Kahanu Garden

Kahanu Garden is a botanical garden on Maui's northern coast that features an extensive collection of native Hawaiian plants and tropical flora set against black lava landscapes. The site combines cultivated garden areas with natural terrain and provides visitors with detailed information about the region's plant diversity.

The garden was established in 1972 as part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden system dedicated to preserving tropical plant resources. It safeguards traditional Hawaiian agricultural knowledge and practices related to native plant species.

The garden displays traditional Hawaiian practices through its collection of indigenous plants, including taro, sugarcane, and breadfruit varieties used for generations. Visitors can observe how these plants shaped the daily life and food practices of Hawaiian communities.

The garden is accessible year-round and offers walking trails for visitors to explore the collection at their own pace. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the terrain is uneven and paths run over natural lava landscapes.

The garden contains Pilanihale Heiau, an ancient temple built from basalt blocks spanning about 3 acres, representing the largest ancient place of worship in the Hawaiian Islands. This remarkable archaeological site is accessible via garden trails and offers insight into the region's religious and cultural history.

Inception: 1972

GPS coordinates: 20.79917,-156.03833

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:06