Update: Hulihee Palace suffered considerable damage in the 2006 Earthquake centered off the Big Island. Tours of the palace are offered on a limited basis due to this damage and reconstruction work may be underway in the near future.

This modest palace was constructed in 1838 by Governor John Adams Kuakini (cousin of King Kamehameha), the second Governor of the Island of Hawai (the Big Island) . Built by foreign seaman of lava rock, the simple two-story palace has gorgeous koa and ohia timbers.

The wood from these native trees is among the most prized in the islands. The palace was originally paneled with koa and had a modest six rooms. The building is roughly 60 feet long by 30 feet wide with walls that measure an astounding 3 feet in thickness. initially, the palace served as the primary residence of Kuakini. After his death in 1844, the palace, situated right on the water, became a favorite vacation spot for the royal families of Hawaii. In 1883, title to the palace passed to the Merrie Monarch, King David Kalakaua. The monarch extensively remodeled the palace, widening lanais, putting a stucco coating on the exterior and plastering the interior. In 1914 the palace was sold and its contents put up for auction, a historical tragedy. Fortunately, the palace was purchased in 1925 by the Territory of Hawaii to be run as a museum. The Daughters of Hawaii were to be the operators of the museum and they continue to discharge this duty through the present time, stewarding the museum and its treasure trove of royal artifacts, artwork and furnishings - most of which were first places in the palace during the Hawaiian Monarchy. Hulihe'e Palace made the National Register of Historic Sites in 1973. The palace hosts monthly concerts on its great lawn. Each concert is dedicated to the music or memory of a member of the Hawaiian Royalty from bygone years. These concerts, which overlook the blue waters of the Kailua-Kona Coast, are among the most enjoyable in the islands by virtue of the beautiful setting and the exquisite music. Concerts are free and open to the public and start at 4 p.m.

Hulihee Palace / 75-5718 Ali`i Drive / Map
808) 329-1877
Hours: 9-4 (M-S), 10-4 (Su)

Image via Daughters of Hawaii

—Alex, 07/10/07