Lyon Arboretum

A 200-acre University of Hawaii research garden deep in the back of Manoa Valley — rainforest trails, native Hawaiian plants, and a small waterfall, usually with more birdsong than people. Free with a suggested $10 donation. The catch: weekdays only (9am-3pm, closed weekends and holidays), and it rains up there — that's why it's green.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Lyon Arboretum by bus?

TheBus route 5 from Ala Moana runs up Manoa Rd to near the end of the line; from there it's a short uphill walk past Paradise Park to the arboretum entrance. About 40-50 minutes total from Waikiki.

Can I picnic at Lyon Arboretum?

There are a few quiet spots near the visitor center where a low-key snack is fine — pack out everything. No commercial food up the valley, so bring what you need.

Is Lyon Arboretum free?

Yes — open to the public with a suggested donation of $10 per person, which genuinely supports the University of Hawaii's conservation work. Sign in at the visitor center when you arrive.

What are Lyon Arboretum's hours?

Monday through Friday, 9am to 3pm — closed weekends and state and federal holidays, which surprises a lot of visitors. Check their site before going; occasional construction or weather closures happen.

Do I need a reservation for Lyon Arboretum?

Not currently — reservations aren't required, though they were during past visitor-cap periods, so it's worth a glance at manoa.hawaii.edu/lyon before you go. Groups should call ahead.

What will I see at Lyon Arboretum?

Rainforest gardens with thousands of tropical plant species, native Hawaiian plants they're actively working to save, giant palms and gingers, and 'Aihualama Falls at the back — a modest, pretty cascade about a mile in. It feels like a botanical wilderness, not a manicured park.

Is Lyon Arboretum stroller or wheelchair friendly?

The area near the visitor center has some manageable paths, but most trails are unpaved, rooty, and often muddy. Real shoes, not slippers — and mosquito repellent is non-negotiable in Manoa.

Lyon Arboretum vs Manoa Falls — which trail?

They start from nearly the same road-end. Manoa Falls is the bigger waterfall and the bigger crowd; Lyon is quieter, better labeled, more varied, and donation-based. Do Lyon on a weekday if you want the valley mostly to yourself; do both if you have a morning.

Nearby in Ask Honolulu

• Lyon ArboretumAttraction0.1 km · 1 min walk
• Manoa Falls TrailPark0.21 km · 3 min walk
• Mānoa Falls TrailAttraction0.45 km · 6 min walk
• ManoaNeighborhood2.03 km · 25 min walk
• Morning Glass Coffee + CafeCafé2.59 km · 32 min walk