Self-Guided Tour at McBryde Garden by South Shore Gardens
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal elevation changes but expect several miles of walking.
Overview
Step into 50 acres of vibrant Hawaiian flora and cultural heritage at McBryde Garden. This self-guided tour by South Shore Gardens offers a rare chance to discover native plants and tropical species at your own pace.
McBryde Garden Self Guided
Adults $30 | Children $15 | 2.5 Hours
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the beauty of McBryde Garden on a self-guided tour through 50 acres of unique plant collections, featuring Hawaiian natives and ethnobotanical species. Immerse yourself in history at the Hawaiian Life Canoe Plant Garden and stroll along the Biodiversity Trail, all at your own pace.
McBryde Garden Self Guided Visit
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Ticket Prices:
- Adults - $30
- Children (2-12) - $15
- Kamaaina - $24
Tour Type: Self-Guided Tour Departure: Departs select days Tuesday- Saturday from the South Shore Visitors Center Departs Visitors Center on time like an airplane Tour Duration: 2.5 hours (guests are in the garden 2 hours - not less, not more)
Explore, Engage, and Conserve
McBryde Garden visitors can explore 50 acres of diverse plant collections including Hawaiian native and ethnobotanical species, palms, rubiaceae (coffee family), zingiberales (heliconia family), and erythrina (coral trees). See exotic spices from allspice to vanilla on the Spice of Life Trail, and take a journey back in time in the Hawaiian Life Canoe Plant Garden and along the Biodiversity Trail.
View all of the collections at your own pace on this self-guided tour and catch the return shuttle to the South Shore Visitors Center at the top of every hour.
Book Now or Call for more information.
Adventure Tips
Bring water and sun protection
Even shaded areas can get warm, so pack sunscreen and a hat to stay comfortable throughout your walk.
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes
Trails vary from paved paths to more natural surfaces; good footwear keeps you steady and prevents slips.
Use trail maps provided
While the tour is self-guided, taking a map will help you locate all the themed trails without missing key spots.
Catch the hourly return shuttle
Plan your pace to connect with the shuttle service at the top of each hour back to the South Shore Visitors Center.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Native Hawaiian honeycreepers
- Colorful tropical butterflies
History
McBryde Garden is part of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens network, founded to conserve tropical plants and promote ethnobotanical knowledge vital to Hawaiian culture.
Conservation
The garden participates in efforts to protect endangered native species and educates visitors about sustainable interactions with fragile island ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Lihue
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports footing through mixed terrain on garden paths.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is key especially during warm, humid periods.
summer specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects skin from UV exposure on open trails.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Useful during unexpected tropical showers.
fall|winter|spring specific