Garden of Eden Arboretum
Perched on a hillside along the Road to Hana, this 26-acre tropical arboretum gives you dense layers of exotic foliage, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping ocean views all within a single location. The mix of canopy coverage and open overlooks means you can move between intimate close-up work on orchids and heliconias and wide compositions taking in Keopuka Rock rising from the Pacific below. A telephoto in the 70-200mm range works well for compressing the coastal scenery, while a macro lens rewards anyone willing to slow down on the garden trails. Overcast mornings are ideal here, as the cloud diffusion softens harsh shadows and makes greens and flower colors pop without blowing out highlights. Arrive early before tour groups from Hana Highway stops arrive, wear shoes with grip for the hillside paths, and note that an entrance fee applies and drones are not permitted on the property. (Haiku, Maui, Hawaii, United States)
