There are 87-acres to explore at South Coast Botanic Garden, so we don’t blame you if you didn’t know there are 10 meadows and lawn areas for visitors to enjoy here. Whether you’re looking for an area to let the kids run around, enjoy a picnic, rest in the shade, or watch wildlife (birds, rabbits, lizards, butterflies, even a peacock), these areas are the PERFECT place to spend a couple of afternoon hours. To help you pick the most idyllic spot for your next visit to the Garden, we’ve rounded up our 10 meadows and lawn areas below. These are listed in order starting in Palm Circle, walking down the Promenade, and continuing clock wise.
1. Upper Meadow
The most easily accessible and largest meadow, the Upper Meadow is located close to the Garden’s entrance and exit. The meadow’s beautiful gazebo has been the site of many wedding ceremonies and the meadow itself is often where Garden events are held. Making this space even more of an attraction is its stunning Apricot Trumpet tree, which blooms in early spring.
Photo credit: Jeff Staton
2. Lavender Garden Lawn
Nestled between the Lavender and Grass Gardens, you’ll find this beautiful grassy area perfect for a picnic. When the lavender is in bloom, the area is one of the most photogenic areas of the entire Garden. The picturesque setting is also just small enough (seriously, it’s and not even on the map!) to keep the masses away and can feel like you’re in a Yosemite Valley meadow.
3. Banyan Lawn
If you or your kids enjoy climbing through the Banyan Tree roots, then the Banyan Lawn is the perfect place to set up shop. Plus, the Banyan Trees create some of the best shade in the Garden!
4. Sakura Meadow
Just past the Palm Garden you’ll find Sakura Meadow, home to the Firestone sculpture by Peter Voulkos which is part of our Hide and Seek exhibition. The meadow is also sprinkled with trees throughout that make plenty of shade for those looking to sit and relax.
5. Hidden Meadow
As you continue along Tram Road, near Acacia Loop, you’ll find a trail that leads you to the secluded Hidden Meadow, which is actually much larger than one would originally assume. It’s a favorite of the Garden’s many cottontail rabbits, and the pine trees make it one of the Garden’s shadiest areas.
6. Phoebe’s Meadow
Phoebe’s Meadow is home to not one but two sculptures from our Hide and Seek exhibit. On the right side of Tram Road is Trace, seen above, by Nancy Graves, and on the left side is One on One by Richard Artschwager. Both sides are also peppered with Floss Silk Trees that offer shade and additional eye candy.
7. Hawk’s Meadow
This meadow is surprisingly large and it’s shape allows groups to nestle into areas where they can feel like they are the only ones in the entire Garden. Plus, this meadow is home to Hide and Seek’s Four Lines Oblique Gyratory-Square, adding an extra flare to the already beautiful space.
8. Memorial Meadow
Tucked between Memorial and Mesquite lanes lies this small meadow. There is not much shade here, but there is a bench to sit and marvel the meadow’s centerpiece – Teha by Mark di Suvero. Yes, you guessed it, it’s also part of our Hide and Seek exhibit.
Photo Credit: Jeff Staton
9. Amphitheater Lawn
Located below the Rose Garden and next to the amphitheater, this lawn is absolutely stunning during the spring season with its cherry blossoms and daffodils taking center stage. The tree at the lower edge of the Garden also has a bird house that attracts adorable little birds to the area.
10. Lower Meadow
The Lower Meadow is another popular location for brides and grooms. From its charming gazebo to its trees and rose blooms attracting dozens of birds and butterflies, this beautiful meadow has a lot to offer – including plenty of shade!
The Garden has remained open to serve the community by being a place to encourage wellness and health through nature and open space. Please help keep us open by considering a gift to the Garden. You can do so here.
