Easy Kona: Place of Refuge, Painted Church & City Drive
Easy Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a narrated drive through beautiful Kona. You'll head south passing the area where Hawaiians killed Captain Cook in 1778.
The white sand beaches, lush green foliage and dramatic lava formations captivate visitors lucky enough to travel along the Kona coastline. Located on the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the "Big Island," the Kona coast offers infinite variety, activity and scenic beauty. Home to coffee plantations and macadamia groves, historic Kona is a thriving community with natural splendor and a lively culture. For truly dramatic views, to the southeast lies Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea - one of the most active in the world.
Your guided tour takes you for a visit to Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which translates to "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." This enchanting cultural site is a lovingly restored ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary. Built in 1650, the "Place of Refuge" originally housed the bones of Hawaiian chiefs. It later became a place of sanctuary for outlaws and defeated warriors. Highlights in this national historic park are the great Ki'i figures guarding the temple, the spectacular flora and fauna and the sense of peace and tranquility that echoes through the area.
Continue your drive towards Keokea, where you'll come upon the serene St. Benedict's Painted Church. Step inside to see the colorful interior of this historic church, decorated with dramatic murals painted by Father John Berchmans Velghe, a Belgian priest. Without any artistic training, the priest beautified the church with paintings that he drew to help teach the Hawaiians to read. This lovely church has a latticework entry and is noted for its charming bell tower.
Afterwards, enjoy a short visit to Ali'i Gardens on the Kona coast where you will find local artisans, handcrafted goods, and the authentic spirit of Hawaii all in one place. Experience the heart of the local community as vendors share their passion, crafts, and story before returning to the pier with a deeper appreciation of this magical island.
Points of interest
Place of Refuge
St. Benedict's Painted Church
Schedule
Special Notes
The Painted Church may be closed to visitors on weekends and Mondays due to worship services. If unavailable, additional time will be spent at other tour venues. Please note that Ali'i Gardens Marketplace is closed on Mondays, and time normally allocated for this visit will be added to other tour stops.
Exceptional Value
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Easy Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a narrated drive through beautiful Kona. You'll head south passing the area where Hawaiians killed Captain Cook in 1778.
The white sand beaches, lush green foliage and dramatic lava formations captivate visitors lucky enough to travel along the Kona coastline. Located on the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the "Big Island," the Kona coast offers infinite variety, activity and scenic beauty. Home to coffee plantations and macadamia groves, historic Kona is a thriving community with natural splendor and a lively culture. For truly dramatic views, to the southeast lies Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea - one of the most active in the world.
Your guided tour takes you for a visit to Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which translates to "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." This enchanting cultural site is a lovingly restored ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary. Built in 1650, the "Place of Refuge" originally housed the bones of Hawaiian chiefs. It later became a place of sanctuary for outlaws and defeated warriors. Highlights in this national historic park are the great Ki'i figures guarding the temple, the spectacular flora and fauna and the sense of peace and tranquility that echoes through the area.
Continue your drive towards Keokea, where you'll come upon the serene St. Benedict's Painted Church. Step inside to see the colorful interior of this historic church, decorated with dramatic murals painted by Father John Berchmans Velghe, a Belgian priest. Without any artistic training, the priest beautified the church with paintings that he drew to help teach the Hawaiians to read. This lovely church has a latticework entry and is noted for its charming bell tower.
Afterwards, enjoy a short visit to Ali'i Gardens on the Kona coast where you will find local artisans, handcrafted goods, and the authentic spirit of Hawaii all in one place. Experience the heart of the local community as vendors share their passion, crafts, and story before returning to the pier with a deeper appreciation of this magical island.
Points of interest
Place of Refuge
St. Benedict's Painted Church
Schedule
Special Notes
The Painted Church may be closed to visitors on weekends and Mondays due to worship services. If unavailable, additional time will be spent at other tour venues. Please note that Ali'i Gardens Marketplace is closed on Mondays, and time normally allocated for this visit will be added to other tour stops.