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Explore Allerton and McBryde Gardens: National Tropical Botanical Garden on Kauai

Discover two exceptional gardens in the lush Lawa‘i Valley, managed by the renowned National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG). Allerton Garden, nestled against a stunning beach, was once owned by Hawaii’s Queen Emma. From 1938, Chicago philanthropist Robert Allerton transformed it with extensive plantings and elegant ‘garden rooms’ featuring pools, sculptures, and gazebos.

Inland, the magnificent McBryde Garden boasts diverse palms, flowering and spice trees, orchids, rare endemic species, a scenic stream, and waterfall. Both are accessible only by shuttle from the shared visitor center on Lawa‘i Road, west of Po‘ipu—ideal for budget travelers seeking value.

Opt for a self-guided McBryde visit to freely explore its vast grounds. Five interpretive trails highlight themes like plants introduced by Kaua‘i’s original Polynesian settlers, with informative panels. Shuttles depart hourly from the center on the half-hour and pick up from McBryde on the hour.

Guided tours offer deeper insights: 2½-hour Allerton Garden tour (adult/child 6-12 $60/30); 3-hour Sunset tour ($100/50), including Allerton’s home; 2½-hour Wailele tour to McBryde’s waterfall ($45/22.50); and 2½-hour ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour ($60/30) across both gardens, emphasizing conservation. Check online schedules and book ahead.

Chartered by the US Congress, NTBG is a leading non-profit dedicated to tropical plant research, conservation, and education. Beyond Allerton and McBryde, it stewards Limahuli Garden (Kaua‘i North Shore), Kahanu Garden (Maui), Awini and Ka‘upulehu preserves (Big Island), and Kampong Garden (Florida).


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