The Kona area of the Big Island is much drier than the Hilo side to the east that receives about 130 inches of rain per year, which is why Pua Mau Place doesn't resemble a tropical rainforest like the Pana'ewa Zoo.

But there are still many colorful flowers, trees and other plants for visitors to admire. Other features of the garden include free roaming peacocks, an aviary, a visitors center, a hibiscus flower maze, and an amazing panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

To reach Pua Mau Place Botanical Garden, set your GPS for 10 Ala Kahua Drive, Kawaihae, HI 96743 or the intersection of Ala Kahua Dr. & Ewalina Pl (just past Pua Mau). For more information via phone, call (808) 882-0888.