Learning Adventures

Science in Hamakua

Waterfall in Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. Photo courtesy Big Island Visitor Bureau.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: A commercial 40-acre rainforest preserve with more than 2,000 species of tropical plants from around the world. Ferns, palms, heliconia and other beautiful and rare tropical species attract botanists, gardeners and scientists from around the world. 27-717 Old Mamalahoa Hwy., Papaikou. (808) 964-5233 www.hawaiigarden.com. Papaikou.

World Botanical Gardens: A commercial garden with more than 5,000 species of Hawaiian and tropical flora, plus lovely Umauma Falls. Great for invigorating walks and a dip in natural ponds. Honomu. www.worldbotanicalgardens.com.