FAQS
Whether coming from north or south, taking the Onomea Bay Scenic Route will bring you directly to HTBG. Coming from Hilo: HTBG is located about 7 miles north of Hilo. Travel north on Route 19. Just after mile marker 7, turn right at large blue highway sign on the right saying “”Scenic Route.”” About 2 miles on the left is our Visitor Center and parking. Coming from Waimea: Travel south on Route 19 along the Hamakua Coast until you pass the 8 mile marker. Look for the blinking yellow light with sign on the right saying “”Old Mamalahoa Hwy.”” Make the next left onto the Scenic Route. About 1.5 miles on the right is our Visitor Center.
All Guests must be able to safely navigate the boardwalk on their own. Mobility assistance devices such as wheelchairs, scooters, or crutches are not permitted.
The Boardwalk entry to the Garden is quite steep, with an elevation change of about 100′ over 500′ in length. Please know your physical limitations before you enter.
Strollers must be unoccupied when used on the Boardwalk. Once past this portion, our paths are paved and accessible.
The trail is approximately 1.25 miles long with a combination of both uphill and downhill sections. Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes.
Most guests take between 1-1.5 hours in the garden but your ticket allows you access for the entire day. We encourage you to take your time.
Only trained service animals in compliance with ADA rules and Hawaii State law are allowed in the Garden.
We no longer sell flowers but you can now order directly through Hawaiian Greenhouse www.hawaiiangreenhouse.com 808-965-8351
The Garden and Visitors Center is 20 acres however the entire conservation area of the Bioreserve is now 100 acres (and growing).
HTBG was founded by Dan & Pauline Lutkenhouse. You can learn more about them here.
Weather on the East side of Hawaii Island can change quickly. Check the weather using zip code 96781 for the most accurate results.
While the majority of plants are collected from off-island, we do have many native plants in the Garden. All native plants in the Garden are labeled with red signs.
With over 2500 plant species, there’s always something beautiful in-bloom at HTBG. While many flowers blossom in Spring and Summer, Winter brings beautiful rain which makes for exciting waterfalls and stream views.
We have roughly 125,000 visitors annually.
Bioreserve: A protected area reserved for the conservation of endangered species of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) that preserves wildlife, landforms, and waterways while providing appropriate public use and enjoyment of a natural environment. You can learn more via our blog post, “What is a Bioreserve?”
Yes, you can ask at our Visitor Center or call Guest Services at 808-964-5233 to ask about lost items.
We are not affiliated with any other Gardens or Parks. HTBG is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.