The former summer vacation home of Hawaiian royalty and former residence of Kamehameha the Great, the Hulihe’e Palace is located on famous Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona, HI. In 1927, after years of disuse, the Daughters of Hawaiʻi (a group dedicated to preserving the culture of Hawaii) restored Huliheʻe Palace and transformed it into a museum. In 1973, the Hulihe’e Royal Palace was finally placed on the National Register of Historic Places, protecting Hawaii’s history for generations to come.
The museum showcases a variety of Victorian artifacts from the same era as King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. Items at The Palace include beautiful koa wood furniture, portraits, kapa fabric, feather work, Hawaiian quilts, ornaments and other artifacts.
Also, on a special Sunday each month, the Hulihe‘e Palace puts on the Afternoon at Hulihe‘e Palace. Open to the public, this cultural day has hula dancing, oli chants, and kanikapila free Hawaiian music performances from the Hulihee Palace Band and the Merrie Monarchs Chorale. Celebrate Hawaiian culture on the lawn of the Palace at this family friendly event.
Besides the Hulihe’e Royal Palace, other historic landmarks in Kailua-Kona include Mokuaikaua Church, which is right across the street and Hawaii’s first Christian Church. Ahuena Heiau is also in Kailua-Kona and is a temple of peace and prosperity built by King Kamehameha I.
Things to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Sunscreen, Hat and Sunglasses
- Water bottle
Reserve an IMI Tour of Kona and see the Hulihe’e Royal Palace for yourself! The Hulihe‘e Palace is featured on IMI’s Kona History and Culture Tour, book yours today or find more about things to do in Hawaii. Need a ride? Use local rideshare service holoholo and book in minutes or schedule in advance.
