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The 400 fragrant acres of this park also function as a flood-control facility. The area takes in themed plantings, trails, camp sites, a visitor center, and a lake.

Planted by an Englishman, this park has a small lake, groves of ginger and bamboo, a well-kept lawn, a gazebo, and a pavilion. It is a popular venue for wedding ceremonies.

Yes, it’s a cemetery but it’s also a place to take in the islands’ cultural diversity and the beauty of the Ko’olau mountains. It’s not uncommon to see entire families picnicking near the graves of loved ones; graves of Buddhists are equipped with food and incense to honor the spirits.

At the rear of the memorial park, against the mountains, this other-worldly structure is worth the park admission alone. It’s a scale replica of the 900-year-old temple at Uji in Japan, watched over by an immense incense-wreathed Buddha. Enjoy feeding the swans and banging the deep-toned gong.

Visible throughout the district, this peninsula is, alas, out of bounds because it’s home to a military base. Despite the hum of aircraft, it’s a beautiful sight.

This islet has a varied history and is now the site of a biological research facility, famous for its study of marine life, especially coral.

Perched on a hillside, this interpretive park hosts educational activities aimed at explaining the area’s use as both an aquaculture center and a sacred site where spirits entered the afterlife.

The 80-acre Kahalu’u Fishpond is one of a handful of working ponds that date from a time when traditional Hawaiians farmed fish using rock walls fitted with mākaha – slatted gates that let fingerlings out but denied escape to larger fish.

Bordering Waihe’e Stream and straddling Kamehameha Highway, Kahalu’u Regional Park has created a new focus in the Kahalu’u area. Its many activities include ball-fields, a gym and swimming pool, a beach park, boat launch, and canoe house.

Horseback riding, Kahalu’u

A lopsided conical island, visible from He’eia to Kualoa, Mokoli’i is oft-visited by kayakers. It is said to be the remains of a giant mo’o (lizard god).