Hulihe‘e Palace — Attraction in Hawaii

We did a self guided tour. Upon entry we were given a brief guide by a docent and a handout explaining the various rooms. The first room was the 'pre-contact' room. I was very interested in this but as I viewed the various artifacts I was very disappointed that the majority of them were not labeled as to what they were or what function they performed for the Hawaiians. It was the same in other rooms as well. I am one who wants to know. For example there was an ornamental necklace in what looked like yellow bird feathers. Which bird I wondered...What did the bird look like? How many birds did take to make a necklace? Also, a word was mention several times on the placards and on the handout: 'Kapa' and there was some building for beating Kapa. Was Kapa a bad person who needed punishment? No. It was a material for making, I think either cloth or parchment. What plant did it come from? (the inner bark of the mulbery tree) which were mysteries that I had to Google. It wasn't all bad. I didn't know that a Hawaiian King did an around the world tour in the late 1800s. All in all, for the price/time, it wasn't worth it. If you miss it, your life will not be any...

What a refreshing change of pace from all the retail and food choices here on Alii Drive.

So worth your time to stop in here and witness first hand the history, koa furniture, architecture, interior design, artifacts, historical photography, and pics of Royalty, (ask about Princess Ruth) throughout both floors of this well kept Palace. But first, you'll need to head towards the ocean and stroll around to the back, through the wonderfully manicured grounds to enter. The sounds, fragrance, and rhythms of the water, immediately relax you for your journey back in time.

The best part...

You are asked to take your shoes off and wander about barefoot, yes barefoot! If that doesn't sound appropriate for you, they will provide you with slippers for over your shoes. We absolutely chose barefoot 🤙 The flooring is immaculate and made with local materials, so the feel is incredible.

The "Daughters of Hawaii" currently run the Museum and offer tours if you like. Small donation fee at the back door, and it's definitely worth...

What an incredible place to visit... walking in this building (no shoes allowed) was like walking through a time warp into the past. I learned of the history of the royalty of past Hawaiian culture and the many women that organized the group called the "Daighters of Hawaii" who organized years ago I attempt to salvage this palace and open it up as a museum to preserve a vital piece of history. The building is small, two stories several rooms, however made me imagine the enormous feel it must have had as natives where living in huts still.

It was incredible to see ancient tools and jewelry worn and used by past native Hawaiian royalty along with grasping a clear picture to cultural superstitions of shadows befalling people and executions (I wont go in depth as that would spoil this adventure). The host is extremely educated and was very kind and attentive to all my questions. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Oh, No pictures allowed inside... bummer but the experience will create...