge recently collapsed and is probably under renovation. Has restrooms"
varsha b
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens is conveniently located southeast of downtown Hilo, on the Waiakea Peninsula. It's a pleasant 35-minute walk from the Hilo cruise pier terminal and is easily accessible by car with plenty of parking available.
Yes, the park offers plenty of free parking, making it easy for visitors to access the gardens.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy the scenic 35-minute walk from the Hilo cruise pier terminal to the park.
You can explore the park on foot, enjoying a leisurely stroll through the gardens. Some visitors also enjoy rollerblading along the paths.
While specific public transport routes might vary, the park is centrally located in Hilo and generally accessible. Checking local Hilo bus schedules would be advisable for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Entry to Liliuokalani Park and Gardens is completely free!
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset, offering ample time to explore its beauty. It's recommended to visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during park hours.
No, the entire Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, including the Japanese-inspired sections, is free to enter.
Yes, many cruise passengers visit the park. It's a popular destination and a manageable walk from the Hilo cruise pier.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Edo-style Japanese gardens, serene koi ponds with arching bridges, a traditional teahouse (now a restroom), and majestic banyan trees.
Yes, it's a wonderful spot for families to enjoy a picnic, explore the grounds, and connect with nature.
Yes, there is a restroom facility, which is the former teahouse. +1 It's noted that there is one stall for the women's bathroom.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for picnics, with many families and individuals enjoying meals under the shade of the large banyan trees.
The park features a variety of lush greenery, including impressive banyan trees, and is known for its Japanese garden flora.
📸 📸 Photography
The arching bridges over the koi ponds, the Japanese pagodas, and the serene teahouse are particularly photogenic. The lush greenery and unique textures of the lava rock also offer great shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive setups.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management for current rules regarding drone operation in public spaces.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive garden views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's an ideal spot for a relaxed picnic after grabbing some local plate lunches from nearby eateries. While there's a single restroom facility, it's advisable to be prepared.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
It's also a great place for a refreshing jog or rollerblading session, offering scenic routes and a chance to get some exercise amidst beautiful surroundings.
+1 The free entry and ample parking make it an easy and rewarding stop for anyone exploring Hilo on their own.📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1 The interplay of light and shadow under the banyan trees also provides unique photographic opportunities. Art lovers will appreciate the deliberate design and aesthetic principles of the Edo-style gardens. The harmonious arrangement of natural and man-made elements creates a living work of art.
Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon will enhance the photographic potential with softer, more dramatic lighting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Queen Liliuokalani
+1 The park was dedicated in 1917, and much of its current design, particularly the Edo-style Japanese gardens, was established between 1917 and 1919. This historical context adds a layer of cultural richness to the visitor experience. Visitors often feel a connection to the Queen's legacy as they wander through the tranquil grounds. The park serves as a living tribute to her generosity and the enduring cultural ties between Hawaii and Japan.
The 'Friends of Liliuokalani Gardens' group actively works to maintain and restore the park, ensuring that this historical and natural treasure continues to thrive for future generations. Exploring the Japanese Garden Design
+1 Visitors can admire traditional elements such as pagodas, stone lanterns, and serene koi ponds, all designed to evoke a sense of peace and natural beauty.The iconic arching bridges that span the koi ponds are a central visual element, offering picturesque views and perfect photo opportunities.
The Japanese teahouse, though now repurposed as a restroom facility, still retains its architectural charm and adds to the overall ambiance of the garden. Many visitors find the gardens to be a deeply calming and meditative space. The combination of water features, lush greenery, and traditional Japanese design elements fosters a sense of serenity and connection with nature.
Wildlife and Nature Encounters
Tragically, the park has also been a site where native Hawaiian Nēnē (geese) have attempted to nest, though not always successfully due to threats like predators.
The diverse plant life, including the impressive banyan trees, contributes to the park's ecological value.
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