garden tours in kauai

• Allerton Garden
• Kahanu Garden

Limahuli Garden & Preserve

• McBryde Garden
• The Kampong Garden
• Book a Tour

Kauaʻi Garden Tours

South shore | north shore.

South Shore Tours

Allerton garden & mcbryde garden, for more information, please call (808) 742-2623.

Please comply with all posted signs and safety precautions. Advanced reservations are encouraged as we are often booked out at least 24 hours in advance.

Adults $65 • Children (2-12) $32.50 • Member $48.75

For visitors who want a taste of both worlds, this is the tour! Our highly-trained interpretive guides takes guests through select Allerton Garden rooms and McBryde Garden highlights. Enjoy the greatest aspects of both gardens. Whether you are seeking that perfect picture of you with the Jurassic Park Trees or have limited time, this is it! View select rooms in the Allerton Garden, named one of the ’50 Places of a Lifetime’ by National Geographic Traveler. Then have a guided experience through our McBryde Garden, an active conservation and research garden with active interpretation and Hawaiian cultural significance.

Notices: 24-hour cancellation notice required for refunds, groups of 8+ require 5 days advance notice for refund. Closed toe shoes or secured hiking sandals are required. Please arrive 30 minutes prior departure. All tours require a bus ride into the garden. Buses leave on time and do not return for guests arriving after departure. Mahalo

Allerton Garden is a masterpiece of landscape architecture named one of the ’50 Places of a Lifetime’ by National Geographic Traveler. Guided tours of Allerton Garden are part garden tour, part art exhibit and entirely unique. Visitors are guided through expertly crafted garden rooms that feature exotic plants, sculptures, and water features. Allerton Garden also has a rich history as a Hollywood film location for many notable movies and TV shows. See the towering roots of the famous Moreton Bay fig trees featured in blockbusters such as Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Adults $30 • Children (2-12) $15 • Member Adults FREE

McBryde Garden visitors can explore 50 acres of diverse plant collections including Hawaiian native and ethnobotanical species, palms, rubiaceae (coffee family), zingiberales (heliconia family), and erythrina (coral trees). Appreciate the importance of sustainable farming in our Regenerative Organic Breadfruit Orchard, and take a journey back in time in the Hawaiian Life Canoe Plant Garden and along the Tree of Life Trail. View all of the collections at your own pace on this self-guided tour. McBryde Garden is timed entry/exit. Guests will have approximately 2 hours in the garden. Transportation via private bus is required to access the Garden and admission price includes the bus portion. Bus departs on time from the Visitor Center.

Adults $175 • Keiki (Children 2-12) $150 • Member $132

An exclusive and one of a kind dinner tour of Allerton Garden with dinner served at the Allerton Estate House accompanied by live Polynesian dancing, music and fire knife performance! Once in a lifetime experience. Most intimate, limited capacity, open air luau type tour offered on island! Come be awed by the beauty of botanicals and then entranced by live music, dancing and fire.

Adults $105 • Children (6-12) $60* • Children (2-5) $30* • Infant (0-2) FREE • Member $78.75

*keiki meal provided

Treat yourself and someone you love to a special tour of the Allerton Garden at Sunset. Once a favorite destination of the rich and famous, the Allertons hosted notable individuals, such as Jacqueline Kennedy, in their home and garden. The Sunset Tour is the only tour that takes visitors through select Allerton Garden rooms and to the house where the Allertons lived. At the house, visitors will enjoy the Allertons’ personal collection of pictures and memorabilia and finish the tour with a meal featuring your choice of four seasonal entrees catered by a local chef. Meals are served in personal bento boxes to enjoy on the stunning lanai amongst ocean breezes before the sun sets into the Pacific.

Notices: 24-hour cancellation notice required for refunds, groups of 8+ require 5 days advance notice for refund. Closed toe shoes or secured hiking sandals are required. Please arrive 30 minutes prior departure. All tours require a bus ride into the garden. Buses leave on time and do not return for guests arriving after departure. Mahalo!

REQUIRED: Bring your own flashlight, Recommended: hydration, and insect repellent. Recommended age is 12+.

Adults $85 • Member $63.75

Join us for an after-hours tour of exploration and discovery that takes place amongst Allerton and McBryde Gardens. Listen to the birds as they sing their sundown songs before their evening rest. Look for night time pollinators. Smell the sweet fragrance of our night blooming flowers. Feel the gardens come alive in a whole new perspective.

Guided by the moonlight each tour is unique and the path will be dependent upon the season, weather, and Mother Nature in her most secretive time, twilight. Unlike any of our other tours, this experience may take guests through normally off limit areas such as the west side of Allerton, the secret garden tunnels and other off the path enchanted trails.

North Shore Tours

For more information, please call (808) 826-1053.

Limahuli Self-Guided Tour, North Shore, Kauaʻi

Ancient terraces, ancient wisdom, life and relationships with the land, the forest, and the water… the stories unfold as you open your guidebook and make your way through this special place. Envision what the valley might have looked like when the first Hawaiians arrived as you follow the path through the native forest walk. Discover the plants that traveled with them in their canoes and how their culture was inseparable from the plants that sustained them. Contemplate the impact of plant invaders and learn what is being done today to protect fragile ecosystems. Ascend to the Whale Trail and take in the dramatic panorama of the ocean. Feel the spirit of Limahuli.

– To ensure you have a parking space, online reservation is highly  recommended if you are driving to the Garden.  Parking is included with the purchase of tours. We do our best to accommodate walk-ins throughout the day, however, sometimes we are not able to do so due to the limited parking space.

