In Hawaiian, the word “holualoa” means “long slide.” And here in the village of Holualoa, the origin of the name comes from an actual holua slide that traverses downslope through the area, passing thorough our property at Holualoa Inn. Well-preserved slide in Keauhou Constructed by Hawaiians of yesteryear, holua slides were the equivalent of a …
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Posts Categorized: Hawaii History
Remembering Hula Legend Iolani Luahine
Photograph by Francis Haar, 1961 Considered the “high priestess” of hula, she became the most esteemed hula dancer in the state of Hawai‘i. The legendary Iolani Luahine (1915-1978) was instrumental in perpetuating the traditional hula kahiko, the ancient style of dance passed on through generations of native Hawaiians. Born in Kona, she learned the art …
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Support 100-Percent Kona Coffee
Kona coffee is considered one of the premier coffees in the world. The unique growing conditions of the Kona coffee belt — located on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa —make for an ideal growing region that spans just 30 miles in length and one mile mauka/makai. There are 700-plus coffee farms in the …
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A Driving Tour of Kona Heritage Corridor
Old Mamalohoa Highway winds its way through upcountry Kona and beyond, revealing a plethora of historic sights along the way. A 10-mile stretch of this scenic highway comprises the Kona Heritage Corridor, which passes through the village of Holualoa, home of Holualoa Inn. History is evident along this route, whether dry-stack stone walls, roadside general …
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Holualoa’s Lauhala Weaving History
Lauhala hat Holualoa is known for its art galleries, estate-grown coffee and, of course, the Holualoa Inn. But did you know that Holualoa has been a hub for lauhala weaving for generations? Indeed, some of the state’s finest lauhala weavers come from Holualoa, including the legendary Aunty Elizabeth Maluihi Lee. Named a Living Treasure by …
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Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau Cultural Festival, 2011
As the famous song goes, everybody loves a hukilau. But how many of you have actually seen a real hukilau in person? This year’s festival marks the park’s 50th anniversary. Visitors to Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park will have the opportunity to witness the ways and lifestyles of Old Hawai‘i, when the park presents …
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The Hawaiian Tradition of Pa‘u Riding
Pa‘u princess, Island of Lana‘i. As Kamehameha Day approaches on June 11, equestrians throughout the Hawaiian Islands are preparing for floral parades in honor of the great monarch, King Kamehameha I. Adorned in the colors and flora of the islands, the regal pa‘u riders are the highlight of every parade. Led by a princess outfitted …
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Hulihe‘e Palace
Did you know that there are three royal palaces in the United States? In fact, all three palaces are located in the state of Hawaii: two of them on Oahu (Iolani Palace and Queen Emma Summer Palace), and one of them right here in Kona. Situated on the oceanfront in Kailua-Kona, Hulihe‘e Palace was built …
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