Royal Mausoleum State Monument (Mauna ‘Ala) Honolulu
A sacred burial site honoring Hawaiian monarchs, offering a profound connection to the islands' rich history and royal legacies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Royal Mausoleum State Monument (Mauna ‘Ala) Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred burial site honoring Hawaiian monarchs, offering a profound connection to the islands' rich history and royal legacies.
"Experience the rich history and cultural traditions of Hawaii through an unparalleled docent. "
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Docents like Kumu Doni offer incredible historical context. Email ahead to schedule!
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a sacred burial site. Modest attire is appreciated to honor the mana.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Tombs
Main Mausoleum Building
The final resting place of Hawaiian monarchs and their families. A deeply moving and spiritual experience.
Kumu Doni's Guidance
Guided Tours
Experience the rich history and cultural traditions of Hawaii through an unparalleled docent.
Legacy of the Monarchy
Grounds and surrounding areas
Learn about the lasting contributions of Hawaiian royalty to education, healthcare, and public spaces.
Planning Your Visit
Respect Sacred Ground
Check Opening Days
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Docents like Kumu Doni offer incredible historical context. Email ahead to schedule!
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a sacred burial site. Modest attire is appreciated to honor the mana.
Visiting the Palace.
🗓️ Check Weekday Hours
The Mausoleum is closed on weekends. Plan your visit accordingly.
🚗 Private Car Access
While tours are limited, a private car can enter the grounds for a visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Guided Tour
Docents like Kumu Doni offer incredible historical context. Email ahead to schedule!
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a sacred burial site. Modest attire is appreciated to honor the mana.
🗓️ Check Weekday Hours
The Mausoleum is closed on weekends. Plan your visit accordingly.
🚗 Private Car Access
While tours are limited, a private car can enter the grounds for a visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Mauna 'Ala a deeply moving and historically significant site, praising the knowledgeable docents who bring Hawaiian royalty's legacies to life. The sacred atmosphere and the monarchs' contributions to education and healthcare are frequently highlighted. However, the limited weekday-only hours and the inability to see indoor spaces on all visits are noted drawbacks.
"COME PAY YOUR DEEP RESPECTS TO THE SOCIALLY CONSCIOUS KINGS AND QUEENS OF HAWAII IN RECOGNITION OF THEIR INSPIRATIONAL, LASTING CONTRIBUTIONS. High up in Nuuanu Valley is sacred land. Here the kings and queens along other members of the royal Hawaiian family and predominate associates are at their final resting place. Most of the royals were deeply committed Christian's, with a ferverent desire to loving serve their Hawaiian people.
The Curator of these hallowed grounds asks that all who come respectfully honor the Mana (the spirit) of this sacred space.
These benevolent forward-looking royals left remarable legacies, which their peoples enjoy today. They built churches, fostered learning and education by establishng prominent schools. They attended to the health care needs of those under their charge by erecting leading hospitals. They left parks and gardens for all to enjoy.
For more details about the direct contributions of the respective monarchs, please visit my various posts. These include: the Queen's Medical Center POB 1 (Queen Emma), the Physicians Building POB 2 (Queen Emma), along with the Cathedral of Saint Andrew (all established by Queen Emma). Kapi'olani Regional Park (Queen Kapi'olani) and Queen Kapi'olani Garden are other entries. Kapi'olani Community College (Queen Kapi'olani) and K.C.C. Farmer's Market are still other contributions.
Please also visit my "King Kamehameha State" and "King Kamehameha Celebration" entries. I believe, they will introduce YOU to some of the very popular local traditions."
Ken Kroehler
"There are no words to accurately describe and portray the true aloha spirit that lovely Kumu Doni embodies. Her delivery of the history of Hawai'i’s rich culture and the meaningfulness behind it is unmatched. She embodies all that is mana and all that is aloha and it is felt through her words, her oli and her song. Her deeply rooted knowledge is the essence of who she is as kama 'aina and who she is in her role. Mahalo piha, Kumu Doni for allowing us the honor of feeling and sharing that with you."
