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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal elevation changes but expect several miles of walking.
Wildlife
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.
South Shore Gardens - National Tropical Botanical Gardens
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.
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.
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.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports footing through mixed terrain on garden paths.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is key especially during warm, humid periods.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects skin from UV exposure on open trails.
summer
Light rain jacket
Useful during unexpected tropical showers.
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