Pros & cons
PROS
- Gorgeous hand‑painted interior murals
- Free entry with daily open hours
CONS
- Remote area with limited nearby services
- Small site—usually a brief stop
Overview
A tiny wooden chapel with a giant story, Star of the Sea is the soulful capstone to a Red Road day. Built in 1928, it was famously moved out of harm’s way when lava advanced through Kalapana in 1990. Today it sits just off Highway 130, calm and welcoming, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
What You’ll See
Inside, the walls and ceiling are covered in vivid paintings. Father Evarist Matthias Gielen painted the upper vaults and entry; George Heidler added panels in 1941 telling the story of Father Damien; and in 1949 George Lorch contributed detailed trompe‑l’oeil murals—some with Hawaiian‑language scripture. Stained‑glass windows of Father Damien and Mother Marianne by Ken Burkhardt glow beautifully in late‑afternoon light.
Visiting Info
Hours are typically 9 am–4 pm daily, admission is free, and donations help the local caretaker group keep the doors open. A Mass is held at 4 pm on the first Friday of each month. Be quiet and respectful inside; photography is fine, but don’t touch the artwork. The church is considered safe from current volcanic activity, though this coast has a deep lava history.
Amenities
There’s parking next to the church, a single portable toilet, and a few picnic tables on the grounds. You may spot friendly cats and the occasional chicken wandering about.
Getting There
From Pāhoa, the quick route is straight down Hwy 130; the scenic route is the Kapoho–Kalapana “Red Road” along Hwy 137, then a short jog onto Hwy 130 to the church near mile markers 19–20.
Best Time to Visit
Come late afternoon to see the stained glass at its best. If you prefer a quiet interior for photos or reflection, avoid the First Friday 4 pm Mass time.
Where it is
19.3728, -154.9637Tips for Star of the Sea Painted Church
- 01Visit in late afternoon—the stained glass lights up beautifully.
- 02Drive the Red Road (Hwy 137) and finish here via a short hop on Hwy 130.
- 03First Friday Mass is at 4 pm; plan around it for quiet photos or attend.
- 04Bring a few dollars for a donation to support upkeep.
Amenities
Near Star of the Sea Painted Church
All places →All trails →
0.9 mi awayUncle Robert's Night MarketLively Wednesday market of music, food, and community at road’s endFood · Restroom
1.2 mi awayKaimū Black Sand BeachYoung black‑sand shore born from 1990 lavaParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1.2 mi awayKaimu–Kalapana New Beach TrailShort lava-field walk to a fickle, newborn black-sand shoreline.Easy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
2.7 mi awayKehena Beach TrailShort, steep scramble to a moody black-sand cove with a free spirit.Moderate · 0.4 mi · 30 min
2.7 mi awayKehena Black Sand BeachSmall black sand cove with dolphins and a Sunday drum circleParking · Scenic Viewpoint
4.7 mi awayPalm Tree Grove Overlooking the OceanCoconut grove pullout with wide‑open ocean and surf viewsPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
7.8 mi awayMacKenzie State Park Coastal TrailShort, rugged sea‑cliff ramble on the old King’s Highway.Moderate · 3.5 mi · 2.5 hr
7.8 mi awayOld Puna TrailFlat, muddy walk to secluded Hā‘ena (Shipman) Beach via old roadEasy · 5 mi · 3 hr
