Waimea Valley, Botanical garden in North Shore of Oahu, United States

Waimea Valley is a botanical garden and historic nature park on Oahu's North Shore, holding 35 distinct plant collections that represent some 5,000 taxa from around the world. A main path runs about 0.75 miles (1.21 km) up the valley to a small waterfall and swimming hole. A leaf-shaped sign at the entrance lists cultural activities, botanical gardens, a restaurant and a gift shop.

From the 12th century onward, Hawaiian priests settled the valley and made it a center for religious ceremonies and spiritual life. Over time the land became a productive place where people farmed and built advanced water systems to feed families.

Three sacred temples sit at the valley's edges and remain places of reverence for local people today. These sites show how deeply religious spaces are woven into Hawaiian life and identity.

The garden opens daily and guided tours through different sections are offered regularly throughout the day. Wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water is helpful, as trails are uneven and walking through all the areas takes considerable time.

The valley's pondfield terraces were irrigated by a stone-lined canal system fed from the stream, and the garden floor was worked for taro, sweet potato and bananas before Europeans brought orchards and new grains. The main path runs about 1.2 km to a small waterfall and pool.