Discover Kauai’s botanical gems on a guided tour through Allerton and McBryde Gardens. South Shore Gardens offers a unique inside look at these iconic tropical landscapes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires ability to walk on garden paths for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The National Tropical Botanical Gardens were established to preserve tropical plant species and educate visitors about Hawaii’s unique ecosystems.
Conservation
Both gardens actively propagate endangered plants and promote environmental stewardship within Hawaii’s delicate habitats.
South Shore Gardens - National Tropical Botanical Gardens
Discover Kauai’s botanical gems on a guided tour through Allerton and McBryde Gardens. South Shore Gardens offers a unique inside look at these iconic tropical landscapes.
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.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour involves walking on uneven garden paths for about 2.5 hours.
Bring sun protection
Hawaii’s sun is strong—pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Stay hydrated
Carry a water bottle to stay refreshed during the tour.
Photography allowed
Capture unique botanical features, but respect garden rules on plant interaction.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides stability on uneven garden paths.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Protects skin and eyes from intense tropical sun.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Ensures hydration throughout the tour.
Light rain jacket
Useful for occasional tropical showers.
spring|fall|winter