Botanical garden- south shore

Question

HI all,

I'd like to visit a botanical garden during our upcoming trip this December. We will be staying in Poipu. The Allerton Gardens guided tour price seem quite steep ($65). I know that there are other gardens on the North Shore but was wondering if there are closer gardens that are at a lesser price point. Thanks!

Answer

Aloha! It’s great to hear you’re planning to explore Kauai’s beautiful botanical gardens during your visit. The Allerton Gardens on the South Shore are indeed a wonderful place to visit, but I understand that the price point for the guided tour can be a bit steep. Fortunately, there are other botanical gardens on the South Shore and around Kauai that may be more affordable. Here are some options:

### 1. McBryde Garden (Part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden)

While this garden is also part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden like Allerton Gardens, the admission is usually a bit less expensive, and you can often enjoy the gardens at your own pace if you opt for the self-guided tour. The McBryde Garden is home to a stunning collection of native Hawaiian plants, and the setting is peaceful and scenic.

Price: Around $25 for adults for self-guided tours (prices may vary)
Location: 4425 Lawai Valley Road, Koloa, HI
Tip: If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience without the higher price of a guided tour, McBryde Garden is a great option.

### 2. Kauai Coffee Company Tour and Garden (Koloa)

If you're looking for something a bit different, the Kauai Coffee Company offers a free self-guided tour of its coffee plantation, which includes a walk through its lovely gardens. While it’s not strictly a botanical garden, you’ll still see a variety of tropical plants in a beautiful setting, and you can learn about the island’s coffee production.

Price: Free
Location: 870 Halewili Rd, Kalaheo, HI
Tip: Great if you enjoy coffee and want to learn more about local agriculture while strolling through lush gardens.

### 3. Poipu Beach Park Garden Area (Public Garden)

For a completely free and easy option, you can explore the small but beautiful gardens located near Poipu Beach Park. While not a full-fledged botanical garden, the landscaping in this area features beautiful tropical plants, and it’s a relaxing place to walk and enjoy nature after a day at the beach.

Price: Free
Location: Poipu Beach Park, Poipu, HI
Tip: Perfect for a quick stroll in between beach time.

### 4. The Lawai International Center (Near the South Shore)

This is a lesser-known gem located not far from the Allerton Gardens. The Lawai International Center is a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscaping and a quiet atmosphere. Though it’s more of a cultural site than a typical botanical garden, it’s a lovely place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the South Shore.

Price: Donations are encouraged, but no fixed price
Location: 770 Lawai Valley Rd, Koloa, HI
Tip: Best for those who enjoy quiet reflection and a spiritual setting.

### 5. Wai'oli Hui'ia Church and the Historic Kauai Gardens (North Shore)

If you’re willing to venture a bit to the North Shore, the historic Kauai Gardens around the Wai'oli Hui'ia Church in Hanalei offer beautiful grounds with stunning views. The gardens are free to explore, though donations are encouraged to maintain the property.

Price: Free (donations welcome)
Location: 5-5161 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI
Tip: A lovely stop if you happen to be in the area; not a large garden, but it has great charm.

### Conclusion

While the Allerton Gardens are certainly beautiful, there are several other more affordable options for botanical experiences on the South Shore and beyond. McBryde Garden offers a great experience for a reasonable price, and Kauai Coffee Company provides a free and scenic option. Additionally, local parks and historic sites like the Lawai International Center offer a peaceful and budget-friendly way to enjoy Kauai’s lush landscapes.

Enjoy your trip, and happy exploring!

Botanical garden- south shore

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