Religious Sights

This ancient heiau is nearly indistinguishable from the other grass huts that were erected nearby for the King Kamehameha Hotel luau grounds. Exuding an aura of mystique and timelessness, it consists of a stone wall, some other stones and a few modest grass buildings. Although no one can enter this Hawaiian holy place, it is possible to go right up to the gates that protect it. Another good viewpoint is from across the Kailua Pier.

Erected in 1820, this was the first Christian church to be established in the Hawaiian Islands. Originally it was a simple thatched building, intended only as an interim place to hold services. The proud building that now stands was built in 1836 out of crushed coral and lava rock. It is in perfect condition and still holds services. Inside the church is a model of the brig Thaddeus, which carried the first missionaries to Kona Town in the early 19th century.