With a climate unlike the rest of the United States, Hawaii is home to some of the country’s most unique botanical gardens. These gardens feature thousands of species of tropical plants as well as flora indigenous to our beautiful gardens, and while they are all gorgeous in their own way, there is one garden that stands out in a crowd. Not only is the 35-acre Moir Gardens quite beautiful, but it also just so happens to be one of the best cactus gardens in the country — surprising, considering the Aloha State’s known for its lush landscapes.
Nestled to the west of Poipu Beach Park on the southern coast of Kauai, Moir Gardens is located within the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation and is open daily without charge.
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Moir Gardens is nestled on 35 gorgeous acres and was founded in the 1930s by Alexandra Moir while her husband was the manager of Hawaii’s first sugar cane plantation, Koloa Plantation.
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The particularly dry climate found here in Poipu means that many of Hawaii’s most iconic tropical plants — like heliconia, ginger, and hibiscus — don’t grow well here. Moir realized this early on and filled her garden with cactus and succelents that thrive in a dry climate.
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By 1948, the private gardens were reportedly identified as one of the best cactus and succulent gardens in the world. The garden was opened to the public in 1954 and has since beome a popular visitor attraction home to rare plants and native species alike.
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In addition to rare cactus and succulents that rival the world’s premier cactus gardens, you will also find a variety bromeliads, orchids, mature trees, and several lava rock ponds filled with water lilies and koi fish.
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If solitude is what you seek, a leisurely stroll through Moir Gardens is a must. Just don’t forget your camera — you’ll want to fill your memory card with all sorts of cactus photographs.
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So, what are you waiting for? Beauty is found around every corner at this little-known Hawaii botanical garden.
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Address: Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation, 2253 Poipu Road, Poipu, HI 96756
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For more information, click here. Have you ever been to the enchanting Moir Gardens before? What’s your favorite Hawaiian garden? Share your go-to spots in the comments below, and then head on over to our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group to share your favorite flora photos.
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