Nani Mau Gardens Overview The Nani Mau Gardens in Hawaii, was founded by Makato Nitahara in 1972. The 20-acre area had previously been used to grow papayas and was beautifully transformed into a tropical garden. Then Ms. Helen Koo purchased the gardens in May 2012. Her vision for the garden was creating a place of peace and harmony for all to enjoy. Located 3 miles south of Hilo on the Big Island, the humid, tropical continuously wet climate zone that the gardens are located in stretches north from the Puna district, through Hilo and up the Hamakua Coast from sea level to as high as the 3,000-foot elevation. Rainfall levels range from 127 inches to 300 inches at higher elevations annually; therefore, the gardens are filled with a great variety of tropical plants, beautiful flowers, and a variety of trees. With all this splendor, it’s no wonder the word “Nani Mau” means “forever beautiful.” As a scenic spot for tourists, family celebrations, community events and even weddings, the gardens have been described as a “hidden gem” and “beautiful, serene and educational”. While visiting the gardens, guests can enjoy a delicious Island buffet lunch or order ‘ala carte’ at the Garden Court Restaurant while souvenirs can be purchased at the gift shop. Nani Mau’s self-guided or narrated guide tour is an experience providing visitors with information about Hawaiian history and culture associated with the various tropical flowers and plants around this beautiful Big Island Botanical Garden. Climate ZoneTropical Continuously Wet (Af)Places with Comparable Climates: Puyo, Ecuador; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Suva, Fiji Nani Mau Gardens Hours, Fees and Contact Info HoursOpen Daily 10am – 3pm FeesGeneral Admission $10.00Children $5.00, Kamaaiana $7.99, Senior Citizen $5.00Parking is Free Contact Information(808) 959-3500Website Nani Mau Gardens Map and Address 421 Makalika StreetHilo, HI 96720
Nani Mau Gardens
