Coordinates
136 Kalakaua St, Hilo, HI 96720.
Intersection with Waianuenue Avenue.
The Merrie Monarch
King David
Kalākaua.
Downtown Landmark
Kalākaua Park, Hilo
The Cultural Reviver
This life-size bronze statue depicts King Kalākaua in a commanding pose, holding a pāhoehoe (staff of authority). Known as "The Merrie Monarch," he restored Hawaiian cultural traditions, including the hula, and completed ʻIolani Palace.
Impeccable Style: Distinguished by his signature mustache and regal dress, standing prominently in the park bearing his name.
A Living Legacy
The park is a central gathering place in Hilo, fitting for a King who patronized music, art, and dance. His legacy is celebrated annually in Hilo during the world-famous Merrie Monarch Festival.
Patron of the Arts
Visitor Protocol
Access Level
Free Admission. Accessible 24/7. Easy stop when exploring downtown shops.
Surroundings
Features a historic gazebo. Short walk from Hilo Bayfront.
Legacy: The Last Reigning King
Honoring the vitality of the Hawaiian Kingdom
History & Background
King David Kalākaua reigned as the last king of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1874 until his death in 1891. Born in 1836, he was known throughout the Pacific and beyond for his brilliance as a diplomat, his love of the arts, and his fierce dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of his people. When he assumed the throne, Hawaiian traditions had been suppressed for decades under missionary influence. Kalākaua reversed this trend dramatically.
His most enduring cultural contribution was the revival of the hula, a sacred and expressive form of storytelling through dance that had been effectively banned. He also oversaw the completion of ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu, which became one of the first electrified royal residences in the world. His travels to the United States, Europe, and Asia as part of an around-the-world tour in 1881 made him the first reigning monarch of any nation to circumnavigate the globe.
In Hilo, on the Big Island, Kalākaua Park and its bronze statue stand as a tribute to this extraordinary figure. The statue was installed in downtown Hilo as a permanent monument to remind residents and visitors alike of the king who fought—through diplomacy, culture, and sheer personal charisma—to keep his kingdom sovereign. The park itself serves as the cultural and civic heart of Hilo's downtown district.
What to Expect
The Statue
The life-size bronze sculpture depicts King Kalākaua in formal royal attire, holding a pāhoehoe — a traditional staff of authority. His distinctive mustache and dignified stance make this one of the most recognizable statues on the Big Island. The casting captures both his regal bearing and his approachable character.
The Park Setting
Kalākaua Park is a well-maintained green space at the intersection of Kalakaua Street and Waianuenue Avenue. A Victorian-era bandstand gazebo — one of the oldest in the state — anchors the park and hosts community events. The area is shaded, with benches ideal for resting during a walk through Hilo's historic downtown.
Merrie Monarch Connection
Every spring, Hilo hosts the Merrie Monarch Festival — the world's premier hula competition, held in honor of King Kalākaua's legacy. Visiting the statue during festival week offers a particularly moving experience, as the entire city comes alive with the cultural traditions he fought to preserve.
Photography
The park is one of Hilo's best spots for photography. The statue is well-lit and framed by mature tropical foliage. The surrounding historic storefronts and the frequent passing of locals create an authentic, unhurried atmosphere unlike the more tourist-heavy corridors of Oahu.
Nearby Attractions
Hilo Bayfront & Coconut Island
A short walk from Kalākaua Park leads to Hilo Bayfront, a scenic stretch of waterfront with views of Mauna Kea on clear days. Just offshore, Coconut Island (Mokuola) is a small islet connected by a footbridge, historically significant as a Hawaiian healing place. It remains a popular swimming and picnic spot for locals.
Pacific Tsunami Museum
Located a few blocks from the park at 130 Kamehameha Ave, this museum documents the devastating tsunamis that shaped Hilo's history, including the 1946 and 1960 events. It is a sobering and informative stop that provides deep context for understanding Hilo as it stands today.
Wailuku River State Park & Rainbow Falls
Just over a mile from downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls is one of Hawaii's most photographed waterfalls. The 80-foot cascade plunges into a natural lava bowl, and on sunny mornings, a rainbow is almost guaranteed in the mist below. The surrounding park is free to enter and easily accessible by car or bicycle.