Nani Mau Gardens

Big Island Guide Travel Guide

Nani Mau Gardens Overview

The Nani Mau Gardens in Hawaii, was founded by Makato Nitahara in 1972. The 20-acre area had previously been used to grow papayas and was beautifully transformed into a tropical garden. The gardens have passed through several owners over the years and all of them have added their own vision for the garden.

The garden changed hands in May 2022 and is primarily offered as an event space now, but does host some cultural gatherings and has some unique food offerings such as a Shabu Shabu experience that requires advanced reservations.

Located 3 miles south of Hilo on the Big Island, the humid, tropical climate zone that the gardens are located in stretches north from the Puna district, through Hilo and up the Hamakua Coast from sea level to as high as the 3,000-foot elevation.

Rainfall levels range from 127 inches to 300 inches at higher elevations annually; therefore, the gardens are filled with a great variety of tropical plants, beautiful flowers, and a variety of trees. With all this splendor, it’s no wonder the word “Nani Mau” means “forever beautiful.”

As a scenic spot for tourists, family celebrations, community events and even weddings, the gardens have been described as a “hidden gem” and “beautiful, serene and educational”.

Nani Mau Gardens