– Visitors to Wainiha/Hāʻena area are encouraged to use  North Shore Shuttle  service via  GoHaena.com . Reservation for our self-guided tour is NOT required for visitors arriving by shuttle, and  we offer a special discount on our tour for shuttle users (see Ticket Price) . Please show your shuttle pass and check in at the Visitor Center as a walk-in during the opening hours before the last check-in time.

Tour Duration: 1.5 hours (recommended minimum) Departure: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your timeslot Tour Type: Self-Guided Tour Ticket Prices: Adults (13 and older) – $30 ($25 if arriving by North Shore Shuttle, must show shuttle pass at check-in) Kamaʻāina w/ valid Hawaiʻi ID – $10 NTBG Members – Free Children (12 and under) – Free with an adult

What to bring – Water bottle (Fill-up station available at the Visitor Center) – Comfortable walking shoes – Face mask if you visit the Gift Shop – Sun protection – Rain protection – Insect Repellant

Limahuli Guided Tour, North Shore, Kauaʻi

Explore this timeless place with a small group as the inextricably interwoven stories of Hawaiian history, culture, natural history, and plants unfold during your visit. As you enjoy legends that abound about this ancient valley, you’ll see the features that inspired them. A guided tour offers you a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of the ecosystem in both ancient and modern times, and how today’s stewardship of the land is modeled after the traditional practices of its earliest inhabitants. Our docents are knowledgeable, enjoy ‘talking story’, and are passionate about sharing this living Hawaiian landscape.

– Online reservation is required for all visitors attending our guided tour. No walk-ins available for the guided tours.  If you are driving to the Garden, please make sure to add a parking space to your reservation.

– Visitors to Wainiha/Hāʻena area are encouraged to use  North Shore Shuttle  service via  GoHaena.com . North Shore Shuttle users are required to make a reservation for our guided tour.  We offer a special discount for shuttle users (please see Ticket Price).  You must show your shuttle pass at check in.

Tour Dates: 9 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays (please arrive at 8:45 am) Tour Duration: 2.5 hours Tour Type: Guided Tour Ticket Prices: Adults (13 and older*) – $60* Kamaʻāina with valid Hawaiʻi ID – $40* NTBG Members – $45* *$5 off ticket price above if arriving by North Shore Shuttle

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Planning to visit an NTBG Garden this season? Capacity is limited. Book your tickets now to ensure availability and have the best experience.

Advanced reservations required. We DO NOT offer self-guided tours or general admission. Book Now!

Princeville Botanical Gardens and Chocolate Tour

Quick Details

• Clock Times: 9:30 a.m.
• Calendar Availability: Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri
• Info Check In Time: Please arrive 30 minutes before tour time
• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• Bookmark Days Closed: Wed, Sat & Sun
• Info Note: ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED . We DO NOT offer self-guided tours or general admission.

Explore our Kauai botanical gardens and sample organic chocolate

Our three-hour walking tour covers every corner of Princeville Botanical Gardens. Your friendly guide will share stories of the gardens’ development and a wealth of fascinating information about the plants. Samples of seasonal fruit samples and homemade honey will keep your energy up as you explore our lush valleys.

This tour also includes a half-hour chocolate tasting during which you’ll learn about the cacao tree and the history of chocolate making while sampling delicious gourmet chocolates from around the world. Due to the length, we recommend parents assess their children’s abilities ages 5 and under to fully enjoy the Kauai chocolate tour.

Reserve your Princeville Botanical Gardens and Chocolate Tour online today.

• Chevron down What To Bring
• Light, long-sleeve shirts or ample covering for possible mosquitoes
• Good walking shoes
• Mosquito repellent
• Water bottle
• Chevron down Important Reminders & Notes
• Participants should be moderately mobile. Our Kauai botanical garden tours proceed at a leisurely pace and the total distance is slightly over a mile. The terrain includes uneven paths, steep steps, and several steep inclines.
• Due to the terrain, we regrettably cannot accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or motorized scooters.
• Please warn us in advance if anyone in your party has any health concerns. Visitors with asthma or other health conditions may find areas of the tour strenuous.
• Tours start on time.
• Our gates open 30 minutes before tour time.
• Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your tour is scheduled to begin.
• Parking is inside the property, just follow the signs. NO parking out on Ahonui Place.
• In wet weather, you can expect to get your shoes a little muddy. Come prepared for a “walk in the woods.”
• We have mosquitos! Please bring repellent if you have concerns.
• Note: Self-guided tours are not available. You must reserve a place on a tour to visit our gardens.
• Chevron down Weather
• Tours are RAIN OR SHINE. In rainy conditions, our gardens are muddy. Please bring good walking shoes, a rain jacket, and umbrella.
• Chevron down Cancellation Policy
• You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start time of your tour.
• Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour will still be charged full price.

• Stroll, Part 2
• Self-Guided
• Waimakai Walk
• Family Tour
• Hoaloha Day
• Playtime Special
• Splash & Play

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

From a bird's eye view the Formal Garden is a resplendent jewel.

. . . in all shapes and sizes!

Unique landscapes

. . . await you.

Planting for the Future

An abundance of beauty.

Na ‘Āina Kai Co-founders Joyce & Ed Doty

Welcome to Na ‘Aina Kai (“Lands by the Sea”) Botanical Gardens, Sculpture Park and Hardwood Plantation.  Reservations are REQUIRED to see the Gardens.

