Kamehameha I Statue Kapaʻau

The statue is located in Kapaau on the North Kohala coast of the Big Island. It's accessible by car, and many visitors enjoy the scenic drive through the Kohala mountains to reach it.

Yes, there is free street parking available directly in front of the Old Kohala Courthouse, which is adjacent to the statue.

The statue is prominently located in the North Kohala Civic Center in Kapaau, making it easy to spot once you arrive in town.

Absolutely! The statue is a great stop on a North Kohala scenic drive, often combined with visits to Pololu Valley lookout or Hawi town.

From the Kona side, take Highway 19 north, which becomes Highway 270. The drive offers beautiful coastal views. From the Hilo side, you'll drive across the island via Highway 19.

No, there is no admission fee to visit the King Kamehameha I Statue in Kapaau. It's a free public monument.

The statue is an outdoor monument and is accessible at any time. The surrounding shops and courthouse may have specific operating hours.

While there aren't specific tours for just the statue, many Big Island tours include a stop in North Kohala, allowing you to see it.

It's a significant historical landmark and a worthwhile stop, though it's generally less crowded than the larger statues in Honolulu or Hilo.

As an outdoor public space, general respect for the monument and the surrounding civic center is expected.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun.

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone in the area.

You can capture the impressive bronze statue, the surrounding civic center, and the charming Kapaau town.

Yes, the historic Kapaau town offers quaint storefronts and street scenes that make for interesting complementary photos.

Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos with the statue as a memento of their visit.

King Kamehameha I was the founder and first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, known for uniting the Hawaiian Islands.

This statue in Kapaau is the original statue of King Kamehameha I, predating the more famous ones in Honolulu and Hilo. It holds a unique place in Hawaiian history.

The statue was commissioned in Italy, but famously got lost at sea during transit. It was eventually recovered and brought to Kapaau.

Yes, King Kamehameha Day is celebrated annually in June with various ceremonies and events across the islands, including lei draping. +1

King Kamehameha the Great resided in Kapaau during his final years, dedicating his time to peace and prosperity after uniting the islands.