Spend a Day at the Breathtaking Kula Botanical Garden

Did you know that there are more than 2,500 kinds of plants found only in the Hawaiian Islands? Native species are common in remote places such as valleys, cliffs, and mountain ridges and peaks. On Maui, the upper reaches of Haleakala National Park hold a wealth of flora and fauna. To learn more about the island’s natural beauty, visit the Kula Botanical Garden! This enchanting place is perfect for an afternoon outdoors. Here are some of our favorite things to see there.

If you’re interested in botany, a trip to the Kula Botanical Garden is a must. There are plenty of other things to do on the island, too! Maui is home to some of the best restaurants, shops, and live entertainment in Hawaii. For a complete, hand-picked list of attractions and activities, download our free Travel Guide!

History of the Kula Botanical Garden

The Kula Botanical Garden was established in 1968 by Warren and Helen McCord. Originally a display for Warren’s landscape architecture business, it has since evolved into an eight-acre oasis. The garden sits at an elevation of 3,300 feet and features a collection of tropical and semi-tropical plants. Guests are welcome to explore and enjoy the waterfalls, rock formations, a covered bridge, and a koi pond.

Fun Fact: Kula was the first public garden to open on the island. If you’re looking for more great places to visit, check out the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens and Kula Lavender Farm!

Plants & Flowers

Kula’s eight acres of exotic plants and flowers draw thousands of visitors each year. Stroll along a gently-flowing stream and admire water-loving plants like fragrant white ginger. Or, visit the grove of lemon eucalyptus trees. Other garden attractions include an Orchid House, Fuschia House, Bromeliad House, a chameleon exhibit, and a bird sanctuary for the endangered Nene bird.

Are you spending Christmas on Maui? You’re in luck! The Kula Botanical Garden is one of the largest growers of Christmas trees in the state of Hawaii. The facility harvests a new crop of Monterey pine trees each year. Wreaths, centerpieces, and cut greens are available throughout November and December.

Tours

Visitors may take a peaceful, self-guided tour through the garden’s flowers, plants, and trees. (Maps are available at the gift shop to help guide you on your walk.) All of the plants have labels with their botanical name, common name, and country of origin. After you wander the paved paths, relax and have lunch at a picnic table on the lanai.

Note: Guided tours of the garden and Christmas tree farm are available with advanced notice. Call (808) 878-1715 for more information.

Gift Shop

No trip to the Kula Botanical Garden is complete without a souvenir! Stop by the gift shop for made-in-Hawaii products and items of botanical interest. The gardens and gift shop are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $3 for children.

Come Home to The Historic Wailuku Inn

The gardens of Kula boast a peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty that make it difficult to leave. Luckily, The Historic Wailuku Inn is a short drive away! Head back to our property for an evening of rest. You can stroll the backyard garden and admire native Hawaiian plants, then drift off to sleep in one of our comfortable accommodations. There’s no better way to unwind after a long day of adventure!

If you’re traveling with a group, consider reserving our Hibiscus Garden Room. This suite can be combined with the Lehua Room by opening the connecting doors. Each features top-notch amenities, a lanai, and a private walled garden. Check our availability and book direct now!