Waimea Valley, known as the “Valley of the Priests” for over 700 years is now the home of a “World Class Botanical Gardens.”
Over 5000 tropical and subtropical plants live here in this park which is over 1800 acres. A non-profit organization takes care of the gardens. There is an entrance fee of $16 for adults and less for children and military personnel.
What makes these gardens exciting is the 45 foot Waihi waterfall at the end of the ¾ miles trail. The day we visited there were plenty of people enjoying swimming in the waterfall pool. There are life-guards posted and they do ask you to wear a vest. There is a sign warning you about “Leptospirosis,” that exists in all of Hawaiian fresh waters. The sign did not stop many of these people of enjoying these waters.
The path is fully paved and there are plenty of shady trees. The Monkey Pod at the beginning is exceptional. By the waterfall and midway are bathrooms and water. You may even elect to take the tram up to the falls for a few dollars. There was always someone taking the tram.
At the beginning is a delightful complex with a café, restaurant and store. A pretty “peacock” hangs around “The Proud Peacock Restaurant.”
Waimea is easy to get to from Honolulu. Follow the main road to North Shore and past the city village of Haleiwa. Continue on route 83 until you come to Waimea Beach area and Waimea Valley is to the right.
It is well worth a visit and whole lot cheaper than the $40 price tag of the Botanical Gardens on Kauai.
