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Lyon Arboretum

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The Harold L. Lyon Arboretum is a botanical garden and rainforest retreat located in Mānoa Valley, Honolulu. This hidden gem features lush tropical gardens, scenic walking trails, and a beautiful waterfall, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, plant enthusiasts, and easy hikers. Unlike other waterfall hikes on Oahu, this one is well-maintained and less crowded than nearby Mānoa Falls. Reservation required: Visitors must book online in advance (entry is free, but donations are suggested). No swimming at Aihualama Falls: This is a protected watershed area. The arboretum spans 200 acres, featuring well-maintained trails winding through over 5,000 plant species. You’ll see towering bamboo groves, tropical flowers, rare native Hawaiian plants, and massive banyan trees. Many trails have informational signs about Hawaiian flora, making this a great educational experience.  A 0.8-mile (1.6 miles RT) jungle path leads to Aihualama Falls, a peaceful rainforest waterfall tucked inside the arboretum. Less crowded than Mānoa Falls but requires more navigation. Water flow varies, stronger after rain, but trail gets muddy. Swimming is not allowed to protect the watershed. Keep an eye out for colorful Hawaiian birds, wild ginger, and massive tree ferns. The misty rainforest atmosphere makes it one of the most photogenic spots on Oahu. Great for families and plant lovers—many easy, walkable trails.

Tips for your Visit


  • Best Time: Morning or Midday.

  • Morning: Fewer crowds, cooler temps.

  • Midday: Best lighting for photos, but warmer.

  • Late Afternoon: Quiet and serene, but be mindful of closing time. 

  • Avoid after heavy rain: The trails get very muddy, and the falls may overflow.  Cost: FREE (Donations Suggested: $10/person) 

  • Reservation Required: Book your visit online at Lyon Arboretum's website before arriving. Walk-ins are not allowed due to capacity limits.

  • Parking: Free parking at the arboretum entrance. Additional parking at Mānoa Falls Trailhead if main lot is full. 

  • Location: 3860 Mānoa Road, Honolulu, HI Follow Mānoa Road past the Mānoa Falls Trailhead, Lyon Arboretum is at the very end. 

  • Wear sturdy shoes: Some trails are muddy and uneven. 

  • Bring bug spray: Mosquitos are common in the rainforest.

  • Carry water: No refill stations along the trails. 

  • Respect plant life: Do not pick flowers or disturb native species. 

  • Check weather before going: Avoid after heavy rain due to slippery trails.

Thoughts from my Visit


Lyon Arboretum has over seven miles of hiking trails and boasts more than 6,000 taxa of tropical and sub-tropical plants on nearly 200 acres. One of the main trails leads to Aihualama Falls. That hike is approximately 1.2 miles out & back with a 357 foot elevation. Not a hard hike but it was muddy in a lot of places. There were so many trails that i just wondered around trying most of them.

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