The original King Kamehameha statue stands proudly in tiny Kapa'au on the Big Island's North Kohala Coast — not the replica most people know from Honolulu. This bronze beauty has quite the story: it was lost at sea, recovered from the ocean floor, and installed here in the king's birthplace where it belongs. You'll find it draped in leis year-round, but come June 11 for Kamehameha Day when it's so buried in flowers you can barely see the bronze underneath. The statue sits right on Akoni Pule Highway across from some sweet local shops and galleries, plus King's View Cafe if you need a bite. It's the perfect pit stop on your way to Pololu Valley Lookout — one of the most dramatic views on the entire Big Island.
💡 Insider Tip
Park across the street and use the crosswalk to reach the statue safely. The gallery and artisan shops across the road are actually worth browsing, and if you're hungry, King's View Cafe serves fresh local fish.
Always visible
Free
Free street parking
Morning light for best photos, June for Lei Day
