Kahanu Botanical Gardens

Situated among one of the largest native hala forests in the Islands, the Kahanu Botanical Gardens are located along the world famous Hana coast near the Hana Highway. Kahanu Botanical Gardens are home to Pi’ilanihale, believed to be the largest heiau in Polynesia. The focus of this botanical garden is plants of the Pacific Islands. To the west of Kahanu Botanical Gardens is the scenic Nahiku Road, be sure to stop at both while on the Road to Hana!

History

Clearing land and planting the first collections of plants began in 1972, and in 1974 work to restore Pi’ilanihale began with the help of Kahanu Botanical Garden staff and volunteers. The surrounding area that the garden is located on is rich in Hawaiian history and was the center of royal power until 1794.

• Location: Hana, Maui
• Amenities: Restrooms, tours available on first-come-first-serve basis, guided tours available in advance with credit card.
• Insider Tip: In the “canoe” gardens you’ll find important ethnobotanical plants that were brought to Hawaii by Polynesians some 1,800 years ago.
• Fun Fact: The Pi’ilanihale is a heiau, or ancient place of worship, that is known to be the biggest one of its kind in all of Polynesia.
• What To Expect: Ethnobotanical collections of plants. Many of the plants here are spiritually important as well as providing nutrients for Polynesians.