Smith's Tropical Paradise


Other gardens might have fancier landscaping, but you can’t beat Smith’s for value. Take a leisurely stroll along a mile-long loop trail past a serene pond, grassy lawns and island-themed gardens. The setting can seem Disney-esque, with an Easter Island moai statue replica, but it’s as appealing as it is unpretentious.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Holoholoku Heiau

0.37 MILES

Thought to be the oldest luakini (temple dedicated to the war god Ku, often a place for human sacrifice) on the island, Holoholoku Heiau is located a…

2. Coco Palms Resort

0.59 MILES

In decades past, it was Kauaʻi's most iconic beachfront resort hotel.

3. Hikina'akala Heiau

0.64 MILES

In the sacred Waimea River Valley, the Hikinaʻakala Heiau sits south of the Wailua River mouth, which is today the north end of Lydgate Beach Park. In its…

4. Poliʻahu Heiau

0.64 MILES

Perched high on a hill overlooking the meandering Wailua River, well-preserved Poliʻahu Heiau, a luakini (temple dedicated to war god Ku), is named after…

5. Lydgate Beach Park

0.77 MILES

A narrow stretch of blond sand strewn with driftwood can entertain restless kids of all ages, all afternoon. Generally safe swimming can be found in two…

6. Wailua River State Park

0.79 MILES

To ancient Hawaiians, the Wailua River was among the most sacred places across the islands. The river basin, near its mouth, was one of the island’s two…

7. ʻOpaekaʻa Falls Lookout

0.82 MILES

While not a showstopper, these 150ft-high waterfalls make for an easy roadside stop, less than 2 miles up Kuamoʻo Rd. For the best photographs, go in the…