Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Honolulu
Historic 1843 coral block cathedral, home to relics of Saints Damien & Marianne Cope, offering a peaceful spiritual haven.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see it before renovations
Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Honolulu
Best Time
To see it before renovations
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1843 coral block cathedral, home to relics of Saints Damien & Marianne Cope, offering a peaceful spiritual haven.
"A beautiful historic church filled with a peaceful, reverent atmosphere and warm hospitality."
🎯 Visit Before Renovations
The cathedral closes for extensive renovations after Easter 2025. Plan your visit soon to see it in its current state!
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this sacred place. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress_clothing:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coral Block Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the unique Romanesque revival style, constructed from historic coral blocks, a testament to its 1843 origins.
Relics of Saints Damien & Marianne
Chapel area
Pay respects to the venerated relics of these beloved saints, deeply connected to Hawaii's history.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Main sanctuary
Experience a profound sense of tranquility and reverence within this historic and spiritually uplifting space.
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Renovations
Spiritual and Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit Before Renovations
The cathedral closes for extensive renovations after Easter 2025. Plan your visit soon to see it in its current state!
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this sacred place. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress_clothing:
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
Check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs, including items featuring Saints Damien and Mary Ann Cope. :gift:
🚶♀️ Walking Distance
Conveniently located near Ala Moana Center, making it accessible for those staying nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit Before Renovations
The cathedral closes for extensive renovations after Easter 2025. Plan your visit soon to see it in its current state!
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this sacred place. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress_clothing:
🛍️ Gift Shop Treasures
Check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs, including items featuring Saints Damien and Mary Ann Cope. :gift:
🚶♀️ Walking Distance
Conveniently located near Ala Moana Center, making it accessible for those staying nearby.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of services and other visitors when taking photos inside. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace for its stunning historic architecture, particularly its coral block construction, and its deeply peaceful and reverent atmosphere. Many highlight the spiritual significance of housing the relics of Saints Damien and Marianne Cope and commend the warm hospitality of the parish community. The upcoming renovations are noted as a reason to visit soon.
"Attended a presentation at the Cathedral Basilica explaining about the various architectural and spiritual features of the building. The presenter said that it will be closed for renovations for approximately 8 months to 2 years after this Easter 2025. I encourage everyone to consider making a donation to help with renovations of this historic Cathedral where Saints Damien and Marianne's relics are kept and venerated. Areas that will be renovated include: the pipes on the organ, ceiling, side altars, wood pews, coral columns, side wall paneling and upper balcony and choir loft areas. After the tour we had the opportunity to attend Mass and pray at the special 2025 Jubilee Cross. Visit before Easter Monday before it closes."
Mel C.
"While visiting Honolulu, we attended Sunday Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace and had a truly wonderful experience. The parish community was warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived.
What stood out most was the hospitality, we were even gifted a handmade seashell necklace, a thoughtful gesture that made us feel like part of the community rather than just visitors. The historic church itself is stunning and filled with a peaceful, reverent atmosphere.
If you’re in Honolulu, whether Catholic or simply interested in history and culture, I highly recommend visiting this basilica. It’s both spiritually uplifting and a unique part of Hawaii’s heritage."
Roberto Garcia
"During our visit to Honolulu, our first stop was the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. This is a beautiful place to thank God for the gifts we have received 🙏.
We loved the artwork of Saints Damian and Mary Ann Cope so much that we went to the gift shop and purchased a few Hawaiian Shirts with these two Saints and the Basilica printed on the shirts.
The staff here was so gracious and nice to us as visitors. Thank you."
Nobody Special
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral Basilica is located in downtown Honolulu. It's easily accessible by car, taxi, or rideshare. For those near Ala Moana Center, it's within walking distance, making it a convenient stop.
Limited parking may be available on-site, but it's often best to check in advance or consider nearby public parking garages if you are driving. Rideshares are a hassle-free option. :car:
Walking from Waikiki to the Cathedral Basilica is possible but quite a long walk (around 2-3 miles). It's more practical to take a bus, taxi, or rideshare from Waikiki. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general entry to the Cathedral Basilica is free. Donations are greatly appreciated to help with its upkeep and preservation.
Opening hours can vary, especially around holidays and for special events. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most current visiting hours. :clock1:
Yes, the Cathedral Basilica holds regular Mass services, including Saturday evening and Sunday Masses. Visitors are welcome to attend.
Yes, the Cathedral Basilica is scheduled to close for extensive renovations after Easter 2025, with an estimated duration of 8 months to 2 years.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful Romanesque revival architecture, stained glass windows, and the venerated relics of Saints Damien and Marianne Cope. The peaceful atmosphere is a highlight.
While efforts are made to accommodate visitors, older historic buildings can present accessibility challenges. It's best to contact the Cathedral directly to inquire about specific accessibility needs. :wheelchair:
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's important to be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography during Mass. :camerawithflash:
The 2025 Jubilee Cross is a special symbol for the Jubilee Year, and visitors have the opportunity to pray at it during their visit before the renovations begin.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Cathedral is located in downtown Honolulu, which offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It's also a short distance from Ala Moana Center's food court. :forkandknife:
No, food and drinks are not permitted inside the Cathedral Basilica to maintain its sanctity and cleanliness. Please consume any food or beverages outside the building. :noentrysign:
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the coral block facade, is very photogenic. Inside, the altar, stained glass, and the serene ambiance offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drone photography is not allowed. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's a sacred space, so encourage children to use their inside voices and be respectful of ongoing services. The gift shop might have small, culturally relevant items that could serve as souvenirs. Consider visiting during non-service times for a more relaxed experience. :child:
⛪ Devout Catholics
Many find the homilies to be inspiring and the overall atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection. The opportunity to venerate the saints' relics adds a unique spiritual dimension to the visit.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Exploring the details of its construction, understanding its historical context, and appreciating its preservation efforts will be highly rewarding. The stories of the saints associated with the cathedral also add a rich historical narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: A Coral Gem
The intricate details of the coral masonry and the overall design reflect a blend of traditional architectural styles adapted to the local environment. This historical significance makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the architectural heritage of Hawaii. The cathedral's enduring presence is a testament to its robust construction and the dedication of those who have maintained it over the years.
Spiritual Heart: Saints and Serenity
Many visitors describe the atmosphere inside the cathedral as incredibly peaceful and reverent. It's a place where one can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a moment of quiet reflection. The welcoming nature of the parish community, as noted by some visitors, further enhances the spiritual experience, making everyone feel a sense of belonging.
Upcoming Renovations: A New Chapter
This closure presents a unique opportunity for those who wish to see the cathedral in its current state before the changes. It also highlights the ongoing commitment to preserving this historic landmark for future generations. Donations are being encouraged to support these vital preservation efforts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit