Step into the historic Allerton Garden at sunset with South Shore Gardens. This guided tour blends tropical botanical wonders with cultural treasures and ends with drinks as the Pacific sun fades.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with gentle walking on mostly flat garden trails and indoor home access.
Wildlife
History
The Allerton Garden was designed and developed by Robert and Margaret Allerton in the 1930s and ’40s, blending horticulture with fine arts and architecture.
Conservation
South Shore Gardens emphasizes sustainable garden practices and native plant preservation, minimizing environmental impact while maintaining this living museum.
South Shore Gardens - National Tropical Botanical Gardens
Step into the historic Allerton Garden at sunset with South Shore Gardens. This guided tour blends tropical botanical wonders with cultural treasures and ends with drinks as the Pacific sun fades.
South Shore Gardens - National Tropical Botanical Gardens in Koloa, Hawaii protects and showcases two world-class landscapes: Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden. The site offers guided tours and self-guided experiences that highlight horticulture, cultural history, and conservation.
Allerton Garden Guided Tour leads visitors through an acclaimed landscape where exotic plants, sculptures, and water features combine with horticultural design. The garden’s iconic Moreton Bay fig trees are visible in film history, including scenes from Jurassic Park. Allerton Garden at Sunset is a special guided experience that includes a visit to the historic Allerton home, displays of the Allertons’ personal memorabilia, and a refreshment service on a lanai as daylight fades over the Pacific.
McBryde Garden Self Guided invites independent exploration across approximately 50 acres of curated plant collections. The self-guided route features Hawaiian native and ethnobotanical species, the Hawaiian Life Canoe Plant Garden, and the Biodiversity Trail, offering a deep look at plant conservation and island ecosystems.
The Best of Both Worlds (Behind the Scenes Tour) operates Tuesday through Saturday and combines highlights from Allerton and McBryde for a guided overview of both properties. As part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden network, South Shore Gardens supports research, conservation, and public education while delivering accessible visitor experiences. Clear signage, trained guides on scheduled tours, and preserved historic features make the gardens a reliable destination for visitors seeking botanical diversity and cultural context. Visitor services include parking, accessible pathways, and interpretive signage to support enjoyable and informed garden visits for all ages.
Location
Koloa, Hawaii
South Kauai garden destination
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Guided and self-guided tours
McBryde Size
50 acres
Extensive curated plant collections
Institution
National Tropical Botanical Garden
Conservation and research network
Secure guided or self-guided experiences — book the Allerton Guided Tour, McBryde Self-Guided walk, Best of Both Worlds, or an Allerton Garden at Sunset.
Book Early for Limited Slots
Tours operate only on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday with a minimum group size, so reserve ahead to secure your spot.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
The guided walk covers garden paths and some uneven terrain—choose sturdy, comfortable shoes.
Arrive 10 Minutes Early
Check in early at 4425 Lawa‘i Road to ensure a smooth start for your sunset tour between 3:30 and 4:30 PM.
Bring a Light Jacket
Evenings can cool quickly near the ocean, so pack a light layer to stay comfortable on the lanai.
Comfortable walking shoes
To navigate garden paths comfortably during the tour.
Light jacket or sweater
To stay warm during cool coastal evenings on the lanai.
fall
Camera or smartphone
Capture vibrant gardens and twilight ocean panoramas.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated in warmer weather while touring the grounds.
summer