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KONA COAST. With an exterior constructed almost entirely of lava rock and coral mortar, Hulihe'e Palace is one of the Big Island's more unique structures – and one of only three royal residences on US soil. Built entirely of local materials – the architect used koa wood to give the place its distinctive New England charm – the home serves as a reminder of somewhat recent Hawaiian history. Most of the royal family's personal effects are still displayed, including the original hand-carved koa furniture and 19th-century oddities. Although no longer occupied, the home still serves as the setting for special events, including 12 annual hula concerts that commemorate members of the royal family.
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Mo'okini Heiau
Hwy 270, near Upolu Airport, Hawi, HI 96720 · 808-974-6200
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HAWI. This three-story stone temple, erected more than 1500 years ago, stands as one of the oldest structures in the state. Built to honor Ku (the Hawaiian god of war), it was the setting for countless rituals and observances, including human sacrifices and prayer vigils. As expected, the temple is steeped in legend, and many of them feature Kamehameha I, who was born near this site in the 1750s and who sought spiritual guidance here before setting out on his quest to unite the islands. The road to the temple is rough, so hiking from Highway 270 or riding in a 4X4 is suggested. The temple is now part of the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument.
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Parker Ranch
67-1435 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamuela, HI 96743-8433 · 808-885-7655
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KAMUELA. Parker Ranch, one of America's oldest and largest ranches, was founded in 1847 and spans some 150,000 acres. Visitors to the island eagerly venture here to interact with Hawaiian cowboys (called "paniolos") and to experience life on a ranch in paradise. A museum in the visitor center chronicles the ranch's history, the days of John Parker's original herds, and the evolution of the paniolo. Guests may opt to tour two of Parker's historic homes, take a 45-minute horse-drawn wagon tour of the grounds, or enjoy horseback or ATV tours.
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SOUTH KONA COAST. In times of yore, those in trouble – women, thieves, and escaped prisoners trying to evade capture – could find safe haven within the walls of this sacred burial ground, wherein lie the remains of Keawe, forefather of the legendary King Kamehameha I. Furthermore, priests who maintained the grounds would absolve offenders of any wrongdoing, allowing them to leave free of reprisal. Today, the pu`uhonua and some 180 acres of royal koi ponds, temple bases, and village sites surrounding it are protected by the National Park Service.
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KAWAIHAE. Constructed in the late 18th century, this coastal temple was intended as an offering to the war god Kukai'ilimoku from King Kamehameha the Great. The entire island community took part in the building process, as recorded by British sailor John Young. Kamehameha subsequently established a monarchy that lasted 83 years and that united the Hawaiian Islands. Now a National Historic Site, the park invites visitors to tour the temple and enjoy fishing, hiking, water sports, and wildlife viewing.
Ready to look into the past and learn about the heritage of this fascinating city? We list historic homes, plantations, battlegrounds, and churches that are rich in history and provide for an educational travel diversion.
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