Overall a very nice place to visit. A bit wild and unexpected place with some amazing things to see.

Beautiful garden inside of a crater you can grab a map near the entrance that tells you about it.There are plants from all over with lots to learn. Theres a few different trails but its all a loop and youll end up back by the gates. No bathrooms. Lots of picnic tablets throughout.Great for hiking with toddlers/kids. Safe,fairly easy with a lot to explore. Used a cane fine here.

Great little hike thats about 2 miles long. The trails are somewhat easy to navigate, dont expect any super great views, but this place is great for fans of different types of vegetation.

Super fun and easy walk. Took us only an hour to walk the loop, admire the plants, etc.

This was such an adventure! Wasnt sure if it would be worth it once we started the trek up, but it was definitely worth it! I would recommend this to anyone who is physically able to do it. Its exhausting, but youll always be thankful you did it. Advise, go before 8am, bring water, maybe some light snacks for the top, a camera, and someone with you. The stairs were rough climbing up and coming down, but the way down is much easier. The view at the top is like no other. If youre in the area this is something you should definitely do! I would do this again, and again.

The Koko Crater Botanical gardens are awesome when in full bloom. This time they were partial bloom for us. It is a pleasant walk, very peaceful and quite. It is free which is a bonus and would be a fun place for a picnic.

We hiked all the way up to the top. It was tiring so pace yourself. Such a great workout with such an awesome reward on top - beautiful views of Waikiki, hanauma bay and ocean horizon. This is a must do but go early

Great place to walk a 2 mile trail and see lots of cool trees and flowers!

Absolutely stunning views if youve managed to hike to the top of Koko Crater. The hike is definitely a difficult one and I would only recommend it for more experienced hikers. It can be dangerous as there are no safety rails to hold onto while hiking. You will definitely be full of sweat less than halfway through. Be absolutely prepared for the most rewarding view at the top.

This free garden was on of the highlights of my visit. I cant recommend this more! So much to learn and I suggest you spend about 1.5 hours on the self guided tour.

Well worth the hike up. You won’t think so on the hike down though. Beautiful views all around. Good!

Amazing hike, hard, and worth every step to see the view at the top and to enjoy the accomplishment of the climb.. It can be a good quick hike if you are in shape or goes a bit slower if not in shape.. Always a must do for me when I can. Plan a hour if you want to go at a steady pace and relax at the top before the slow downward steps..

What an amazing view once you get to the top! Its definitely a workout and I wouldnt recommend it to anyone with leg or knee issues. But the view at the top is very rewarding!

Awesome botanical garden with interesting terrain and a plethora of amazing plants to look at. It is a desert environment within the crater and it is surprising how many beautiful plants are able to thrive in such dry conditions. If you have some time and like a little hike come and visit this gem.

Excellent workout. 1080 steps to one of the best views. View is good even a third of the way

Great selection of plants and species from different continents and regions. Well taken care of. Very hot and dry in summer months, parking can be limited. Bring water!

Got there after 8am 6.27.20. Cool Aloha Saturday Kakahiaka. Wiped Down my Truck. Parked further away from the Crowd. Lots of Parking. Will Definitely return soon.

Amazing trek!!! I love to visit this garden trail! Not typical!!! So much to see and enjoy if youre an out door nature lover!!!

Fantastic views from the top and hike is absolutely doable if you bring plenty of water and go at your own pace. Would recommend to do this early in the morning when it’s not too hot.

This is my happy place. I come here to reset and get away from it all.

Nice and easy 2 mile loop trail. All kinds of interesting trees, plants and even cactus.Uploaded s bunch of plumeria pictures. There is a large grove of plumeria in the very beginning of the trail. You can see most of them in an easy 30 minute walk taking lots of time to take pictures.

A free botanical garden with ample parking, this xeriscape centric attraction is worth the drive.Take a picture of the map to your right as you enter, or borrow a map in the box.Enter a picturesque plumeria grove (beware the dormancy period in the winter when they lose leaves and flowers) and then wander through thematic gardens, labeled with informative signs.If you’re from Hawaii, the desert landscape is a treat compared to the lush mountains you usually hike through. If you’re from elsewhere, there’s collections from Madagascar, Africa, and even native Hawaiian plants for you to enjoy.Bring water, lather on sunscreen, wear covered shoes, and snap away! I saw many families with young kids, along with older aunties and uncles walking the short loop, so I’d label this family friendly.

