Private day tour - Botanical Gardens

Question

I’m looking for a private tour guide with a focus on the gardens of Kauai. We are visiting for a day from Oahu (group of 2 adults) & would be looking for someone who can pick us up & drop us back at the airport.

Our primary interest is to see Allerton Gardens & take their “best of both worlds” tour which runs regularly during the day. We’d ideally also like to see Limahuli gardens, although I am not sure how practical that might be. We are both passionate about gardens (one is a professional gardener) but also happy to see other sites. We are British & both early 50s, fit & healthy so able to walk / hike etc. Hawaii is a loooong way for us, so we’d love to make the most of it!

All recommendations & thoughts most appreciated!

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a fantastic day on Kauai, focusing on the island's stunning botanical gardens! Kauai is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse gardens in Hawaii, and a private tour will give you a great opportunity to explore them at your own pace. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your day:

1. Private Tour Guides: There are a number of private tour guides and companies that specialize in custom tours of Kauai’s natural beauty, including its botanical gardens. Given that you're interested in both Allerton Gardens and Limahuli Gardens, it’s definitely possible to arrange a tour that covers both, though it will be a fairly full day given the distances between them. Here are a couple of options to consider for private tours:

Hawaii Tour Guides – They offer personalized, private tours on Kauai and can provide transportation, guide services, and custom itineraries. They have extensive knowledge of local gardens, including Allerton and Limahuli Gardens, and can design a tour tailored to your interests.
Kauai Nature Tours – This company specializes in guided tours of Kauai’s natural attractions, including its lush gardens. They can arrange for a tour that incorporates both Allerton and Limahuli Gardens, along with additional garden-focused stops or hikes if time permits.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters – While this is more of a helicopter tour option, Blue Hawaiian also offers botanical garden-focused tours by air, which could provide a unique perspective if you’re interested in seeing Kauai’s gardens from the sky.

2. Allerton Gardens and Limahuli Gardens: - Allerton Gardens (also known as the National Tropical Botanical Garden) is one of the most famous gardens on Kauai and offers stunning views of the coastline. The “Best of Both Worlds” tour you mentioned is a great option, as it allows visitors to explore both the Allerton and McBryde Gardens, which are located in the same area. You’ll see lush tropical plants, water features, and a variety of plant species from around the world. - Limahuli Gardens, located on the north shore, is another gem, with a focus on native Hawaiian plants and conservation. It’s a little more remote compared to Allerton Gardens, but if you’re passionate about gardens, it’s definitely worth a visit. The drive between Allerton Gardens (on the south shore) and Limahuli Gardens can take around 45 minutes, so it would be ideal to factor in the drive time if you’re planning to visit both gardens in one day.

3. Other Garden & Nature Options: Since you both have a passion for gardens and nature, you might also consider a visit to these other botanical spots on Kauai: - Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens – A little further up the north shore, these gardens offer beautifully landscaped areas with sculptures, themed gardens, and beachfront views. While not always included in standard garden tours, it’s an excellent option for those who want to see more of Kauai’s diverse plant life. - Koke’e State Park – If you enjoy hiking, this park offers amazing vistas and native flora, and you could take a short hike to explore the island’s natural beauty. - Spouting Horn and Kukuiula Harbor – These are not botanical gardens, but they’re scenic areas you may enjoy, offering beautiful coastal views and wildlife sightings.

4. Logistics for the Day: - Transportation: Since you’re arriving from Oahu, it’s important to ensure that your private tour guide provides pickup and drop-off at the airport, especially if you’re coming in on a tight schedule. Many tour companies can arrange airport transfers as part of a full-day tour package. - Timing: A visit to both Allerton and Limahuli Gardens will likely take up most of the day, so it’s important to plan the tour time carefully. The “Best of Both Worlds” tour at Allerton takes around 2.5 hours, and Limahuli Gardens generally takes around 1-1.5 hours to fully explore. If you're planning on both, you should expect a full day.

5. Final Thoughts: Kauai’s natural beauty and gardens are truly one-of-a-kind, and with your interest and expertise in gardens, you’re sure to have a wonderful day exploring the islands' diverse plant life. If you're pressed for time or want to minimize the driving, focusing on one garden, like Allerton or Limahuli, may be ideal. If you prefer to see both, a well-organized private tour will help ensure you make the most of your time.

Enjoy your day on Kauai, and have a fantastic anniversary celebration!