Kamehameha Statue

The Kamehameha Statue is a bronze figure depicting the king in traditional Hawaiian dress holding a spear, positioned in front of Aliiolani Hale in downtown Honolulu. The monument stands as a focal point of this historic area, drawing attention with its formal presence on King Street.

The statue was created in 1883 by sculptor Thomas Ridgeway Gould, following the loss of the original casting at sea near the Falkland Islands during shipment. This recovered version was then placed in downtown Honolulu as an important memorial to the Hawaiian ruler.

The statue receives fresh flower leis during annual celebrations on King Kamehameha Day, June 11, reflecting how local people honor their historical leaders through this colorful ritual. You can see the monument completely draped in flowers on this day, a visible expression of community respect.

The monument sits on King Street in downtown Honolulu and is accessible year-round without any admission fee or advance booking needed. The location is easy to reach on foot and tends to be busier during local holidays and celebrations.

Four identical versions of this sculpture exist in different locations, including one in Washington D.C., extending the king's representation far beyond Hawaii. The original recovered casting now stands in Kapaau, marking the birthplace region of this Hawaiian monarch.