Koko Crater Botanical Garden

Honolulu, Hawaii, United States

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Koko Crater Botanical Garden in Honolulu, Hawaii, was established in 1958 within the inner slopes and basin of the 200-acre extinct volcanic crater on Oahu’s eastern side.

The 60-acre garden specializes in the cultivation of rare and endangered dryland plants adapted to desert-like conditions, employing xeriscape principles to transform the arid landscape. It features over 500 trees and about 200 species including collections from Africa, the Americas, Hawaii, and the Pacific, showcasing plants such as adeniums, aloes, cacti, euphorbias, palms, and native wiliwili trees.

A two-mile loop trail guides visitors through diverse flora including vibrant plumeria, bougainvillea, hibiscus, and unique specimens like the dragon’s blood tree. The garden offers an educational, peaceful oasis in the crater setting, emphasizing conservation of rare plants suited to dry climates while providing scenic views in a striking volcanic environment.