The entire island has a specific smell I could not pinpoint where and what it was coming from. I came here and found the smell comes from this flower. The tree is ugly but the flower makes up for it. Extremely beautiful and comes in a variety of colors. I recommend everyone to stop by this place when visiting this island. If they had a better bathroom this place would definitely be five star.

By far one of my favorite climbs in Hawaii. This is a STRENUOUS climb. Take lots of water and take breaks as needed.You will be rewarded if you make it to the top.

A hidden treasure. Its free and even have parking at the entrance. The micro climate in the crater is amazing. Almost like a mine desert is paradise.

The railroad ties were slick due to the rain from the day before. Theres a spot in the middle where the ties are suspended so be careful of that if the environment is moist. Sunrise view was amazing.

Well kept, has many interesting exotic plants. I would recommend to everyone. Remember to bring your own water.

The first half of the trail was moderate and then it gets pretty steep. I think less experienced hikers would need to scramble up a little. It took us about an hour to get to the top with rest stops. Definitely recommend bringing water, snacks and hiking shoes. So worth it.

Beautiful view. The hike could give some people trouble because it is a bit slippery if you dont wear the right shoe. It get really hot if you not going early in the morning. A part of the trail is elevated so people that have acrophobia beware :) but the view is worth it. Take about 15-25min up and 10min down

Is beautiful place and beautiful amazing flowers for different of worldwide

If you fear bugs like centipedes, mosquitoes, ants, spiders, and caterpillars with spikes, this place is the crater of doom. Otherwise wear hiking shoes, dress comfortable, and better visit when its dry because trail will be muddy after the rains. Use toilet before you start because its about an hour walk. Only one out house. The trail isnt flat and makes great cardio. Bring water. Benches and tables are along the trail but with bugs all around. Read first sentence. Some parts of the trail will lead you to higher ground with cactus on one side and little room to walk.Overall it was a nice experience for me. Its free and not much people around. Security at the entrance. Also, visit the horse farm next to the entrance. The caretaker is a nice man.Aloha.

Beautiful garden. Very nice plumeria trees right at the start. Nice cacti further in.

This is a challenging climb but worth it. There is not a medal waiting for you at top so take your time and enjoy the view. The top offers a very nice panoramic view of Oahu

A fantastic walk which is strenuous but only for an hour or so. The views are incredible and you have a great hike with almost a full day of activities still open to you.

Amazing views. Very easy to hike. Low to kedium difficulty.

Cons: Limited paths and large stretches of common weeds between exhibits.Pros: Curated areas have amazing specimens of unusual plants from all over the world. I went to the upland palm exhibit. The plumeria grove at the entrance is amazing. They were just starting to bloom now (start of second week of February) I suspect that at the end of the month it will be full of gorgeous blossoms. It would be an awesome spot for a picnic.

Wonderful and mild 2-mile loop through a well kept park. the other side of Koko Crater hike, which is 1200ft nearly straight up. This botanical garden is accessible via Kealou Street - near the golf course. In Spring its filled with hundreds of plumeria trees in bloom, along with tons of other flowering shrubs and trees and plants. In Winter, its an emerald forest. Misty and quiet in the morning and evening. free parking, but somewhat limited. Maps at the entrance and the plants are named and marked along the trail. Trail is mild, but can be rough and rocky so wear appropriate shoes. Might need bug repellant on cooler days. A horse stable sits right next to it. Some picnic tables in the Hawaii section; port-a-potty for facilities. But very close to Koko Marina for lunch, etc. Guard at entrance

A challenging and rewarding hike. Consider the group youre with and definitely bring water and sunscreen. The view is incredible and the sensation of having worked for it supplements this mountaintop experience. Then hustle back down and treat yourself to whatever you want to eat or drink, because today youve earned it.

This was a great place and awesome hike. A little rough in areas but for being so old and so much foot traffic the trail p is looking good.

Stunning—although I wish there was more geological resources since you’re traipsing through a volcanic crater and all—and mostly empty. Bring water and SPF, as there’s little to no shade here. Port-a-potty towards the entrance. Once you get to the Baobabs, if you glance up towards the rim, you’ll see where the Koko Head hikers end up.

Its a very intermediate 2 and 1/2 mile walk through the crater with a bunch of unique plant life. Definitely a highlight was the cactus grove?

Nice place for a short hike. Bring water and good hiking boots.

Over 2000 steps but a good hike and morning view

The botanical garden was a bit sprawly, but interesting. The cacti area was nice, as were the plumerias.

