Kauai Museum is a jewel in the crown of Hawaiian attractions. This is the place to visit for those who want a taste of the Hawaii which once was and the Hawaii of tomorrow. Past and present merge in the cultural artifacts which have been preserved at the Kauai Museum – Hawaii. There is also an historical archive of photographs, written records, and albums from 1890-2002 here at the disposal of researchers and history aficionados alike. Kauai Museum – Hawaii is a must see for any Hawaiian traveler.
What to Expect
While Hawaii can be very rainy and warm, the Kauai Museum – Hawaii is located entirely inside, so weather considerations need not be taken. Kauai Museum – Hawaii hosts traveling and special exhibits throughout the year, and it is best to call prior to a visit to inquire about the current special exhibits. A permanent collection is always on display, year round. Exhibits the visitor is sure to see include the archive library, works of art, historical artifacts, natural science pieces, and cultural materials and textiles from Hawaii and other Pacific Islander cultures.
Special Events at Kauai Museum
Throughout the year, there are a variety of special events hosted by Kauai Museum – Hawaii. Depending upon the time of year, the visitor might experience the Christmas Craft Fair or the May Day Lei Day Contest. The Christmas Craft Fair is not the average church bazaar. It includes handicrafts from local artisans who draw upon the rich culture of the Hawaiian islands around them. Handicrafts sold at the Christmas Craft Fair are only those which reflect the Hawaiian culture. This is a single day event, and visitors should call the Kauai Museum – Hawaii to verify the date.
The May Day Lei Day Contest occurs on May 1 annually, and it is one of the largest lei contests in the state, and visitors to Kauai Museum – Hawaii can choose to participate or view the entries. In a desire to preserve the endangered species of the islands, Kauai Museum – Hawaii has prohibited such plants from being used in the contest entrants. A nominal fee for non-museum members will be charged to view the leis.
Hours of Operation
Kauai Museum – Hawaii is open from 9 am until 4 pm Monday through Friday, and 10 am until 4 pm on Saturdays. Kauai Museum – Hawaii is closed on Sundays.
Admission Cost
On Tuesdays through Fridays at 10:30 am a free guided public tour is included with the admission cost.
Adults: $10
Teenagers 13-17: $3
Seniors: $8
Children 6-12: $1
Children under 5: Free
How to Get There
From the Lihu’e Airport drive to the traffic light. Turn left on Kuhio Hwy.. Continue on Kuhio Hwy. for two traffic signals, up to Rice Street. Make a right on Rice Street and go up several blocks until you see a large stone building on your right. Directly across from the museum is the Lihu’e Post Office and First Hawaiian Bank. The Kaua’i Museum is on the corner of Rice St. and Eiwa Street.
