Hawaiian Culture

King Kamehameha Statue

Hilo was King Kamehameha’s first capital after unifying the Hawaiian Islands, where he built a fleet of 800 war canoes to transport 8,000 warriors. In 1963, the Princeville Corporation commissioned a 14-foot statue of Kamehameha, later gifted to Hawai‘i Island and dedicated in Hilo in June 1997, where it stands today.

Imua Mea ʻAi

“Imua” translates to underground oven and “Mea ʻAi” to food in the Hawaiian language. The experience is an authentic, hands-on adventure. It honors the land and celebrates Hawaiian traditions. Sometimes it takes immersing yourself in a cultural activity to really connect to the place and its people.

Naha & Piano Stones

The Naha Stone was brought to Hilo in the 12th century by Chief Makali‘inuikuakawaiea from the Wailua River on Kaua‘i. Used to validate the Naha Clan’s chiefly bloodline, it is considered sacred and can only be touched or moved by clan members.

Pele

Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess, creates and destroys land through volcanic eruptions. She is said to reside in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater at Kīlauea’s summit. Revered as family by many Hawaiians, visitors to Kīlauea traditionally seek her permission to visit respectfully and safely.