The King Kamehameha Statue is the most famous statue of a king in Hawaii.
It’s a monument to the great man who unified the Hawaiian islands and became the first king of the Kingdom of Hawaii.
It boasts enduring popularity as a tourist spot that almost everyone visits at least once!
While there is only one statue on Oahu, there are four in total across the United States, making King Kamehameha famous everywhere.
Many people may know of him as the namesake for the “Kamehameha Wave” attack in the popular Dragon Ball series!
The History of King Kamehameha and the Kingdom of Hawaii
King Kamehameha was born in 1758 in the northwestern part of the Big Island of Hawaii.
It is said that he received elite training as a warrior from a young age, allowing his talent for battle to flourish.
After the death of the Big Island’s chief at the time, he defeated the chief’s eldest son, Kiwalao, and began his quest to unify Hawaii.
He first conquered the Big Island, then Maui, and finally Oahu!
In 1795, he conquered the Oahuan army at the Battle of Nuuanu Pali, and by 1810, Kauai had also submitted to his rule, thus completing the unification of all the Hawaiian Islands.
To honor these achievements, statues were erected in various locations.
However, despite his popularity, his name “Ka Mehameha” actually means “the lonely one” in Hawaiian.
Perhaps King Kamehameha was a lonely man during his lifetime.
There Are Four King Kamehameha Statues in Total
Most people probably picture the King Kamehameha statue on Oahu.
But since he was originally a king from the Big Island, there are actually four statues in total: two on the Big Island, and one in Washington D.C., the U.S. capital!
If you have the chance, try to visit all the King Kamehameha statues!
The King Kamehameha Statue on Oahu
The most famous King Kamehameha statue is located in the downtown area of Honolulu.
The spear in his left hand represents “peace,” while his outstretched right hand signifies “the prosperity of Hawaii.”
Interestingly, the model for the statue was not the king himself, but supposedly the most handsome man in the royal court.
It’s located across the street from Iolani Palace, the only official royal palace in the United States. It might be a good idea to visit the King Kamehameha statue after immersing yourself in Hawaiian history and culture at the palace.
The King Kamehameha Statue in Kapaau, Big Island
This King Kamehameha statue is located in Kapaau on the Big Island, the birthplace of the king.
This is the original statue.
It was crafted in Florence, Italy, and has a past of sinking into the sea during its voyage to Hawaii.
However, it was later miraculously discovered, recovered, and installed in its rightful place.
The King Kamehameha Statue in Hilo, Big Island
This King Kamehameha statue stands in Wailoa River State Park, overlooking Hilo Bay on the Big Island.
Standing at 4.2 meters (about 14 feet) tall, it is the largest and newest of the statues.
Hilo was chosen as a fitting location for the statue, being the second-largest city in Hawaii after Honolulu.
The King Kamehameha Statue in Washington, D.C.
Finally, leaving Hawaii, this statue is located in the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C.
This statue was created to commemorate Hawaii’s statehood in 1959.
By the way, June 11th is celebrated annually as Kamehameha Day, and on this day, the statues of King Kamehameha are adorned with many leis.
It’s the most spectacular event of the year, attracting large crowds and media attention!
If you plan to visit on this day, you’ll be able to see all the statues magnificently draped in leis.
Basic Information about the Honolulu Statue
| Name | King Kamehameha Statue |
| Address | 447 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813 |
| Map | |
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Closed | None |
| Time required | Approx. 15 minutes |
| Restrooms | None |
| Parking | Available (paid) |
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