Kamehameha I Statue Kapaʻau
Discover the original bronze statue of King Kamehameha I, a testament to Hawaiian history and the unifier of the islands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Kamehameha I Statue Kapaʻau
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the original bronze statue of King Kamehameha I, a testament to Hawaiian history and the unifier of the islands.
"An impressive statue with a fascinating history, worth the scenic drive to Kapaau."
Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this historic site without any entry fees. Free street parking is available nearby. :moneybag:
Explore Kapaau Town
Don't miss the chance to wander through the historic town and visit local shops and eateries. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
King Kamehameha I Statue
Kapaau, North Kohala
An impressive bronze monument honoring the great unifier of the Hawaiian Islands.
Historic Kapaau Town
Kapaau, North Kohala
Explore charming shops and a small restaurant near the statue for a taste of local life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this historic site without any entry fees. Free street parking is available nearby. :moneybag:
Explore Kapaau Town
Don't miss the chance to wander through the historic town and visit local shops and eateries. :shopping_bags:
A Warrior's Legacy
Learn about King Kamehameha's vision for a united Hawaii. :scroll:
Unique History
Discover the fascinating story of the statue's journey from Italy. :ship:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this historic site without any entry fees. Free street parking is available nearby. :moneybag:
Explore Kapaau Town
Don't miss the chance to wander through the historic town and visit local shops and eateries. :shopping_bags:
A Warrior's Legacy
Learn about King Kamehameha's vision for a united Hawaii. :scroll:
Unique History
Discover the fascinating story of the statue's journey from Italy. :ship:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the King Kamehameha I Statue in Kapaau to be an impressive and historically significant monument. Many appreciate the free admission and easy parking, as well as the opportunity to explore the charming, historic town of Kapaau. While smaller than other statues of the king, its unique story and peaceful setting are highly valued.
"After a scenic drive in the Kohala mountains, this historic statue is outdoors in the North Kohala Civic Center. It is smaller than the statues in Honolulu and Hilo."
Mark Tashima
"Impressive statue of King Kamehameha in Kapaau Hawaii. There is no admission fee , and there is free parking in front of the Old Kohala Courthouse ( the statue is on the lawn just in front of the courthouse). There is also a small restaurant and shops across the street ."
Richard Vielhaber
"Quite an impressive statue of King Kamehamea I. The historic town of Kapaau is worth a visit too. There is plenty of street parking available."
Walter R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
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.
📸 📸 Photography
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.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a stroll through the historic Kapaau town, where kids might enjoy looking at the local shops. It's a chance to talk about Hawaiian heroes and the importance of unity in a relaxed setting. The relatively small size of the statue and the area means it's not an overwhelming experience for younger children.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
This statue is a perfect stop on a North Kohala loop, often combined with visits to Pololu Valley lookout or the charming towns of Hawi and Kapaau. The easy access and free parking make it a convenient place to stretch your legs, take photos, and learn a bit about Hawaiian history before continuing your scenic adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of the Kapaau Statue
This statue is actually the original King Kamehameha statue, and it's smaller than the more widely recognized ones found in Honolulu and Hilo. Its placement in Kapaau is significant, as it's believed to be near where Kamehameha I spent his final years. The statue stands as a powerful symbol of his legacy and the unification of the Hawaiian Islands, a feat that shaped the archipelago's future.
Visiting the Kapaau statue offers a more intimate connection to this piece of history. Unlike the bustling crowds at other monuments, the Kapaau location provides a serene setting to appreciate the artistry and historical weight of the sculpture. It’s a chance to reflect on the warrior king’s impact and the enduring spirit of Hawaiian culture.
King Kamehameha I: The Unifier
His reign was marked not only by conquest but also by efforts to establish a stable government and foster peace and prosperity among his people. He implemented laws, encouraged trade, and navigated the increasing presence of foreign visitors. Kamehameha's vision extended beyond mere conquest; he aimed to create a lasting nation.
The legacy of King Kamehameha I is celebrated annually on King Kamehameha Day, a state holiday observed on June 11th. This day features ceremonies, parades, and lei draping events across the islands, honoring his contributions and the enduring spirit of Hawaiian sovereignty. The statues erected in his honor serve as constant reminders of his impact on the archipelago.
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