After Hurricane Lowell, NTBG’s Kauaʻi gardens partially reopen tours while Limahuli remains closed
In a September 25, 2026 Hurricane Lowell update, the National Tropical Botanical Garden said Lāwaʻi Gardens on Kauaʻi’s south shore—Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden—was operating limited tours through an alternative departure arrangement. Although the road to the usual visitor center remains closed, tours are being offered from NTBG headquarters.
By contrast, Limahuli Garden & Preserve on Kauaʻi’s north shore remains temporarily closed after initial cleanup because power has not been restored and road access is restricted to local traffic. NTBG said the Limahuli team is shifting attention to work in the preserves and support for the north shore community’s recovery.
According to NTBG, Lowell passed about 60 miles west of Kauaʻi on the night of September 7, 2026, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall and coastal inundation. The organization said all three of its Kauaʻi garden sites were significantly affected, with downed trees and storm debris blocking roads and pathways in Lāwaʻi Gardens and nearby areas.
The damage affects not only garden operations but also plant conservation infrastructure. NTBG said the three sites hold extensive living collections of major cultural, scientific and conservation value, and recovery work includes removing fallen trees, hauling green waste, restoring safe access, and carrying out plant rescue and restoration measures.
The case highlights the reality that public gardens and botanical institutions must balance visitor operations, community support and protection of living collections after climate-related disasters. NTBG said repairs at its three Kauaʻi sites will be needed over the coming months, and further schedules for Limahuli and Lāwaʻi will be announced through official updates.
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