Russian Fort Elizabeth, Military fortress in Waimea, United States
Description
Russian Fort Elizabeth is a stone fortress in Waimea, Kauai, built with an irregular octagonal shape measuring between 300 to 450 feet across. The walls rise about 20 feet above ground and are constructed from solid stone layers.
History
Georg Anton Schäffer founded the fort in 1817 as a Russian-American Company initiative to establish a strategic base along Pacific trade routes. The site was eventually abandoned when Russian interests in the region faded.
Culture
The fortress demonstrates how Russian engineers worked alongside Hawaiian laborers, creating a place where two building traditions merged. You can see this blend in the practical choices made during construction.
Practical
The site is reached through Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park with parking, restrooms, and walking paths that guide you around the perimeter. Morning or late afternoon visits work well, as lighting highlights the stone walls and details more clearly.
Did you know?
The walls are exceptionally thick, between 25 to 45 feet, making this the last surviving Russian fortification in the Hawaiian islands. This unusual remnant reveals how brief yet consequential the Russian presence in Hawaii turned out to be.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Kauai County).
Waimea Canyon State Park
11.6 km
Mount Waialeale
21.6 km
WWVH
11 km
Kawaikini
20.8 km
Spouting Horn
19.1 km
Polihale State Park
18 km
Allerton Garden
19.2 km
Glass Beach
10.2 km
Manawaiopuna Falls
14.9 km
Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve
20.6 km
McBryde Garden
20.9 km
Moir Gardens
22.6 km
Cook Landing Site
174 m
Hanapepe Swinging Bridge
9.1 km
Koke'e State Park
19.9 km
Civilian Conservation Corps Camp in Koke'e State Park
20.2 km
Bishop National Bank of Hawaii
1 km
Camp Sloggett
19.5 km
Gulick-Rowell House
1.3 km
Yamase Building
1.2 km
Glass Beach
10.2 km
Baby Beach
21.4 km
Olu Pua Botanical Garden and Plantation
15.2 km
Hoai Bay / Lawai Beach
20.8 km
Kahana Valley
9.2 km
Kahuama‘a Flat
21.9 km
Pakala Beach
2.2 km
Davidsons Beach
4.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes