If you are looking for a relaxing, stroll through lush, tropical gardens then Waimea Valley Audobon Center and Foster Botanical Gardens on the north side of the island on Hwy 83 might be just the place for you. The park, around 1,900 acres of flora and fauna, has interesting displays and easy to navigate, concrete pathways. 

An easy, two mile hike will take you to Waimea Falls where you can even swim in the pool if you want. There are changing places at the park entrance as well as near the falls. When the area has sufficient water, there are life guards in the area around the pool. Children under 12 will have to wear a life vest but these are free at the pool area. Since this pool is fed by river water and many people do enter the chilly, 70 degree water, there can be bacteria in the water so consider well whether you really do want to swim here.

While the falls drop 40 feet, the ebb and flow of the water varies with the amount of rain and the season. When the falls are running heavy, this can be a gorgeous sight but at other times of the year, like during the summer, the falls may be meager or may even stop flowing altogether. While not the most spectacular falls in the islands, when there is sufficient water flowing, they are definitely worth a visit.  If you visit in summer, be sure to call ahead to find out if the falls are flowing before making the drive if seeing Waimea Falls flowing is important to you.  If you don’t, you may get there and find the falls closed.

Entrance to the park costs $10 for adults and $5 for children 4-12. Parking will also cost a few dollars. While the park is not new, it is generally clean and there are several restaurants and restrooms or port-a-potties located throughout the park. Remember that this is a jungle with plenty of moisture so be sure to bring bottled water, mosquito repellant and sunscreen. Wear a hat and sturdy shoes and be sure to bring your camera to capture some of the beautiful peacocks and tropical plant life that you will see here.  If you are looking for strenuous hiking in the Hawaiian rainforest or more exciting things to do, then cross this destination off of your list. This park is for people who want a gentle hike around beautiful scenery where people with strollers or even walkers can enjoy the Hawaiian tropical forests.