A former hotel, a historic homestead, and the Kamehameha statue offer different perspectives on history in Kapaau. There is also an annual celebration whose program ranges from a sunrise ritual to a floral parade. The history of the buildings, commemorative culture, and event date can each be explored as distinct themes.
Historic Buildings in the Townscape
The former A. Nanbu Hotel is a simplified Italianate-style building dating from around the turn of the century. It is one of the few remaining historic buildings in Kapaau’s commercial district. Holy’s Bakery was founded and built in 1932 as part of the Nanbu Hotel property. The histories of the two buildings can be distinguished chronologically: the hotel dates from around the turn of the century, while the bakery was founded and built in 1932.
The Father Elias Bond District adds further historical layers. It includes a well-preserved homestead founded in 1841 by Boston missionary Reverend Elias Bond. The District also includes a church, whose exterior buildings were completed in 1855, and a school complex founded by Reverend Bond in 1872. The dates mark different stages in the District’s history: the founding of the homestead, the completion of the church exteriors, and the founding of the school complex.
The Kamehameha Statue and Celebration
The original statue of King Kamehameha I stands in front of the North Kohala Civic Center in Kapaau. The original statue was recovered in 1912; the restored statue was later installed near Kamehameha’s birthplace in Kapaau. The Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration takes place every year on June 11 in Kapaau. For future trips, it is a good idea to check the event program, as organizers may change future dates or schedules.
The program includes a sunrise ritual and the placing of lei on the original statue by Native Hawaiian practitioners. The celebration also includes a two-mile floral parade featuring pāʻū princesses on horseback, floats, and marching groups. The statue ritual and the parade are distinct parts of the celebration: a ceremonial opening and a longer procession with various groups.
More Activities and Regional Routes
Kapaau also offers a range of sporting activities. Roots Skate Park is located in Kamehameha Park. North Kohala Golf Park is also in Kapaau and is a nine-hole par-3 course. A skate park within the park and a golf course therefore offer distinct options to consider when planning a trip.
The Kamehameha statue is a worthwhile stop on the route from Hāwī to the Pololū Valley Lookout. To drive to Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, take Highway 270 south from Kapaʻau. The regional context of North Kohala also includes Lapakahi State Historical Park, which preserves the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. These destinations complement Kapaau’s local history with practical route guidance and another historical point of interest.
Discover more destinations: Paauilo, Puako, Mountain View, Kukuihaele, Fern Acres, Kalaoa, Eden Roc, Keaau.
For the broader travel overview: Hawaii.