Joyce and Ed Doty, the founders of Na ‘Āina Kai, developed their extraordinary artistic and horticultural vision based upon their strong love for the land and the people of the tropics. Today, the mission of this not-for-profit organization continues to be multifaceted, strengthening the firm foundation upon which the gardens were conceived. Na ‘Āina Kai strives to …

• Ensure its future sustainability through investment in forestry. And share what we learn to encourage others to invest in forestry for Hawaii’s future. • Practice natural resource conservation based on sound scientific principles. • Preserve the land and natural resources for future generations of visitors from the Hawaiian Islands and around the world. • Provide an ever-evolving array of natural wonders and human-crafted artistic creations. • Offer enchanting venues for private, corporate, and cultural events.

Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens 4101 Wailapa Road Kilauea , Hawaii 96754 Phone: (808) 828-0525

Gift Shop Hours

• Monday 8:30am-4pm
• Tuesday 8:30am-4pm
• Wednesday 8:30am-4pm
• Thursday 8:30am-4pm
• Friday 8:30am-3pm

(Closed Saturday, Sunday and all major holidays)

© 2020 Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens All Rights Reserved

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Kauai Garden Tours

Garden activities.

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Garden Tours on Kauai

Kauai is very aptly dubbed The Garden Isle, as most of its land is covered with lush rainforests and unspoiled mountain ranges.  And in living up to its moniker, Kauai is one of the world's best places to take a garden tour.  Prepare to marvel at the most massive living collection of native Hawaiian plants; connect with nature as you learn about ancient agricultural practices and contemporary conservation efforts; or take a breathtaking sunset tour followed by a delicious dinner as the sun disappears into the Pacific. Whether you choose a self-guided tour or prefer the company of a knowledgeable guide, you'll surely love these serene Kauai Garden Tours.

— article continued below —

Recommended Kauai Tours

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Five Must-See Botanical Gardens on Kauai

The Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the most unique and robust plant ecosystems on the planet. It should be no wonder, then, that Kauai is home to many botanical gardens. Each offers unique exhibits, species, and visitor experiences. Differing in size, location, and origin, one thing these botanical gardens have in common is a deep respect for the delicate local ecosystem and a passion for sharing their natural beauty with visitors from all over the world. Here are five of the island’s most impressive and unique botanical gardens:

Na’Aina Kai Botanical Gardens

Na’Aina Kai, or “Lands By the Sea” is a diverse and impressive botanical garden and sculpture park spanning more than 240 sprawling acres. Located in Kilauea, this North Shore destination offers something for the whole family.

Na’Aina Kai, a not-for-profit organization, is comprised of formal and wild gardens. Visitors can admire beautiful tropical plants as they travel through the desert garden, palm garden, and Japanese garden complete with an authentic Japanese tea house. Ka’ula Lagoon features a large waterfall, fountains, and even a small tropical island. Children and adults alike can explore Poinciana Maze, an ornate and winding plant maze. The Children’s Garden is full of climbable, touchable experiences for the keiki, including a mini Navajo village, a gecko maze, a treehouse, and a variety of slides, tunnels, and bridges. Additionally, more than 120 sculptures dot the property, comprising one of the largest collections of bronze sculptures in America.

There are several tour options available, each covering different areas of the property, and ranging in length from 1.5 to 5 hours. While most require walking, there are also some riding tours for those who aren’t able or prefer not to walk.

Limahuli Garden and Preserve

Located in Hanalei, this NTBG botanical garden sits on a site rich with more than 1,500 years of history and is dedicated to preserving the unique flora of the area. The preserve serves as a home to dozens of plants and birds that have become so endangered, they’re no longer found anywhere else on earth. The elevated Whale Trail offers unbeatable panoramic views of the ocean.

The gardens here at the Limahuli Garden and Preserve are focused on species that are unique to northwest Kauai, and the organization has a goal of restoring the ecological and cultural assets of the Limahuli Valley. Visitors will see examples of plants representative of different eras in the area’s history. There are native Hawaiian plant species that have naturally grown here for centuries. There are plants brought over by the earliest Polynesian settlers. And there are culturally important plants introduced in the mid-1800s, at the dawn of the Hawaiian plantation era.

Guests can learn more about the significance of these plants, rare birds, and more by taking a self-guided tour of the property. It’s recommended to allow at least 1.5 hours to complete the tour, though curious visitors can easily spend several hours exploring this lush, serene agricultural marvel.

Princeville Botanical Gardens

Nestled in the lush jungles of Princeville on the Northern tip of Kauai, Princeville Botanical Gardens are gardens with a sweet twist.

Owned and operated by horticultural enthusiasts Bill and Lucinda Robinson, this family-grown garden was established in 2001 as a private endeavor. In 2010, the family opened the garden to the public. Today, visitors can embark on a comprehensive three-hour guided tour on select days each week. The family prioritizes sustainable and organic practices, and evidence of this can be seen throughout the property.

Once inside the gardens, visitors will see a variety of fruit trees, exotic and indigenous flowers, and cacao plants. Tour guides will share interesting information about the different plant varieties as well as the history of the property. Best of all? Guests can taste organic, homegrown chocolate, fresh, seasonal fruits, and honey from the garden’s own beehives.

McBryde & Allerton Gardens

Located in Koloa, on Kauai’s South Shore, these neighboring botanical gardens each offer unique plants and experiences. Both are part of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens (NTBG), a not-for-profit institution with a mission of discovering, saving, and studying tropical plants from around the world, and sharing their knowledge with visitors.

