Hulihe'e Palace
Hulihe'e Palace in Kailua-Kona is a historic royal residence that served as a summer retreat for Hawaiian monarchs in the 19th century. Built in 1838, the Victorian-style mansion now functions as a museum showcasing royal artifacts, koa wood furniture, and cultural treasures. Visitors can explore Hawaiian history and attend monthly hula and music performances held on its grounds.
Hulihe'e Palace, Big Island
Relive the life of the Hawaiian mornarchs in this stylish mansion, located in downtown Kailua-Kona. The Victorian-style Hulihe'e Palace (view panorama) × was commissioned in 1838 by John Adams Kuakini, Hawaii's second governor. It served as a summer home to Hawaii's royal families, including King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani.
Today, the palace offers a glimpse into the lives of royals in the 19th century. Various relics and artifacts are displayed. Make sure to check out the koa furniture, intricately crafted from the acacia koa tree. Especially impressive is the big formal dining table, which measures 70 inches (1,78 m) in diameter. It was constructed from one solid koa log.
Upstairs are two remarkable cabinets, which were built by a Chinese prisoner serving a life sentence for smuggling opium. He was instructed to build these pieces of furniture by King Kalakaua, who was told of his talents. When he was finished, the cabinets made such a big impression on the King that he pardoned the craftsman.
An earthquake partially destroyed the palace in 2006, but repairs were immediately put in place and the palace is again open to the public. It is now run by the Daughters of Hawaii, an organization dedicated to preserving Hawaiian history and culture.
Many also consider Hulihe'e Palace a hub for folk entertainment. A music and hula concert is held here every month, each one honoring one of the Hawaiian monarchs. The concerts are free of charge and begin at 4 pm.
The palace lies across the street from Moku'aikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in the state. Like Hulihe'e Palace, it is made from coral mortar and lava rock and features New England-style architecture. Its most prominent feature is a steeple rising 112 feet (34 m), making it the tallest man-made structure in Kailua-Kona.
Key Features of Hulihe'e Palace
- Historic royal residence: Built in 1838 for Governor John Adams Kuakini; later served as a royal vacation home
- Museum of Hawaiian monarchy: Houses royal artifacts, furnishings, portraits, and gifts from the Kalakaua era
- Architectural highlights: Victorian-style structure built from lava rock and coral mortar
- Koa wood craftsmanship: Features a 70-inch dining table carved from a single koa tree trunk
- Unique story exhibits: Includes Chinese-crafted furniture that earned a royal pardon
- Free hula concerts: Monthly music and dance events held on the palace lawn honoring Hawaiian monarchs
- Operated by Daughters of Hawaii: A nonprofit organization preserving native culture and historical sites
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of Hulihe'e Palace?
Hulihe'e Palace served as a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, including King Kalakaua and Queen Kapi'olani, and offers a glimpse into 19th-century royal life.
What can I see inside the palace?
The palace features royal furnishings, koa wood pieces, portraits, personal artifacts, and unique handcrafted items from the Hawaiian Kingdom era.
Are there events or performances at Hulihe'e Palace?
Yes, the palace hosts monthly hula and Hawaiian music concerts on the lawn, free to the public and dedicated to Hawaiian monarchs.
Is Hulihe'e Palace open to the public?
Yes, it operates as a museum and is open for guided tours. Check their official site for current hours and admission fees.
Where is the palace located?
Hulihe'e Palace is located at 75-5718 Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona, directly across from the historic Mokuaikaua Church.