Kapaau

Travel Guide
Kapaau showing general coastal views
Stay in this historic village to be close to some of Big Island’s most scenic countryside and enjoy rich local customs that celebrate King Kamehameha I.

Kapa'au is a sleepy little village perfectly located to be a base for exploring the Big Island’s rugged coastal area. Stay in Kapa'au for easy access to great hiking trails through gorgeous scenery. Come at the right time of year to enjoy colorful customs specific to the town.

Certain Kapa'au traditions are bound up with the King Kamehameha I Statue. Kamehameha I was the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands. The statue was made in Europe in the late 19th century, shipped to Hawai'i, and lost at sea when the ship carrying it sank. The statue was later found in the Falklands, but in the meantime, a replacement had been commissioned. The original eventually made its way home to Kapa'au and the replacement now stands in Honolulu.

Visit Kapa'au on June 11 to enjoy the festivities held to commemorate the king. Watch all kinds of events, including a parade and outdoor games. The climax is a ceremonial draping of leis around the King Kamehameha I statue.

Make sure you take advantage of the major outdoor attractions nearby, such as Keokea Beach Park. This well-loved picnic spot is sheltered by imposing boulders and rugged cliffs. Head to Pololū Valley Overlook. Walk this stunning part of the coast for some of the best views anywhere on the island, as the waves crash onto the rocks below you.

Learn about local animals at Hawai'i Wildlife Center, a rescue and rehabilitation project. Plan your visit to coincide with one of the educational sessions or come at any time to look at the animals and read about the work done here.

From Kona International Airport, rent a car and get to Kapa'au in just over an hour. Because it’s a quiet place situated all the way up in the northernmost part of the island, having your own transportation is essential for exploring the magnificent landscapes all around.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikoloa
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikoloa
4 out of 5
69-699 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa, HI
The price is €323 per night from 18 Apr to 19 Apr
€323
per night
18 Apr - 19 Apr
Stay at this 4-star golf hotel in Waikoloa. Enjoy free parking, 2 outdoor pools, and 2 spa tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,006 reviews)
"Beautiful setting in a nice location and grounds that are kept immaculate. The rooms are outstanding, with a nice master bedroom and a huge bathroom. Liked the shared barbecue area at each building. The pools were amazing with great options for families with kids and an adults only area. Only negatives ..."

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikoloa
Hawaii Island Retreat
Hawaii Island Retreat
4 out of 5
250, Lokahi Road, Kapaau, HI
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Kapaau. Enjoy free parking, a full-service spa, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Kamehameha Park and Kenjis House ...
7.8/10 Good! (14 reviews)
"This property or should I say land was way more then expected. It’s private, secluded and overall just beautiful. if your looking for a real taste, feel, site, peace and privacy of the island with immaculate views this is the ying to your yang. This is a real retreat with real beautiful souls from ..."

Reviewed on 21 Jul 2021

Hawaii Island Retreat
Hilton Waikoloa Village
Hilton Waikoloa Village
4 out of 5
69-425 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa, HI
The price is €334 per night from 18 Apr to 19 Apr
€334
per night
18 Apr - 19 Apr
Stay at this beach resort in Waikoloa. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 outdoor pools, and 6 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,010 reviews)
"We loved this place, there's plenty of activities for families. Watched sunset right in our balcony amazing!!"

Reviewed on 22 Mar 2024

Hilton Waikoloa Village
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
CASTLE Hali'i Kai at Waikoloa
CASTLE Hali'i Kai at Waikoloa
4 out of 5
69-1029 Nawahine Pl, Waikoloa, HI
Stay at this 4-star golf aparthotel in Waikoloa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a children's pool. Popular attractions Mauna Lani Resort Golf Course and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (616 reviews)
"Such a beautiful place and the location was perfect!"

Reviewed on 27 Feb 2024

CASTLE Hali'i Kai at Waikoloa
Mauna Lani Point
Mauna Lani Point
4 out of 5
68-1050 Mauna Lani Point Dr., Kamuela, HI
Stay at this 4-star beach condo in Kamuela. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a golf course. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (260 reviews)
Fantastic Is All I Can Say
"Amazing property with incredible views. The unit was clean, comfortable and in a great location. The ocean view and nightly sunsets were awesome!"

Reviewed on 7 Dec 2023

Mauna Lani Point
Fairway Villas Waikoloa by OUTRIGGER
Fairway Villas Waikoloa by OUTRIGGER
3 out of 5
69-200 Pohakulana, Waikoloa, HI
Stay at this 3-star golf condo in Waikoloa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Genesis Gallery and Kings Shops are located ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (451 reviews)
"A lovely place."

Reviewed on 3 Feb 2024

Fairway Villas Waikoloa by OUTRIGGER
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do