Definitely dry land full of rare exotic cactus love to sketch plants and definitely beutiful when plumeria are in bloom

Very tough climb...and descend. Not for untrained people. Wonder how some of them got there... The path is very rough and bumpy, not quite a tourist destination.

What a hidden gem. Didnt know this place exist until Im about to leave.

1149 steps Very difficult climb and almost as difficult decent. Bring lots of water as there is none available for sale etc. The views at the top are amazing and worth the effort!

This is a bottom of Koko crater, so it may be very humid and hot depending on the day and season. But if you took the right day, it is such a peaceful short hiking site with cool breeze. Especially around the entrance area has tons of plumeria trees, smells really good! Going with a pair of shoes is recommended.

Walk there ‚accidentally‘ only wanted to go to the beach, then found the trail. So we went up in Flipflops and bathing suit..... so funny all the People starring. Because they all had hiking boots and gym clothes. But we made it. It was tough but worth it.

Ohh so hard to going up. But i did it. Hart hiking trail

Amazing view breathtakingThe hike is very challenging but worth every step and every ache and pain

Wow!! 1048 steps up and 1048 back down! This was definitely a challenging hike for the fit and unfit. The view at the top is breathtaking! The steps are uneven and is an old rail that would lift military supplies to the soldiers. At the top, you get to view the town below and Hanauma Bay, which is where we went right after to cool off and snorkel.

Great plumeria orchard, also loved the Madagascar area with the Pachypodiums!A real treat and its free!

I saw some of the most beautiful trees and plants and flowers here.Amazing trees that you cant see anywhere else. This is a must see.

It has lots of lovely foliage, and is a decent hike if you do the loop. A great Sunday morning relaxing walk.

Fine walk on a beautiful day. So many interesting trees, plants, & flowers. Plumaria in bloom - so sweet smelling. Some mosquitoes.

Love coming here to see the plumerias when they are in bloom, which around april, and they also have a cactus garden as well alkng the right side of the trail.

Word of advice stretch good before starting the hike. Take your time going up step off to the side to let others pass. Youll see many people taking breaks it can be trying depending on what shape your in. You also want to take in the views on the way up. It gets better and better the further up you go. The top is simply amazing. Now the trip down will be a bit worse on your knees. All in all an awesome hike.

The sunrise from here is one of the best views on this island!!

GREAT HIKE, the stairway to heaven is a workout and a half!! Typically pretty busy but wonderful any day at anytime. Hike isnt for the faint of heart its absolutely doable but your calfs will begin to beg for mercy at the halfway mark...the end of the hike is where youre exhausted physically and mentally...but heres the thing...its worth it! I wont share the picture its a prize for beating the hike. Watch your step on the way up and be extra careful on the way down, respect the others on the trail and enjoy!

The view is worth every step but, if you dont hike everyday take your time bring lots of water and snacks. be mindful of others.take down your trash( this is not keeps up by the state its done by the locals so be kind) Go slow if you have to no shame its not a race this is a hard hike. Be careful going on the bridge one wrong step and you will get hurt there is a bypass around it tho. One thing I kept seeing is people wearing long jeans or frilly dresses. . NO! Its so hot there is no shade and your litterally crawling at certain points. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. This is a hard hike. But you can do it.

Very nice gardens. Good for photography or to have a nice walk. Could be improved with real restroom facilities, but there is a porta-potty. In May, the plumerias are terrific!

Nice, easy hike/walk (about a 2 mile or so loop). Beautiful plumeria grove and cool cacti to see among plenty of other trees and plants, all hidden behind the mountainous crater walls. My 2yr old son and 75yr old mom were able to walk it, but watch out for loose rocks/gravel that are easy to slip or trip on. We have made it through before with a jogging stroller but it wasnt easy and ended up with a flat tire by the end (lots of thorns!). There are a few picnic tables along the way for snacks/resting. Plus its FREE (even including the parking). We always go late afternoon/early evening and feel like we have the place to ourselves. Highly suggest applying insect repellent.*Please note this review is for KOKO CRATER BOTANICAL GARDEN which is different then the Koko Crater Railway Trail. The railway Trail goes up the wall of Koko head and is a much more difficult hike. Many of the reviews on here talk about that hike but should be on the Koko Crater Railway Trail page.

Fantastic Hike. Be sure to go early as it gets hot quick. Take your time...plan on at least 30 monites each way. If not in good shape longer.

A self guided tour through this tuff cone a 2mile loop with multiple different pathways through amazing palms and trees and cacti. Below see a giant yucca and it’s white flowers, who knew they grew that large!

