Ke‘anae Congregational Church
A historic 1800s stone church on Maui's Hana side, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian history and a warm community welcome.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience a service
Ke‘anae Congregational Church
Best Time
Experience a service
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1800s stone church on Maui's Hana side, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian history and a warm community welcome.
"So beautiful and historic. Do not miss this church when you are in Hana."
Dress Modestly
As an active church, please wear respectful attire.
Check Visiting Hours
The church may be closed to visitors during services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Stone Architecture
Admire the enduring 1800s stone structure, a testament to its long history and constant use.
Active Place of Worship
Experience a living piece of history by attending a service, often with parts in Hawaiian.
Community Welcome
Visitors are often warmly welcomed and invited to join post-service gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
As an active church, please wear respectful attire.
Check Visiting Hours
The church may be closed to visitors during services.
Embrace the Hawaiian
Parts of the service may be in Hawaiian; enjoy the unique cultural experience.
Be Prepared to Share
Visitors are often invited to introduce themselves during services.
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
As an active church, please wear respectful attire.
Check Visiting Hours
The church may be closed to visitors during services.
Embrace the Hawaiian
Parts of the service may be in Hawaiian; enjoy the unique cultural experience.
Be Prepared to Share
Visitors are often invited to introduce themselves during services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ke'anae Congregational Church for its profound historical significance and beautiful stone architecture. Many highlight the warm welcome received from the congregation, often finding themselves invited to join post-service gatherings. While some note it can be closed to the public during services, the overall experience is described as deeply moving and culturally enriching.
"Founded in 1838 it is on of the oldest churches that is still standing on the Hana side of the Island of Maui."
Kaeo C
"So beautiful and historic. Do not miss this church when you are in Hana."
Jenny J
"In March 2017, we worshipped at Wananalua Congregational Church in Hana. A fair amount of the service was in Hawaiian, so I had to (poorly) hum the tune since I could not read/pronounce the words quickly enough to keep up with the songs. It was a small congregation, and 25-30% of attendees were visitors, but everyone was really friendly, and everyone was invited to a coffee social immediately after the service. There were several things that stood out to me.
1. Visitors were greeted at the beginning of the service, and we were asked to stand and introduce ourselves. I wasn’t quite prepared for that, but we both stood and Scott graciously and smoothly introduced us as visitors on vacation from Alaska.
2. During the children’s portion of the service, the congregation has a song that they sing as the children are gathering…. I thought it was a lovely way to welcome children to worship and it reminds them how very important and precious they are to the congregation (and God).
3. Worship closed with a song, then everyone forms a big circle holding hands (around the pews) for a final blessing. I liked this- it was a way to remind me that we were worshipping in community with others. Honestly, it was the first time I had actually taken the time to look at those around me since I had been wholly focused on my own worship experience.
Overall, it was a great congregation and we would attend church there again if/when we visit Hana in the future."
Sheli Dodson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Ke'anae on the Hana Highway (Route 360) on Maui's eastern coast. It's a scenic drive, so allow ample time. Parking is available nearby.
Public transport options are very limited in this remote area of Maui. Renting a car is the most practical way to reach the church.
The drive along Hana Highway is famous for its winding roads, lush rainforests, and numerous scenic stops. Be prepared for a slow and beautiful journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for general visits. However, it is an active place of worship, so be mindful of services.
Visiting hours can vary as it's a functioning church. It's best to check locally or be aware it might be closed to the public during services.
Yes, visitors are welcome to attend services. Be prepared for a unique experience, as parts of the service may be conducted in Hawaiian.
There is no admission fee. Donations are always appreciated to help maintain this historic site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
As it's an active place of worship, modest attire is recommended. Avoid beachwear.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Ask permission if unsure.
Founded in 1838, it's one of Maui's oldest continuously used churches, representing a significant part of Hawaiian history and missionary influence.
Facilities are generally basic, reflecting its historical nature. Restrooms might be available, but don't expect extensive amenities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are scarce in Ke'anae itself. You'll find more choices further along the Hana Highway in Hana town or at various roadside stands.
Sometimes, congregations host coffee socials after services where visitors are welcome to join.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior stone architecture and the surrounding coastal landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Be respectful and discreet. It's best to avoid flash photography and ask for permission if you wish to take photos during a service.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending a service if your children are comfortable with quiet environments. The song for children during the service is a lovely touch that highlights their importance to the community. Be sure to explain the significance of the church and the importance of respectful behavior beforehand.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
The communal closing ritual, where attendees hold hands for a blessing, is a powerful symbol of unity and shared faith. It's a moment that resonates deeply and offers a profound sense of connection. This church offers a chance to experience faith in a setting rich with history and cultural significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History
For visitors, the church is more than just a historical monument; it's a living place of worship. Attending a service provides a unique cultural immersion, often featuring hymns and prayers in the Hawaiian language. This experience can be deeply moving and offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the Ke'anae community. Remember to dress respectfully and be mindful of the sacred nature of the space.
Community is a strong theme here. Visitors often report being warmly welcomed, with some even being invited to introduce themselves during services and join post-service coffee socials. This community spirit makes the visit feel personal and memorable, transforming a sightseeing stop into a genuine cultural exchange.
Experiencing a Service
The congregation is known for its warm hospitality towards visitors. You might be greeted at the beginning of the service and invited to stand and introduce yourselves, a gesture that makes everyone feel included. This welcoming atmosphere extends to post-service gatherings, where attendees are often invited for coffee and fellowship. It's a chance to connect with locals and learn more about the community.
A particularly touching tradition mentioned is the formation of a circle holding hands for a final blessing. This act symbolizes community and shared faith, offering a moment of connection with those around you. It's a beautiful way to conclude a service and reinforces the sense of togetherness.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit