Traffic can sometimes be heavy heading back towarsds the boat between 4 and 6 It would normally take 30 to 35 min to dive from Lihue to the gardens. If i read your question right you are going in the morning. You MUST make a reservation. Just call them directly. Leave the boat at 8 am. Stop at Java Kai in Kapaa on the one. It is a local coffee and pastry spot. Very good. Plan for a 930 or 10 tour. Are you bringing kids? It is really a great spot to visit. As well it may be raining so plan ahead and watch the weather forecast. They Also have a nice gift shop. Have fun. Parking is easy. It will be on your right hand side when driving. And you turn down a road about a half mile to the entrance.

While I don't actually know - the property is "high" and so water would drain off quickly.

I don't believe so. Plus there's no way to see the entire place just by walking. Highly recommend the Stroll/ride tour. Cover way more ground, and the guides are really knowledgeable.

Sorry for the late response. I would think that infants would be allowed on the tram. You could always call and ask them. They are very friendly and helpful.

Not so much. But a lot depends on your family, including the young folks' attention spans and their interests. The children's playground and Navajo village was lovely, interesting as one stop on our tour, but it might not hold the attention of active older children for very long. You don't want them to feel "stuck on the fenced in playground with the babies" at that age, when there is so much more all around them they will want to "go see." I might recommend the strolling tour for the same shorter time frame, more 9-11 year old exercise, and more self-determination in exploration, especially if they are boys. The stroll-and-ride covers the whole property and offers constant variety - many fascinating and humorous sculptures, tastings of edibles, additional structures, magical forests, and an "albatross landing field," as well as 'gardens and a playground.' You do spend as much time off the vehicle as on it. This the tour which I actually took, and one I would feel comfortable choosing for my two sons when they were those ages. But it is a full three hours, which can feel like a long time. If you all are really active, pretty steady on your feet and have a little hiking experience, your family might enjoy the beach walk. I'd recommend calling the visitor center first and discussing your children's particular interests before you make your reservation. The staff are hospitable and perceptive. They keep their groups quite small. All guides do vary activities, and they provide plenty of personal attention. Going early, in the cool of the morning, on the first tour of the day, can also help your guide to personalize the experience for your children. I hope you all enjoy Na Aina Kai, whichever tour you select!