Allerton Garden , steeped in history, is home to many species of rainforest trees, an impressive bamboo grove, several types of tropical fruit trees, and a beautiful flower garden. Attention is paid to the elaborate landscape designs, which are interspersed with sculptures, water features, and art pieces.  Savvy visitors may recognize parts of Allerton Garden from a handful of Hollywood films and television shows. Perhaps most notable are the Moreton Bay fig trees, which are prominently featured in the Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean film franchises.

Next door, McBryde Garden is chock full of palm and flowering trees, orchids, and bold tropical flowers like heliconia and Rubiaceae. In fact, the garden boasts one of the largest collections of native Hawaiian plants in existence. Here, the NTBG teaches about sustainable farming, highlighting some of the sustainable actions taken around the property. Guests can visit the Breadfruit Orchard, Hawaiian Life Canoe Plant Garden, and Tree of Life trail, among other attractions.

Joint tours of both gardens are available through the NTBG. Guests are shuttled to the gardens via private buses leaving from the nearby South Shore Visitors Center in Poipu.

Smith’s Tropical Paradise

Located on Kauai’s East Coast, sometimes referred to as “The Coconut Coast,” Smith’s Tropical Paradise offers a full slate of unique experiences. Contained within Wailua Marina State Park, the garden itself consists of 30 carefully curated acres. The Tropical Orchard is home to more than 20 types of fruit, including star fruit, breadfruit, and soursop. Over a mile of paths and trails wind through bamboo and fruit forests, and a dazzling Flowering Tropicals area. Visitors can explore recreations of Polynesian and Filipino huts on their way to a stunning Japanese garden island. While there are currently no formal garden tours offered, guests are welcome to tour the property independently.

Also available here is a Wailua river cruise to a unique fern grotto. During the two-mile cruise, visitors can enjoy songs and stories about ancient Hawaii and even learn some hula moves. Upon arriving at the grotto, situated deep in the rainforest, explorers can admire the grotto. The grotto, formed millions of years ago and located deep within the rainforest, features ferns that grow upside down from the ceiling, creating a stunning, one-of-a-kind cove.

Additionally, Smith’s Tropical Paradise is home to a renowned Luau. Guests are treated to an authentic luau experience. An expansive menu serves up traditional Hawaiian foods, while a lively performance slate showcases music and dancing traditional to Hawaii and other Pacific Island cultures. Guests are encouraged to join in on the fun by learning some hula dancing skills.

Whether visiting Kauai for the first time, or the 100 th , its botanical gardens are must-see attractions. We hope you enjoy exploring these beautiful and culturally important plant sanctuaries!

Related Articles

KAUAI FARM & GARDEN TOURS

• Information

Kauai is nicknamed “The Garden Island” for good reason. Doing a Kauai Farm or Garden Tour is such a neat way to get in touch with the natural aspects of the island.

See our tour offerings below and let us know which outing is the best fit for you. Choose from Botanical Gardens, Fruit Orchards and Chocolate Farms Tours. Explore the lush beauty of Kauai with Botanical Gardens, Chocolate and Pineapple Farms, Taro Patch Tours, Tropical Forest Hikes and maybe even a Train Ride while you’re at it.

Train Ride, Plantation Farm Tour & Tropical Forest Hike

Limahuli Garden Preserve

Smiths Tropical Paradise

Chocolate Farm & Fruit Orchard Tour

Allerton Valley Garden Tour

North Shore Botanical Garden

Kauai Plantation Railway

Save 10% on Farm Tour ~ Book Now Using Promo Code SPRING10

Lydgate Farms

Kauai chocolate farm tours and tastings.

We Love Chocolate

Our family has been farming in the islands since the days of the Hawaiian kingdom. Recognized three times as producing the best cacao beans in the world by Cocoa of Excellence in Paris, France — we are pioneers of cacao farming on Kauai.

In Hawaiian, the phrase Malama ‘Aina means to care for the land so it can sustain life for future generations. As a fifth-generation family in Hawaii, we are honored to be stewards of both the land and local culture since 1865. We are proud to continue our family’s legacy through the experience of small-scale sustainable cacao farming, exquisitely crafted chocolate, and educational farm tours on our historically-rich property.

Learn More »

Our Chocolate

Kauai chocolate tours and tastings.

Our famous chocolate farm tour — the first of its kind on Kaua’i, widely copied, never surpassed, it is Kauai’s most enjoyable and educational activity. Your three-hour guided tour begins with a stroll through our botanical gardens, where you sample our award-winning palm-blossom honey, experience our vanilla beans, and do an extensive tropical fruit tasting. At Lydgate Farms, formerly Steelgrass Farm, learn all about Theobroma Cacao the chocolate tree and taste its ripe fruit, learn the secrets of turning raw cacao seeds into finished chocolate, and discover the amazing health benefits of chocolate.

Drive up gift shop open for drop ins Monday-Friday 9:30am-2:30pm.

Lydgate Farms cacao beans have been recognized three times to be among the best tasting in the world at the Cacao of Excellence awards in Europe!

(2017, 2021, 2023).

Visit Our Chocolate Shop

Every product we sell is special to us because we sell all of them directly to you — our farm ohana (family). All of our products are naturally grown with lots of Kauai sunshine and rainwater, hand-harvested, and processed in small batches with skill and aloha to ensure the highest quality. Experience our award-winning Lydgate Farms single estate chocolate, vanilla beans, and palm blossom honey, and check out our multi-bar tasting packs and product groupings, perfect gifts for the special people in your lives. Order the taste of Kauai, straight to your door. 

On the Farm

We welcome you to come up to our farm gift shop from 9:30-2:30. Purchase Lydgate Farms chocolate, vanilla, honey, and other delicious products straight from the source, enjoy free samples, and chat with a friendly guide who will answer your questions. Call 808.821.1857 or email [email protected]  for directions.

