Honolulu Hale

Honolulu Hale is downtown Honolulu's historic city hall, home to city government, Spanish Colonial architecture and Honolulu City Lights.

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Honolulu Hale

Honolulu Hale, Oahu

Pronounced “HAH-leh” in the Hawaiian language and meaning house or home, Honolulu Hale means House of Honolulu. Honolulu Hale is the official seat of government of the city and county, site of the chambers of the Mayor of Honolulu and the Honolulu City Council. The building is located on King Street in downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places with the United States Department of Interior.

Honolulu Hale was built in a California Spanish colonial architectural style; its inner courtyard, staircase and ceiling were modeled after the Bargello in Florence. In 1951, two three-story wings were added to the original structure. The Hale is surrounded by other historic landmarks, such as the Hawaii State Capitol, Iolani Palace, the Mission Houses Museum and Kawaiahao Church.

The annual Honolulu City Lights celebration takes place on the grounds surrounding Honolulu Hale every year in the beginning of December. A large Christmas tree is put up in front of Honolulu Hale together with Shaka Santa and Tutu Mele and more Christmas displays inside.

Key Features

Official city hall: Seat of government for the City and County of Honolulu
Downtown Honolulu location: Located at 530 South King Street in the Capitol District
Mayor and City Council: Houses the Mayor's office, City Council chambers and civic functions
Historic architecture: Known for Spanish Colonial-style design and civic character
National Register district: Part of the historic government and civic core of Honolulu
Public business hours: Current City Council listing shows Monday-Friday, 7:45am-4:30pm
Public access varies: Meetings, holidays, security and events can affect access
Honolulu City Lights: Major holiday celebration takes place around the city hall grounds
Civic photo stop: Exterior, courtyard details and surrounding landmarks add visual interest
Nearby Iolani Palace: Easy to combine with monarchy history and Capitol District stops
Near Hawaii State Capitol: Convenient for a government-centered walking route
Short downtown visit: Best as part of a broader Honolulu historic and civic walk

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Honolulu Hale located?

Honolulu Hale is located at 530 South King Street in downtown Honolulu, in the Capitol District.

What does Honolulu Hale mean?

Honolulu Hale means House of Honolulu. Hale means house or building in Hawaiian.

What is Honolulu Hale used for?

It serves as the official city hall for the City and County of Honolulu and houses the Mayor's office, City Council chambers and other civic functions.

Can visitors go inside Honolulu Hale?

Public access can vary because it is a working government building. Current City Council information lists weekday business hours, but visitors should check current access details before going inside.

What is Honolulu Hale known for during the holidays?

Honolulu Hale is known for Honolulu City Lights, a popular holiday celebration with decorations, displays and community events around the city hall grounds.