Sherman Gardens Corona Del Mar Day Trip

It’s little surprise that Sherman Gardens is regularly ranked as the top attraction in the pretty California town of Corona Del Mar. This hidden gem covers over two acres of land packed with flora and fauna from around the globe.

Sherman is not just an ordinary botanical garden. It houses an extensive collection of books covering the Pacific Southwest’s history.

The Sherman Library and Gardens were founded in 1955 as a nursery. Throughout the years, numerous plant species have been introduced to the grounds. The moderate coastal weather provides an ideal environment for a diverse range of trees, shrubs, flowers, and succulents to flourish.

Everything from exotic orchids to a California pepper tree is on display. The gardeners on staff lovingly nurture desert cacti, herbs, and a fantastic and super-fragrant Rose Garden.

Wide brick walkways link the gardens, conservatories, patios, and fountains making everything easily accessible for elderly or disabled guests. The Fern Grotto houses staghorn fern specimens that are over 40 years old.

The Japanese Garden offers a serene escape and is an ideal spot for moments of tranquil reflection. Bo trees hold religious significance for Buddhist and Hindu followers, and it’s fitting that one of these sacred trees has grown among other Asian flora in the garden.

Be sure and spend a few minutes in the heat and humidity of the Tropical Conservatory. Surround yourself with the unique heliconias, gingers, and other exotic imports. Impossibly, everything seems to somehow be perpetually in bloom. A pond with koi always delights the kids; the massive carp are kept very well-fed!

If you’re a garlic enthusiast, you might not know that there are some unusual types of this aromatic seasoning out there. Look at the Sherman Herb Garden to discover garlic plants in flavors like society, chocolate, and orange-mint. The Herb Garden isn’t just for display purposes, either. The onsite restaurant, Café Jardin, incorporates these fresh herbs into their “coastal garden” cuisine.

Café Jardin Restaurant

Indeed, the handmade crepes, freshly baked pastries, and other goodies make a stop at the gardens worthwhile, even for those with no interest in botany. The setting is spectacular; the café has been set up in the center of the gardens, allowing diners to enjoy their meals al fresco.

Rain is a rarity in this corner of California, but there is a covered area to move to should the skies open up. In Spring and Summer, a Sunday Brunch service is not to be missed.

Sherman Gardens Tea Garden Patio

Sherman Gardens frequently hosts weddings, anniversary parties, and meetings. Indoor and outdoor spaces are available for private ceremonies and celebrations. The Tea Garden Patio features a wisteria-covered arbor perfect for photos.

The Central Patio Room boasts a brick fireplace, high cathedral ceilings, vintage wooden beams, and French doors that lead to a roomy terrace.

Sherman Gardens Research Library

The Sherman Library is a dedicated space for preserving the history of the Pacific Southwest. It is located in a building that used to be a home and features a collection of various print materials.

The library also showcases changing displays and exhibits. The library is not circulating, so no books may leave the premises. Nevertheless, students of all ages and disciplines are welcome at the library to collect information.

Where are Sherman Gardens?

Free onsite parking is available at Sherman Library and Gardens, 2647 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA. However, there may be a small entrance fee.

Southern California Gardens to Enjoy Nature

Richard Nixion Library Yorba Linda

Huntington Library and Gardens