#1 Rated Tour on Kauaʻi

This tour was so enjoyable! One of the best ever! Mason was our guide and not only was he incredibly witty and personable, but was so knowledgeable of the workings of the farm as well as all of the trees, fruits, and the making of cocoa into craft chocolate. The fruit and chocolate tastings were beyond generous and truly gave us an new appreciation of craft chocolate versus candy.

Henry was our tour guide and was energetic, informative, organized and professional. On the farm tour he taught about about the plants, trees, shrubs, and weeds- their importance and usefulness on the farm. Getting to taste farm grown fruits, their chocolate, and those from around the world built true appreciation for the process, quality, and challenges they face. The chocolate was divine and worth savoring.

Lydgate Farms tour was a fascinating experience! We learned so much from Henry our guide about regenerative farming. We tasted seven kinds of tropical fruits that were amazing and we had 10 kinds of chocolate!!! It’s worth every penny and we absolutely will be back again!

This has to be one of our favorite tours of all the islands and we have been to them all!! We had Jake as a tour guide. He was hell bent on making sure we knew how the Cacau beans were grown and processed versus the companies that do not grow Cacau on the islands. He was fantastic in his knowledge and desire to educate us on the history and production of the great Lydgate Farms products!! We will be back !! We had numerous samples of chocolate !!! Well worth the cost of the tour!!

This may seem like an odd tour to take on Kaua'i; however, you will not be disappointed. We learned not only a great deal about growing cacao in Kaua'i but also about the chocolate industry in general. We were also treated to many tastings from tropical fruits to cacao itself. We highly recommend this tour.

Our third wonderful time spent enjoying the farm, the fruit, and of course the chocolate at Lydgate. Our guide this time was Mel, a knowledgeable and thoroughly delightful young lady who instantly turned the entire group of “guests” into her good friends, sharing history, technical insights into chocolate and organic farming as well as fun and insight stories about herself, the farm, and their products. Informative, great fun, and a really great way to spend a few hours immersed in the joy of Kauai!

Sorry but this should be 10 STARS! Place was fabulous. We learned a lot about chocolate that we never knew before. One of the highlights was our guide Jackson. He was funny (Very funny actually) and informative. (Very informative actually.). I highly recommend this tour. It’s one of the best we’ve been on on the island of Kauai.

This tour exceeded my expectations. Our guide was very informative and made the experience a lot of fun. I learned a lot about how chocolate is produced commercially, as well as the different types, grades and tastes of chocolate. As a result, have become much more selective when it comes to purchasing chocolate. Their dark chocolate macadamia nuts and the rum chocolate bar are divine! Highly recommend this tour.

This was probably the best tour we did while on Kauai! We thought it would be fun but had no idea how much fun and how much we would learn! Mason was a fantastic guide and the fact he is also one of the farmers and lives on the farm made it even better! We got to try all sorts of tropical fruits and then when we got to the chocolate tasting portion, it was truly an experience. And educational. Highly recommend this tour!

Hands down a can’t miss experience. The tour is incredibly informative about not only chocolate but other plants and fruits that grow on the farm as well. You get to try chocolate in every step of their process from start to finish and enjoy many other in-season fruits from the land. All in all such a cool (and incredibly tasty) experience, highly recommend.

Gosh our guide, the farm and the chocolate made the experience.!!!! I didn't catch our guides name, but we went on Monday May 29th from 11am-2pm. He was so passionate and knowledgeable about the farm, chocolate, honey, vanilla, trees, Mr. Lydgate. He made the experience so special. It was a lot of Chocolate, very generous and well done. The stations were fun and educational. I live here on the South Shore and will tell everyone at my restaurant, Cabana Bar & Grill @thecabanakauai! Thank you! A Hui Ho!

I had seen the Lydgate Chocolate Tour on Facebook. The reviews were all positive and the tour sounded good, so I signed up myself and 2 teen daughters. We all had a great time! It was fun and informative and the samples of fruit and chocolate were excellent! Jacob was an excellent tour guide. He possesses a passion for what he does and it shows! I highly recommend. Definitely a unique tour! Lydgate chocolate is to die for! Sooooooo good!

What a wonderful experience. We learned so much about chocolate and the farm. It was great! Our guide was very informative and entertaining. We snacked on very different fruits and learned about how they’re grown. We ate chocolate and chocolate and then chocolate. It was fantastic! When we got home we ordered through they’re website. It shipped fast, still tastes great! Highly recommend.

What a delightful deep dive into mindful experiences of both the experience of tasting chocolate but also the the fully engaged regenerative farming process. Lydgate Farm tour opened my eyes to the experience of chocolate from plant to bean to liquor to the 'food of the Gods' and opened my heart to the island wide regenerative farming to growing food for the island and the world. Good people solid family business.

Fern Grotto Tours on Kauai

During the two mile river journey, you’ll hear songs and stories of ancient Hawaii — like the King’s Highway , sacred Mount Kapu , and the First Hau Tree . In addition, guests enjoy learning the hula during a lesson provided by one of our cousins. Everyone gets into the act during the river cruise!

Smith’s famous Wailua River cruise boats are powered by an ingenious rear-engine system invented by Walter Smith, Sr. The spacious, open-air boats provide excellent views from either side during the trip upstream.

The Wailua River is known as “the only navigable river” in all Hawaii. The river’s fresh water pours down from Mt. Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the wettest spots on the planet. Lands along the river were the sacred capital of ancient Kauai and the birthplace of the island’s ali‘i , or royalty.

