Liliʻuokalani Gardens

What to expect

The gardens spread across the Waiākea Peninsula at the edge of Hilo Bay: open lawns, big shade trees, and waterfront paths looping around Waihonu Pond and smaller koi ponds. Most people wander for about an hour, crossing the bridges and stopping at the stone lanterns, then take the short footbridge out to Mokuola (Coconut Island) for views back toward the bayfront and downtown. The landmark vermilion bridge pavilion is new. County carpenters rebuilt it from termite-resistant Alaskan yellow cedar, and it was dedicated in September 2025. Unlike Hilo’s waterfall stops, this is flat, easy walking right beside the Banyan Drive hotels.

Know before you go

Cost and hours

Admission is free and the park never closes, so you can come at first light or late in the day for softer light and fewer people.

Facilities

Hawaiʻi County’s facility directory lists restrooms, a pavilion, a walking path, and ADA accessibility at 49 Banyan Drive.

Best time

Early morning is when local joggers use the paths, and calm morning water gives the clearest reflections in the ponds.

Teahouse

The Shoroan teahouse was rebuilt in 1997 after arson destroyed the original in 1994. The Urasenke Hilo Association uses it for tea ceremony classes in English and Japanese (808-981-2777).

Tree work

The park has about 240 trees, and the county has been removing invasive African tulip and gunpowder trees. During work periods, expect barricaded safety zones and occasional closures of Lihiwai Street.

Make a loop

Walk the footbridge to Mokuola, a place once home to a healing temple, then continue along Banyan Drive past the hotels.