Why You Need to Visit Kaahumanu Church

Have you ever been to a church service while on vacation? For many, regular attendance is a large part of faith practice, even when away from home. It’s also a great way to learn new traditions and can make you feel like you’re part of a larger family. If you’re planning a trip to Maui, Hawaii, consider visiting one of the most the most historic sites on the island: Kaahumanu Church. Here’s why a trip to this local gem should be on your vacation itinerary.

Make your trip to Kaahumanu Church even more unforgettable with the help of our free vacation guide. We know that planning all your endeavors can be challenging, so we’ve created a free guide to save you from hours of research. Browse our list of top restaurants, historic sites, indoor/outdoor attractions, and more. The options are endless!

How to Experience Kaahumanu Church

Learn the History

Kaahumanu Church was built in 1876 by Edward Bailey and named after Queen Ka’ahumanu. She had witnessed services being presided by Jonathan Smith Green, a missionary from New England, and asked the Congregationalist mission to name a permanent church structure after her.

Upon arrival to the islands, American Missionaries usually held religious services out in the open. This was later superseded by the building of thatched grassed hales, and later, lumber-built structures. Kaahumanu Church was rebuilt four times to accommodate the swell in congregation members. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, and today, the church offers Sunday services invoked in the Hawaiian language.

Explore the Mauka Graveyard

Visitors to the church’s graveyard are often surprised to see that it only has one headstone. This represents the final resting place of Mrs. Adelucia Lee Conde, the wife of Rev. Daniel Joll Conde. He served the church from 1848 to 1856. There’s also a large Hawaiian burial site in this area; it’s unmarked and looks like a pile of stones.

Did you know? Local legend has it that John Honoli’i and Thomas Hopu are buried somewhere on the property. John and Thomas were two of the four Hawaiians who brought the first company of missionaries to Hawaii from Boston. Be sure to ask about them when you visit the church!

Attend a Service

Kaahumanu Church offers Sunday worship services at 9 a.m. Each features a unique blend of Hawaiian and English, from mele (music) to pule (prayers). Communion is offered on the first Sunday of the month. For more information on upcoming services and programs, check the church’s calendar of events.

Take a Tour

If you can’t make it to a service, be sure to stop by for a guided tour. You’ll learn all about the history of the church and may even hear stories about those buried in the cemetery. Call Kahu Wayne at (808) 446-4649 for reservations.

Check Out Other Churches Nearby

Maui is a beautiful, welcoming, and sacred island. It’s one of the best places in the world to attend a worship service! Freel free to check out a few other churches while you’re here. Some of our favorites include:

• Wailuku Union Church
• Good Shepherd Episcopal Church
• St. Anthony Catholic Community
• Iao United Church of Christ
• Wailuku Hongwanji Temple

Book Your Stay at The Historic Wailuku Inn

There’s nothing better than coming back to our inn after a wonderful worship service. Our historic property is just minutes from all of the churches listed above and is situated on a peaceful tree-lined street. Reserve one of our Garden Rooms and meditate on your own private lanai, or experience the cool, gentle breezes that envelop the Veranda Rooms. Each accommodation comes with a delicious homemade breakfast in the morning.

Ready to start planning your dream vacation? Make your reservations and get ready for some fun! We look forward to having you.