The World Botanical Gardens opened to the public on July 4, 1995. It already claims to have the largest variety of plants in the state of Hawaii, with more than 5,000 species on display. Moreover, the site is planning to expand its garden sanctuary to over 30,000 species in the years ahead, making it one of the world's top botanical destinations.
The Gardens are located on 300 acres of former sugarcane fields. One of the most splendid natural features here is triple-tiered Umauma Falls, which was previously concealed from view. Since its development as a sightseeing attraction, however, it has been acclaimed by many as Hawaii's most beautiful waterfall.
The waters of Umauma fall 300 feet in total, cascading in three separate drops into tranquil gathering pools, looking much like great lava stone steps. The pools are beautifully surrounded by tropical plants and trees. During flood season, however, the rush of water turns the falls into an almost steady river-like current, so it is best to visit between rainy periods.
Umauma Falls can be reached by car directly from the entrance to the World Botanical Gardens. The road begins just across the street from the main ticket booth. It can be somewhat bumpy as the road passes by marked native trees. At its end, there is a small parking lot adjacent to the lookout for the falls.
Beyond the parking lot, the road is paved, leading to yet another small parking lot. Across the road from here is an asphalt walkway that curves through magnificent tropical vegetation, including flowering torch ginger and bird of paradise. This area is especially photogenic, so visitors are advised to bring plenty of film - and also some insect repellent to ward of the mosquitoes that thrive here.
A number of other water features can be seen along the rainforest walk through the World Botanical Gardens, including Umauma River and a cascading brook that borders the trail. Kamaee Falls is also quite popular, a single gushing torrent that drops several dozen feet into a pristine pool.
Back near the ticket booth, other walkways lead into the foliage, where such tropical fruit trees as mango, guava, papaya, banana, and breadfruit are clearly marked. There is also a patch of corn that has been made into a maze for children to explore - the largest of its kind on the Big Island.
Scenic stops along the walkways yield 360-degree vistas and sweeping ocean views, as the trails lead 1.5 miles up the slope of the extinct Mauna Kea volcano to the west. There is an 80-meter-long wall covered with wild orchids by the hundreds, and the Gardens' colorful "Rainbow Walk'' includes 100 species of Bromeliads. An arboretum has recently been opened, and there are plans to add a zip line for a bit of extra adventure, too.
The World Botanical Gardens are open daily from 9am to 5:30pm. The cost of admission is $13 for adults; $6 for teens aged 13~17 and kama'aina (local residents). Children aged 5~12 are admitted for $3, and those under age 5 are free. Guided tours led by garden director and horticulture expert Dr. Lanny Neel can be arranged, with lunch included, and they last approximately two hours. Self-guided tours may be taken any time during operating hours.
The World Botanical Gardens are located off State Highway 19 near mile marker #16. Take the exit at Umauma and turn left, inland, on Leopolino Road. From there, simply follow the signs to the Garden Registration area. The address is 31-123 Leopolino Road, Honomu, Hawaii 96728.
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