At the Fern Grotto landing, you’ll enjoy a short nature walk through the rainforest to the lush Fern Grotto.

The Fern Grotto is a geological wonder of Kauai. Ferns grow upside down from the roof of the grotto, which was formed millions of years ago. Native Hawaiian plants and colorful exotic tropical plants provide a rain-forest atmosphere.

The entire tour takes one hour and 20 minutes round-trip .

Watch Video Highlights of the Wailua River Cruise

Buy Tickets! Directions

Tour Schedule

Current schedule is Monday thru Friday . Additional days may be added to the schedule. Dates on the reservation calendar are the most current available dates.

If you are going to the luau after the boat tour, select the 3:30 P.M. time.

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Friday, May 17, 2024 78° Today's Paper

‘Freckles’ Smith grew family tour business into Kauai legacy

By John Berger

May 9, 2024

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COURTESY KAMIKA SMITH

Walter James Smith Jr.

He was 12 when his father started Smith’s Motor Boat Service, and after his father’s death in 1970, took over as president

Walter James Smith Jr. — known to family, friends and colleagues as “Freckles” — died April 19 at his home in Kapahi, Kauai. He was 89.

Born and raised on the Garden Island, a graduate of Kapaa High School and Kauai Vocational School, Smith was 12 when his father put a borrowed outboard motor on a rowboat and took a group of tourists up the Wailua River to see Fern Grotto. From that first journey up the river came the family business, Smith’s Motor Boat Service Inc., and as “Freckles” Smith grew into the family business he became one of the company’s boat-captain tour guides who shared the history and cultural traditions of the Wailua River Valley with visitors from around the world.

Smith became the company’s president after his father died in 1970. In 1983 he expanded the business with the opening of Smith’s Tropical Paradise, a tropical botanical garden that became the home of the Smith Family Garden Luau.

Smith’s son, Walter Kamika Smith III, remembered him as, “A friendly guy that just wanted to do good for his family.”

“Being around him was like being around the friendliest person because everybody loves him,” Kamika Smith said. “As for working with him, he was very strict (about) making sure everybody’s doing their job. He drove around in a golf cart, and as soon as people saw the golf cart coming around the corner, they were jumping up and making sure that they were in their places at work. With the customers he wanted to make (sure) that everyone had a good time.”

In the aftermath of Hurricane Iniki in 1992, Smith became Kauai’s “ambassador of tourism,” traveling to visitor industry conventions as far away as Egypt to deliver the message that Kauai had survived and would soon be open for business.

Smith’s involvement in the visitor industry also included membership in the American Society of Travel Agents, the Pacific Asia Travel Association and the Japan Association of Travel Agents. He served on the Hawaiian Homes Commission from 1986 to 1993.

Kamika Smith plans to continue the family legacy.

“I was somewhat groomed (for the business), he said. “I was told, ‘You need to make sure that the family business continues,’ so with my other brother who is also working in the business we’re going to continue the family legacy and continue the tours and the luau. Continue to keep our family employed, as well as all of our employees working, and to share the Hawaiian culture and spirit that my grandfather and father did.”

In addition to his son, Kamika, Smith is survived by his wife, Mokihana; his son Kaleo Smith (Stacie); grandchildren, Trey (Shaianne), Tyler (Shannon) and Kira (Jared) and great grandchildren, Trayce, Teiah and Kailer.

A Celebration of Life will be held May 18 at Smith’s Tropical Paradise, 3-5971 Kuhio Highway, Kapaa, Kauai. Visitation with the family will start at 9 a.m. with services to follow.

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Authorities seek public’s help in homicide investigation

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Paul Christie in early 2000’s PC Karina Duffy.

MOLOA’A — Investigators with the Kaua’i Police Department (KPD) are renewing their efforts and continue to request the public’s assistance regarding a homicide that occurred in February 2020.

The request comes as authorities continue to pursue leads that may enhance the investigation of the case.

The investigation began on Feb. 6, 2020, when 57-year-old Paul Christie was found dead in bushes along the side of Kuhio Highway in the Moloa‘a area. An autopsy revealed that Christie’s death was consistent with a homicide.

Christie was last seen alive on Feb. 4, 2020, at the Princeville Shopping Center, where he worked at Piazza Restaurant as a dishwasher. KPD reported back in 2021 that they believed Christie was heading southbound toward Lihu’e before he was killed.

Christie did not have a known permanent address, but lived in Princeville. According to friends, Christie had been traveling the island on foot and they have no reason to believe that Christie had any enemies.

If anyone has any information on the homicide, they are encouraged to contact Detective Brian Silva at 808-246-1908. People wishing to remain anonymous can provide information by calling CrimeStoppers Kaua‘i at 808-246-8300.

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Is a Helicopter Ride in Kauai Worth It? Your Top Questions Answered

A re you thinking about booking a  kauai  helicopter tour but still have a lot of questions keep scrolling to find out whether or not it’s worth booking a helicopter ride in kauai..

Guest post by Dani of Diapers in Paradise

If you have ever considered splurging on a helicopter tour, you are not going to find a better place in the world to do it than  Kauai .

Kauai is known for the lush, verdant jungle that covers most of the island, but it is largely inaccessible to vehicles.

In fact, some of the most iconic landmarks of the Garden Island are only visible from the water… or the air.

There are many helicopter tour companies set up on the island, ready to show you around the side of Kauai that you will not be able to experience any other way.

If you are wondering whether a Kauai helicopter tour is a worthwhile part of your trip, read on to learn more and to hear about my experience with it.

