Allerton Garden

While plants are the stars of the garden, other eye-catching features range from fountains to statues. Visits are by tour only, but options include combining Allerton Garden with the nearby McBryde Garden. Twilight tours let you see the garden under the night sky. If you want to visit the former home of garden founder Robert Allerton, you'll need to sign up for a special sunset tour.

• Wear insect repellant, especially if you’re going on one of the sunset or twilight tours.

• Garden tours mean a lot of walking. Closed-toed shoes or hiking sandals are required of all visitors and bringing a water bottle is a good idea.

• The gardens aren't easy to navigate by wheelchair, but they can make accommodations for people needing mobility support with advance notice.

• Make sure to bring a flashlight if you’re visiting the garden after dark.

Allerton Garden is situated on the southern coast of Kauai, about a half-hour drive from Lihue or a little over an hour by Kilauea. You’re best off either taking a taxi or driving yourself, as the garden is not on any of the island’s limited bus lines.

Allerton Garden is open Tuesday through Saturday year-round. The best time to visit is between November and March, when there's a lower chance of rain and temperatures tend to be a few degrees cooler than in summer. Tours run from first thing in the morning until well into the afternoon. If you’re sensitive to heat, opt for a morning tour.

If you're looking for an extra-special experience, consider signing up for the Allerton by Fire program, which includes a garden visit, dinner, and Polynesian music, dance, and fire knife show for up to 10 people. The meals include locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and chicken, seafood, and vegan options are available.