Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden - Honolulu, Hawaii - Natural Urban Waterfall and Picnic Area

Portions of this 7.5-acre garden once belonged to the last reigning monarch of Hawaii, Queen Lili'uokalani (September 2, 1838 - November 11, 1917), from whom the Botanical Garden gets its name. The quiet and secluded grounds were said to be her favorite picnic spot, and in her will she bequeathed the land to the City and County of Honolulu to be used for the public's enjoyment.

The garden area itself, which is now devoted to local Hawaiian plants, is still under development. New species are being introduced on a regular basis by the Honolulu Botanical Gardens of the State Parks & Recreation Department, which manages the property as one of five such conservation areas on Oahu, the others being Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Wahiawa Botanical Garden, and nearby Foster Botanical Garden, just to the south.

Among mature trees already in place are a number of interesting native species. They include two representatives of Sapindaceae, the soapberry family: the Manele (Sapindus saponaria) and the A'Ali'i (Dodonea viscose). The latter is a hardy tree that typically grows by the coast or in lowlands. Its lightweight, papery seed-pods probably drifted to the Hawaiian Islands centuries ago, and because they are so colorful - tan, pink, yellow, or red-purple - they are often woven into leis.

Also firmly rooted at Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden is the Naio (Myoporum sandwicense) of the Myoporaceae or false sandalwood family. And the Hala (Pandanus tectorius) of the Pandanaceae or screwpine family is growing well here, too.

Running through the Botanical Gardens and its grassy stretches is Nuuanu Stream, a lovely little waterway from which nearby Nuuanu Avenue takes its name. There are picnic areas and walking paths along the stream, providing an unexpected oasis right in the middle of the city. It makes a nice, shady place for local residents to take an afternoon break amid a variety of local flora.

The man attraction here is Waikahalulu Waterfall, which is the most photographed natural urban cascade in Hawaii, and perhaps in the entire United States. Although it drops only 20 feet, the wide flowing water and its picturesque composition make it a perfect backdrop for professional travel and fashion photographers. That, plus its convenient location amid the busy streets of Honolulu, draws plenty of camera-toting tourists as well. But visitors should be forewarned that the water basin below the Waikahalulu Falls is polluted with bacteria and deemed unsafe for bathing. Swimming is therefore not allowed.

Like many photogenic locations in Hawaii, the Honolulu Botanical Gardens has become a popular venue for weddings. Couples who have been married here describe it as a "beautiful, secret little world,'' and wedding planners are more than happy to help arrange access for ceremonies. Since it is a public facility, special permits are required.

For simply visiting, the Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden is open daily without charge from 9am to 4pm, except Christmas and New Year's Day. It is located along the #4 bus route on North Kuakini at the end of Waikahalulu Lane off School Street. Easily accessible by car, too, plenty of free parking is available. Please note, however, that no restrooms or other facilities are provided, and the gates are locked promptly at closing.