Don’t miss my top  Things to do in Kauai with Kids !

Popular Kauai Tours/Activities

• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling Tour (this one also goes to the forbidden island of Ni’ihau)
• Kauai Helicopter Tour (this is the BEST way to see waterfalls on Kauai)
• ATV Tour to a Private Waterfall (this is a romantic adventure that feels like a secret getaway)
• Mountain Tubing (this is a low-key adventure down an old sugar cane canal)
• Luau Kalamaku (you can do a little train ride and feed farm animals before the luau)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Kauai Resorts/Hotels

• Grand Hyatt Kauai (this Poipu resort has a luxurious pool area, romantic restaurants, and a stunning ocean view)
• Koloa Landing Resort (this is a luxury resort with an amazing pool area and truly spacious rooms)
• Royal Sonesta Kauai (we LOVE the pool here because it’s the largest one in Hawaii)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?

One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Click here for step-by-step Kauai travel planning help

What is it like to take a helicopter tour of Kauai?

Do you remember that iconic moment in the original  Jurassic Park  movie  when they are approaching the island in a helicopter, and the dramatic theme music plays as they fly along the prehistoric-looking coast?

That’s exactly what it feels like during helicopter tours of Kauai.

Because that is exactly what you are doing!

That scene from Jurassic Park was actually filmed on the approach to the Na Pali coast, on Kauai’s North Shore, which is one of the two main reasons to take Kauai helicopter tours.

Na Pali is only viewable  by boat  or by Kauai helicopter rides, and if you want the most epic view of the landscape, a helicopter is the way to go.

The other reason to take a helicopter tour? Waimea Canyon. The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

It is possible to see parts of Waimea Canyon by a combination of driving and hiking, but you will only get a hint of the wonder of this ten-mile-long canyon.

But flying through the canyon, past countless waterfalls, and seeing the jungle sprawled out below you – that is how you truly come to appreciate the sheer size and grandeur of Waimea Canyon.

Taking a tour of Kauai by air is an experience that you will not forget.

What is the process for taking a Kauai helicopter tour?

First, you will want to book it ahead of time for your Kauai vacation.

Yes, there are plenty of tour operators that you can find around the cruise ship terminal in Lihue that are happy to take same-day bookings.

But you will really want to do your research ahead of time and choose a reputable operator.

We went with  Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours  for their vast experience and impeccable safety record and because they are one of the very best helicopter tours for private tours.

When you arrive, you’ll go through a safety briefing, and then you’ll head out to meet your pilot at the airfield.

They will get you all buckled up, go over any last-minute safety reminders, and then you’re off! The vertical take-off is thrilling and nerve-wracking, but within minutes you are out over the jungles of the island.

Most Mauna Loa helicopter tours are in the 45-60 minute range, although you can find longer ones.

While some of the sites that they visit may vary, you can bet that every tour is going to show you Waimea Canyon, the rugged Na Pali Coast, and  Manawaiopuna Falls .

There are even tours available that stop midway through for a picnic and photo op!

What are the types of Kauai helicopter tours available?

When you are looking to book a helicopter tour, you will have a few options. You’ll first need to choose if you want to share the helicopter with other people or book a private tour.

Shared tours usually have 6 passengers. And while this doesn’t seem like much, it is possible that you will have your view impaired by another passenger.

If you are hoping to get good photographs of this for your Kauai vacation, this is particularly worrisome.

Some of the best Kauai helicopter tours are better than others for visibility, so read about the particular helicopter for any flight you are considering booking.

You also might not get seated next to your travel partner. They balance the helicopter for weight, so you will not have any say in where you sit.

The next thing you’ll need to choose is whether or not you want doors on your helicopter.

Opting for a Kauai doors-off helicopter tour gives you the advantage of having a better view and not getting any glare on your photos. It’s windier and sometimes a bit wet!

But Kauai doors off helicopter tours give you an unparalleled view of the scenery and make you feel much closer to the landscape.

If having the doors off seems inherently scarier, remember – it is not the doors that are keeping you safe. It is your seat harness and the skills of your pilot.

It will be imperative that you do not have any loose items on you when you fly. Cameras will need to be strapped to your body.

We opted for the private, doors-off tour.

While this was a splurge for us, we figured it was probably the only time we would ever do a helicopter tour, and we wanted to do it the best way we could.

We have not regretted this decision once! The best Kauai helicopter tours are pricey either way. May as well make the most of it on this stunning Hawaiian island!

Can you bring kids on a Kauai helicopter tour?

Yes, although the age requirements will vary by the tour operator.

Some operators have a minimum age of around 7, while others will allow children of any age, including lap infants (under 2), for free. Lap infants will not have a seat belt, however.

If you are traveling with young children, you will really want to think about if they will be able to handle sitting buckled into an adult-sized harness for an hour, especially considering they might not even be able to see past other passengers.

You also might not get seated next to your child, depending on the weight distribution, although most operators will try to seat families together when possible.

When we visited, we were  traveling with a baby  and a toddler. We ended up using a  local babysitter agency  and turned it into a wonderfully memorable half-day date.

  Are Kauai helicopter tours safe?

This is undoubtedly a question that has crossed your mind if you are considering helicopter rides in Kauai.

And given a few high-profile helicopter crashes in the last few years – including one on Kauai – it is only natural to be nervous.

Of course, there is always risk in something like a helicopter flight. They are statistically more dangerous than a commercial airplane flight, although they are less dangerous than flying in a private plane.