They aren’t kidding when they say this is strenuous! But the view is GORGEOUS and so worth it. Take plenty of cold water!

Bus or bike ride, all Natural and peaceful hike, a valley like absorbing all kinds of gardens, plumeria to cactus to figs trees. In the Koko Head Crater.

Looks easy...but its hard and dangerous

Climbing to the top of the mountain. Its not easy.Take a lot of water with you

First visit....Real nice place to visit for piece and quiet...sorta out of the way. Parking is easy..wasnt busy. About 2 miles of loop..great photo op from inside crater...the plant life inside is a study of more desert plants...crazy catus...check out the trees and cactus combos. Dirt path uneven but easy to walk. Dont forget to look up at the crest of the crater. Birds and a mongoose...i would suggest more labeling of the plant life, but you can see someone has done a lot of work...so thank you for this. I will definitely vist again.....

Gorgeous garden! Its in a very dry part of the island, so theres lots of cacti and trees, but its not super lush-green like the gardens on the windward side (eastern coast). Theres tons of plumeria trees and benches underneath. A great place to relax, read a book, make art, or meditate. Theres also a 2-3 mile dirt road around the property that makes for a beautiful afternoon stroll to see plants from all over the world growing in harmony. Its also a great place to escape crowds as well, as its normally quiet.

Super beautiful home and reminded me of manitou springs in Colorado. When you get to the top it’s absolutely gorgeous panoramic views.

This is one of the most incredible places on Oahu. AND ITS FREE

Pretty short but definitely a challenging hike! So worth it when you get to the top though.

Take in the beautifully maintained gardens during the relaxing, easy walk around the loop. Many different types of trees and plants to see. The flowers were magnificent when we went.

It is a must climb for capable people.

Its a fun, easy walk/hike that has magnificent plants and trees inside of Koko Crater.

Well worth the small hike to get to the beach. The left side has the blow hole

Amazing views. Steep climb, slow and steady. Take your time and then enjoy the views and the accomplishment

Beautiful place. The sea life was interactive lol (2 sea lions rested on shore and posed for a pic when I asked him toand a squid appeared to be swimming with us-later realized he was floating)I spent time there for sure-like 5hrs. Went for the beach and hoped to snorkel, but the sand was too stirred up (check out pic with son in the water and its not clear enough to see thru) and though its less crowded than other beaches on the island, it was still pretty crowded.Left more to be desired, but I also had this general feeling considering how so many ppl love Hawaii

Kicks my BUTT Every time but I Love it!!!

The hike up is quite difficult. But absolutely worth the hike if you can make it.

Nice place to go for a walk in the shade and see a bunch of different kinds of plants. There is one portable washroom near the entrance (when you walk in the gate, go left along the path). I would recommend checking it out if you are in the area!

This hike was great! Not too difficult but not easy. Theres plenty of gaps you can fall thru or miss if youre not paying attention. Definitely do it during the day because at night theres not much to see. Bring plenty of water & hiking or workout shoes. Some people were in flip flops but its all on you. I will definitely do it again!!

Great experience and view but a bit challenging hike for non-hikers

I took my towel elephant, Donald Trunk, to the top of this crater. It was moderately difficult and we both loved it. If you think you reached the top, keep going! Beautiful scenic routes are just around the corner.

Amazing hike with amazing views.

Not for the faint of heart. Make sure you are in good physical condition for this. There is no shade mid day so go early morning or late afternoon.

We probably came in the wrong season, about the only thing to see in February seem to be the cactus garden. Yes, there is really a cactus garden in Hawaii.

Love the blue ocean and wonderful fish. Bring sunscreen.

Nice view...hike is challenging

Great hike and a good gauge in how in-shape you are.

It was nice, quiet, and peaceful. My girlfriend and I had a nice time walking through. Lots of flowers and cool trees from all over the world.

Love the cactus section! And the plumeria grove is so pretty when in bloom.

Beautiful & Easy loop hike. Free. Parking is small.

Very challenging trail to the top but at the end is all worth it. Great view and windy to cool down

Good hike! The view is worth the sweat.

Koko head climb consisted of 1048 steps of old eroded railway tracks. It rises up about 1200 feet from the base. Good shoes help with steady footing as some parts of the hike could be slippery due to dry/wet dust. Great views of surrounding areas.

Most challenging hike Ive done so far. Go early to beat the sun otherwise its that much harder. Also, please hydrate yourself and take plenty if water.