Lyon Arboretum

"Amazing is all I can say. Gentle walk through paradise! Have to make a reservation ahead of time, reservations opens maybe on Saturday or Sunday for the week, the website doesn't say. By Sunday we got the last spot for thecweek on a Thursday. Only open Monday-Friday. We wore runners, but my one of my kids wore flip flops, which wasn't a good choice as it is a gravel road. Staff was kind. We didn't go far, but there are benches to sit here and there which I made use of. Just beautiful scenery and tropical birds singing everywhere."

"Amazing and well maintained botanical garden! This is a kid and toddler friendly spot however it is NOT stroller friendly. I ditched my stroller multiple times while weaving in and out of the trails. Gets very muddy with rain, is very muggy/humid throughout, and bug spray is a must (I skipped and I definitely regret it!) The main path leads to a lovely waterfall with many rocks and roots near end of ~1 mile trail. Overlooking the Valley was a delight. My only complaint is the markers for trails are not well done and many trails have no markers at all! While each trail is short, we got lost multiple times, walked in many circles, and came across others who did the same. We would definitely come back but with no stroller (baby backpack would probably work great), lots of bug spray, and good hiking boots or shoes. One other complaint is the ticketing system - please improve!!"

"This was great fun and enjoyed the exotic smells and the flowers were great. Easy hike and learned a lot about the rainforest. Oh ya bring some light weight rain greer"

"I had the pleasure of attending a Haku lei making class at the Lyon Arboretum today, and it was an absolutely wonderful experience. The volunteer staff were not only knowledgeable about their craft, but also incredibly passionate, which made the learning process both enjoyable and enlightening. The selection of flowers and foliage available for our leis was outstanding, providing a beautiful array of colors and textures to work with. The atmosphere was fun and relaxed, and the company of the delightful ladies made the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend visiting the Lyon Arboretum and taking one of their classes. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Hawaiian culture and nature."

"The trails around Great Lawn and up to the Valley Overlook are close to the visitor center and present many labeled plants, interesting planted beds and trials to wander. If you have kids or a mobility impaired elder this is the area for you. The longer gravel/dirt/grass road up to the falls is a mild climb and fades into a short trail to the falls. Doable in an hour each way with kids/elders but more uniform so less interesting for young minds. Environs and side trails passed up to the falls are ungroomed. Falls are intermittent based on recent rain. My favorite for an easy immersive forest walk on Oahu. Need on line reservation but free."