Oahu’s north shore is famous for its incredible beaches, the charming town of Haleiwa, and a plethora of mouthwatering food trucks; but once you step back from the ocean, you will find some absolutely incredible landscapes to explore, including the lush and beautiful Waimea Valley.
An area of historic cultural significance, the Waimea Arboretum and Botanical Garden is home to 35 distinct plant collections, with one of the most impressive collections of Polynesian plants in existence.
Aussie Assault/Flickr
The gardens are absolutely breathtaking and perfect for a day of exploration for the entire family - from young stroller-bound children to elderly adults.
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Waimea Valley is one of the last partially intact ahupuaa on Oahu, and encompasses approximately 1,875 acres. Dubbed “The Valley of the Priests” Waimea Valley has been a place of deep cultural and historical significance for more than 700 years.
Justin De La Ornellas/Flickr
Andy Gippetti/Flickr
Much of the valley floor was used for the cultivation of taro, sweet potatoes and bananas. Descendants of the high priests lived and cared for the valley’s land until 1886, and you will find countless pieces of history scattered throughout the valley, including religious sites and shrines, house sites, and fishponds.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
The main trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, and is entirely paved, with plenty of unpaved offshoots to check out along the way. You can even pay $1 for a tram ride to true highlight of the valley: the lovely 45-foot Waimea Falls, an idyllic spot for a family swim.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Visitors will have to pay an entrance fee for the botanical garden, but once inside, the stroll to the waterfall is quick, and features a changing room, life jackets available for free use, and lifeguards on duty.
Andy Gippetti/Flickr
John McKenzie/Flickr
Can you even imagine a more perfect family day than strolling through a lovely botanical garden before reaching a charming waterfall pool ideal for a quick swim? Head across the street to Waimea Bay afterwards and you have a quintessential Hawaiian day.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
The famous Waimea Bay is a popular spot for boogie boarding and cliff jumping in the summer, as well as a haven for surfers of all skill levels during the winter months. The iconic bay even plays host to the famous Quicksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, perhaps the most prestigious event in surfing, that is only held when ocean conditions are perfect.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Entrance fees range from $6 to $16, and you can learn more about the breathtaking botanical garden here. For more stunning waterfall adventures in Hawaii, be sure to check out these 9 gorgeous waterfalls hiding in plain sight, as well as these 12 adventurous waterfall hikes.
Aussie Assault/Flickr
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Justin De La Ornellas/Flickr
Andy Gippetti/Flickr
John McKenzie/Flickr
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