Tour-operated helicopters are significantly safer than private helicopters, as well.

Helicopter flight has become much less risky over the past few decades, but there are occasional incidents.

Of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai has seen the highest number of helicopter crashes, although they are still incredibly rare.

Ensure that you choose a reputable tour operator that adheres to the highest level of safety standards. Expect that if there is adverse weather, your tour will be canceled.

For this reason, it is a good idea to book your helicopter flight early in your trip so that you can reschedule if needed!

We never felt unsafe during our helicopter tour. The flight was smooth, and we were impressed with our pilot’s level of experience.

Is a Kauai helicopter tour worth the money?

Without a doubt, yes!

The breathtaking scenery of the NaPali Coast and Waimea Canyon are best viewed from the air, especially a bird’s eye view!

There is no better way to experience the natural wonder of the Garden Isle than by flying above the jungle in a Kauai island helicopter.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience that you will treasure, along with incredible photos, especially if you choose a doors-off tour.

If you are coming to Kauai, I highly recommend taking a few hours out to see the beauty that this island has to offer!

Top Helicopter Tours on Kauai

Kauai eco adventure helicopter tour.

This is a 50-minute Kauai helicopter ride in a new Eurocopter Eco-Star, which is much quieter than other helicopters on Kauai.  Check out the latest prices and more details.

Private Kauai Helicopter Tour with No Middle Seats

This Kauai helicopter tour is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the major perk is that only your party participates, AND everyone gets a good window seat.  Check out the latest prices and more details.

Hughes 500 Helicopter Tour

For another fun ride on one of the island helicopters, try this Hughes 500 helicopter tour! No middle seats, and up to four guests can enjoy this ride. You will pretty much see the entire island with this experienced pilot. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Best Kauai Helicopter Tours FAQs

Absolutely! You will get to see stunning views of the island that you would not see otherwise. It is the perfect way to explore Kauai’s finest places and is an excursion you don’t want to miss out on.

The flight tie is different for each tour. Some are 30 minutes long, while others go over an hour. It all depends on who you book with.

Manawaiopuna Falls, the NaPali coast with its sea cliffs, where they filmed Jurassic Park, Waimea Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, Olokele Canyon, and so much more of Kauai’s natural beauty!

Dani runs things over at  Diapers in Paradise , a family travel blog focused entirely on travel with babies and toddlers. With destination guides that center around the needs of parents of little ones, and a library of helpful tips and tricks for minimalism-inspired travel with babies, her goal is to help you prepare to have the best trip ever,  because of  (not  in spite of ) bringing the baby.

Looking for more Kauai Travel Resources? Find out my top  Kauai Vacation Planning Tips ,  Kauai Packing List ,  Best Kauai Waterfalls ,  Top Kauai Luaus ,  Kauai Food Tour , and the best  Kauai Food Trucks !

The post Is a Helicopter Ride in Kauai Worth It? Your Top Questions Answered appeared first on Hawaii Travel with Kids .

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I’ve done a lot of research about where to stay on the north shore and it seems that HBR is the go to answer. I’ve then done more research on the units available between several sites and it seems like for my dates, unit 6203 is the one I’ve narrowed down to. Has anyone stayed in this unit recently? I’ve read it’s right above the BBQ area and noise can be an issue. That would be disappointing if trying to relax on the lanai and it’s just a lot of noise from people below. But also doesn’t seem like many other available units have as high of reviews as this unit does. 4222 is available for 3 of the 4 nights I’m going, but they are asking way too much than I think is reasonable (3 nights there cost the same as 4 in 6203!).

21 replies to this topic

Yes you could, but at that point you’re nearly double the nightly cost. Starts getting similar in price to 1Hotel…

I’d be very surprised if noise from the pool and BBQ were an issue. It’s usually quiet in that area. On our first visit to HBR we didn’t realize there was a pool there!

I've stayed several times in the unit directly above the unit you are asking about, in #6303. We absolutely love it and will be returning for our 5th stay in the unit this summer. We have never heard anyone in the lockout single next door. The 6000 building has fabulous views, easy access to both pools and the bbq area and is an easy walk from the parking lot and Happy Talk Lounge. Noise from the lounge and large pool is minimal.

We've sat on the patio and didn't notice any noise except the roosters occasionally. That smaller pool below the unit is not popular and the bbq area is not very busy so we've never had any problems whatsoever. It's one of the best unit locations in the complex. Please feel free to PM me with questions! :-)

Thank you so much for the response! Good to know the noise is minimal on the balcony! I'm sure I'll have some questions about the place so thanks for the offer, I'll be sure to take you up on that!

I think HBR is overpriced and touristy. Saw a suggestion for Sea Lodge, but I'd look at those units very carefully before booking. Trip Advisor has many negative reviews for that complex: beat up and run down, ignored by absentee owners. Be careful, good luck.

Of course HBR is touristy. The rooms are full of tourists.

Although they have some full time residents. One a father of a top athlete on the WSL, world surf league. My husband and he had great time talking about surfing, at the now long gone swim up bar, while is son was in a competition. Australia I think. I miss that swim up bar.

I’ll most likely stay there on our next trip, we’re comfortable there and know to what expect. The fees are ridiculous for sure. But it’s a beautiful property and it works for you,enjoy.

I’ve heard to look for an upstairs unit at Pali Ke Kua . There can be noise if there is condo above.

You’ll find the perfect spot.

We are at HBR right now and the hot tub reopened yesterday.

You make some great points. I have friends that have stayed at HCR. They felt isolated and disconnected and kinda stuck there. Did HCR used to be Charo’s?

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