There are two parts to this museum. Every aspect of the island's history, starting at its formation and winding up at present, is covered in the permanent exhibit in the Rice Building. Historic displays include ancient artifacts, scientific diagrams, and turn-of-the-century photographs. The Wilcox Building houses the Mezzanine Gallery, which features an ever-changing display of works by professional and amateur local artists, as well as other exhibits and the gift shop. The museum-sponsored events are geared toward the local community and tourists.
If you want to get an idea of what the island looked like when sugar cane was the main industry, visit this restored historic property. Its many exhibits and displays give hints of what life was like on the sugar plantations of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tour the grounds, which at one point spanned 80 acres, or read up on literature. This is, understandably, a very popular destination for people on school field trips, cultural seminars and other educational excursions. Call in advance and reserve a time to tour the grounds.
Old Koloa Town, a historic town which is usually visited by locals as well as the tourists wanting to shop, eat or just have a tour of the island’s historical buildings. However, it is the Historic Center where one gain some knowledge about the town through the artifacts and the photographic displays. Patrons can also buy some local fresh fruits and vegetables here or can also shop for souvenirs and other local products. You can also spend your time indulging yourself in some authentic flavors at the various restaurants here. One of the most happening areas on the island, Old Koloa Town is a must visit during your time in Kauai.
Iraivan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the Kauai Island, Hawaii. Maintained by Kauai’s Hindu monastery, this impressive structure is said to be the first all-stone, white granite structure built in the Western Hemisphere. A magnificent six-sided, single pointed uncut quarts crystal, believed as one of the largest one ever found of its kind forms the centerpiece of this beautiful place. Located near the Wailua River, it is among the must-visit places in Hawaii.
A complex of enduring structures, Waioli Mission District offers a glimpse at Hanalei's history and heritage. Along with the Mission House itself, it features the rebuilt Waioli Hui‘ia Church and Mission Hall. Dating from the 19th Century, the mission house today serves as a local history museum which provides an insight into the lives of the Wilcox Family. Though the house has been reconstructed, the décor, furnishings, and artifacts remain virtually the same. If you're someone who enjoys reliving the past, the minimal donation fee that you pay for the tour is well worth the experience that you get after spending some time here.
Steeped in history, Waiʻoli Huiʻia Church features a striking visage, its gabled roof and adjoining tower creating a harmonious blend of religious splendor and architectural wonder. Bearing allusions to the American Gothic style, its exterior evokes a sense of veneration, a feeling only strengthened upon stepping past the threshold and marveling at the simple yet noteworthy interior. The revered landmark, in its present form, dates from 1912, its construction attributed to the Wilcox brothers who commissioned a church building on the grounds of the Waioli Mission District. Owing to its history and significance in terms of the Mission's past, the church is regarded as a prominent destination in Hanalei.
Come and support the Hanalei area community at the Hanalei Family Community Center. Catch live acts, concerts, film screenings and more, and check out the local talent. The center also has a computer lab and holds PC classes for the computer illiterate. Other workshops include yoga, the hula and other varied topics. Since this is a non-profit establishment try and loosen your purse strings a bit and leave a small donation.
Art House Hawaii is a famous art studio and gallery which showcases the contemporary creations that were conceptualized and made by Julie Berg, the gallery's owner. She is known for her oil paintings, using an array of textures to convey the mood and the message of her paintings. In addition to her work the gallery also exhibits the works of other local artists like Joe Kattan, Camille Paige, and Kim Bass. The gallery also operates as a jamming space wherein local musicians jam, adding an extra dimension to this artsy place.
One of the more noticeable structures along the coconut coast, this art gallery is housed in a brightly painted wooden structure across the street from area shopping centers. The building and the reputation of the occupant it has gained a lot of attention from the likes of TV and media broadcasts. The shop is a hybrid of original art and surfboard shaping that includes a large dose of personal philosophy and surfing insight. Do not be surprised if an impromptu surf session will result in the shop being closed for the day. - Lottie Tagupa
Kauai Veterans Center is a center that pays tribute to all Veterans and honors their valor. It also ensures that families of these veterans are taken care of. Home to the Kauai Veterans Museum and Office of Veterans Services, it is a place where military soldiers, veterans and their families can get together. The on-site Kauai Veterans Museum provides an insight into the military service of Kauai and its affiliated units. Apart from that, the center also features conference rooms that can be hired for private events. The facilities on offer include parking spaces, internet access and a fully-equipped kitchen. For complete details, check website.
Established in 1862 at the request of King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma, the church is the first Anglican Church on the island. Located in the heart of Lihue, this church has a large and loyal congregation that supports the church's many community projects on the island. Aside from religious events, the church also readily supports music, especially the series of Jazz performances held annually. There are also hula classes, drumming lessons and other events scheduled regularly throughout the year. - Lottie Tagupa
Centrally located near the island’s only Costco and across the street from Kukui Grove Shopping Center, this rum distillery is one of the newest additions to the historic Kilohana Plantation. In addition to the distillery, the plantation offers train rides, a restaurant, a gallery, evening entertainment and more, while the rum store offers regular tastings and even a still for visitors to view the distilling process in action. Koloa Rum Distillery produces everything from gold, dark, white and spiced rums to wonderful Mai Tai mixes and rum cakes. It’s the perfect spot to entertain adults while the kids venture off on the plantation train ride. Lottie Tagupa