Historical Places to Visit in Hawaii
The first Polynesian settlers arrived in Hawaii around the fourth and fifth centuries AD, according to the book "Hawaii, the Big Island Revealed," by Andrew Doughty. The six major islands of the Hawaiian Archipelago are rich with historical and cultural attractions.
Statues of the King
In Kapa'au on the Big Island of Hawaii, you can visit the statue of King Kamehameha the Great. An even more famous statue of the Polynesian king stands in front of the Judiciary building in Honolulu, on the island of O'ahu.
Hulihe'e Palace
You can see Hulihe'e Palace near the pier on Kamakahonu Beach in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. The palace, which served as a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty until 1914, was built by Governor Kuakini in 1838.
O'ahu Historic Sites
On the island of O'ahu, you can see the Aloha Tower in Honolulu which was built in 1926. Another historic landmark, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel which opened in 1927, is located in Waikiki.
Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is considered one of the world's best museums of Polynesian culture. The museum, opened in 1902, is located in downtown Honolulu near the Honolulu International Airport.
Maui Historic Sites
On the island of Maui, the Old Lahaina Courthouse, built in 1859, now serves as a visitor's center and art society. Hale Pa'ahao, an old jail built by convicts in the 1850s is another historic Maui landmark. It is also located in Lahaina.
Kealakelua Bay Historic Points of Interest
At Nao'opo'o Beach Park on Kealakelua Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii you can see Hikiau Heiau, a temple where human sacrifices were once made. Across the bay stands the Captain Cook Monument, built in 1874. Also nearby is The Place of Refuge which features the Great Wall built in the 1500s.
Tags: Island Hawaii, Bishop Museum, Historic Sites, Historic Sites island, Historical Places