Lella Wardeh
"Moana Nui Polynesian school of dance from California received the most precious gift today. Please accept our heartfelt thanks for allowing us the honor of learning, connecting, and remembering within the sacred walls of Mauna ʻAla. We carry the mana and lessons with us as we continue to walk this path of hula and cultural preservation. Mahalo nui loa to Kahu Ka’imiloa and Kumu Doni for blessing us. We will never forget this once in a lifetime moment.
With gratitude and aloha,
Wailana"
Rhonda Stutz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Mausoleum State Monument (Mauna 'Ala) is located in Nu'uanu Valley, a short drive from downtown Honolulu. You can reach it by car, taxi, or rideshare service. Public transportation options are limited, so driving or a taxi is often recommended.
Yes, there is parking available at the Royal Mausoleum State Monument. It's generally sufficient for visitors, but can fill up during peak times.
It is not recommended to walk to the Royal Mausoleum from Waikiki as it's a significant distance (several miles) and involves busy roads. Taking a taxi, rideshare, or driving is a much more practical option.
Public transport options to the Royal Mausoleum are limited and may require transfers. It's best to check current bus routes and schedules with TheBus if you plan to use public transit.
If you don't have a car, consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation, or using a taxi or rideshare service for a direct trip to and from the monument.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter the Royal Mausoleum State Monument. It is a free-to-visit historical site.
The Royal Mausoleum State Monument is open on weekdays, typically from Monday to Friday. It is closed on weekends and public holidays. Always check the official state park website for the most current hours.
No, the Royal Mausoleum State Monument is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Plan your visit for a weekday to ensure access.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. Docents like Kumu Doni provide invaluable historical context. It's advisable to contact the monument in advance, possibly via email, to inquire about and schedule tours.
There are no age restrictions for visiting the Royal Mausoleum. However, as it is a sacred burial site, all visitors are expected to behave respectfully.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mauna 'Ala, meaning 'fragrant mountain,' is the sacred burial ground for Hawaiian monarchs and their relatives. It's a place of deep historical and spiritual importance, honoring the legacies of Hawaii's royalty.
It's important to dress respectfully as Mauna 'Ala is a sacred site. Modest clothing is recommended. Avoid beachwear or overly casual attire.
Yes, restrooms are available on the grounds of the Royal Mausoleum State Monument for visitor convenience.
Photography policies can vary. While general photos of the grounds are usually permitted, it's best to be discreet and respectful, especially near the tombs. Always check for posted signage regarding photography restrictions.
'Mana' refers to spiritual power or energy. Visitors are encouraged to respect the mana of Mauna 'Ala, recognizing it as a sacred site where the spirits of Hawaiian royalty reside.
📸 📸 Photography
The mausoleum building itself, the lush grounds, and the various monuments offer picturesque opportunities. Focus on capturing the serene and dignified atmosphere of the site.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at state monuments and sacred sites to maintain peace and respect. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
Photography should be respectful and unobtrusive. Focus on architectural details, the natural beauty of the grounds, and capturing the solemn ambiance. Avoid intrusive flash photography or posing for selfies in sensitive areas.
Photography of the interior tombs may be restricted. Always look for signage indicating where photography is permitted. Respect any limitations to preserve the sanctity of the burial sites.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can enhance the serene beauty of the grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Hawaiian Royalty
Understanding the historical context of the Hawaiian Kingdom is crucial to appreciating the significance of Mauna 'Ala. The monument serves as a solemn reminder of a sovereign nation and its leaders' dedication to their people. The 'mana' or spiritual energy believed to reside here underscores the deep cultural reverence for ancestors and sacred sites in Hawaiian tradition.
For those interested in Hawaiian history, a visit to Mauna 'Ala offers a profound connection to the past. It's an opportunity to pay respects and gain a deeper understanding of the islands' heritage beyond the popular tourist narratives.
Experiencing the Sacred Atmosphere
Many visitors find the experience to be moving and impactful, especially when guided by knowledgeable docents who share the stories and cultural importance of the site.
While the indoor spaces may not always be open, the exterior grounds and the main mausoleum building offer a powerful sense of history and reverence. It's a place to reflect on the legacies of Hawaiian royalty and the enduring spirit of Aloha.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit