Are the ghosts of Hawaiian royalty haunting the Huliheʻe Palace? Who is it people claim to see in the shadows of the old building on the Big Island?
On the shores of Kailua-Kona on Hawaiʻi Big Island, the Huliheʻe Palace stands as a testament to the rich and complex history of Hawaii’s royal past. Built in 1838 by Governor John Adams Kuakini as his home, this grand two-story structure served as a luxurious vacation home for Native Hawaiian royalty on Ali’i Drive, the main street of the city.
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With its stuccoed walls and airy verandas, the palace is a striking symbol of Hawaii’s monarchy and the blending of Hawaiian and Western architectural styles. Back in the day it was a great summer place for a get-away as well as the location for grand parties. It was left to decay in 1914 though, but the Daughters of Hawaii took over it in 1928 and has since used the building as a museum. But beyond its historical significance and beauty, the palace is also known for something far more eerie—its haunted reputation.
The Ghost of Princess Kaʻiulani
Among the many spirits believed to haunt the Huliheʻe Palace, the most commonly encountered is that of Princess Kaʻiulani, the last heir apparent to the Hawaiian throne. The young princess, known for her grace, intelligence, and beauty, is said to still wander the palace she once adored. Visitors and staff have reported sightings of a delicate figure moving through the corridors, dressed in flowing white gowns typical of her era. Her apparition is often seen gazing wistfully out to sea, as if longing for the life she was destined for but never lived to see fulfilled.
Alongside these sightings, there have been frequent reports of soft, ghostly footsteps echoing through the halls, even when the palace is otherwise empty. More chilling still is the sudden and unexplained scent of fresh flowers—plumeria or pikake, believed to be a sign of Princess Kaʻiulani’s presence. Those who have experienced these phenomena describe feeling a mix of sadness and serenity, a quiet reminder of the princess’s untimely death at the age of 23.
Otherworldly Encounters at Huliheʻe
Princess Kaʻiulani is not the only spirit rumored to linger at Huliheʻe Palace and around the ceremonial execution stones, Pohaku Likanaka. They are also accompanied with sacred artifacts called Pohaku, or walking stones, said to carry a curse and known to move around.
Some claim to have encountered other royal apparitions, including Queen Kapiʻolani and King Kalākaua. Their presence is often felt during quiet moments, particularly in the evenings when the palace is closed to the public. Staff members recount strange occurrences: flickering lights, objects moving on their own, and the sensation of being watched by unseen eyes.
Read More: Check out The Haunting of ʻIolani Palace: Echoes of Royal Spirits where the king and queen are also thought to haunt.
There are also reports about the place being haunted by the ghost of a young Hawaiian boy. Who he was and why he chose to haunt the place for eternity is uncertain. Could it be that of Prince Albert, said to haunt the place as well? He is said to be peeking through the window on the upper floors where his cradle is displayed.
The Palace of Restless Spirits
For those who believe in the supernatural, Huliheʻe Palace serves as a bridge between the past and the present—a place where the spirits of Hawaii’s royalty continue to watch over their former domain. Each room seems to echo with whispers of the past, and each corner holds the potential for an encounter with those who once walked its halls.
Step carefully, for you may find yourself in the company of a princess, still longing for a kingdom that slipped away. As the scent of flowers fills the air, remember—you are not alone. The royals are always watching, their spirits forever intertwined with the land they loved.
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References:
Kona’s Fascinating History: Hulihe’e Palace | Lovingthebigisland’s Weblog
Hulihee Palace, Hawaii | Roadtrippers
Haunted Hawaii Hulihe‘e Palace – Kailua-Kona Ghost Walk
https://www.riseupparanormal.com/hawaii.htm