A designated National Historic Landmark and listed on the Register of Historic Places, Kawaiaha’o Church is an architectural wonder and one of the oldest Christian churches in Hawaii. The upper gallery has 21 portraits of ali’i (traditional Hawaiian nobility), and King Lunalilo is buried in the courtyard. The church still uses the Native Hawaiian language for parts of its service, one of the few Hawaiian churches to do so.
Walking tours of downtown Hawaii often stop at Kawaiaha’o Church, as well as other historic highlights such as 'Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha statue.
Visitors are welcome to attend services; there is no need to book ahead.
If not attending a service, you can explore the grounds and church exterior.
To access the missionary graveyard while services are taking place, use a side door.
Kawaiaha’o Church is located in downtown Honolulu, within a short walking distance of ‘Iolani Palace and the Hawaii State Capital. From Waikiki Beach, you can take the number 20 bus to South Street and Kawaiahao Street, then walk 5 minutes to the church. A few parking spots are available on-site, and there is paid parking on the surrounding streets.
The church is only open during services and events, such as Bible readings, though you can see the exterior and grounds anytime. Sunday mass is held on Sunday mornings and is partially conducted in Hawaiian. There are also prayer services on Wednesday evenings; check the website for details about other services and events. The church is especially worth a visit around Christmas, when it is festively decorated.
Kawaiaha’o Church is part of the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives, a collection of historic houses—the Frame House, the Chamberlain House, and the Printing Office—which were built between 1821 and 1841. Guided and self-guided tours introduce visitors to the dramatic changes that the New England Missionaries brought to Hawaii.
