Place · 0.2 mi away
Overview
Waiola (formerly Waineʻe) Church and its adjacent cemetery sit at the heart of Lahaina’s royal and missionary era. The mission was established in 1823 under the protection of Keōpūolani, and a substantial stone church followed soon after—the first of its kind in the Islands. The grounds witnessed the capital years of the Hawaiian Kingdom and centuries of worship, loss, and rebuilding.
Why it matters
Waineʻe/Waiola Cemetery (est. 1823) is the oldest Christian graveyard in Hawaiʻi and a resting place for high-ranking aliʻi and early missionaries. Among those interred are Keōpūolani, Kaumualiʻi, Nāhiʻenaʻena, Kuini Liliha, Ulumāheihei Hoapili, Kalākua Kaheiheimālie, Kekauʻōnohi, and missionary William Richards. Missionary and Native Hawaiian graves stand side by side—a rare, humbling tableau of the period.
Current status
The August 2023 Lahaina wildfire destroyed the church buildings, and the site is listed as permanently closed for regular visiting. Since March 2025, the congregation has been gathering once a month for a simple outdoor service under a tent; attendees have been asked to bring their own chairs. Amenities are minimal to nonexistent outside of these gatherings, and parts of Lahaina have had evolving access and recovery guidance.
What you’ll see (when access is permitted)
A serene, sacred burial ground with historic headstones and tombs connected to Hawaiʻi’s aliʻi and early mission history. Come to reflect, not to rush; it’s more about quiet context than grand architecture right now.
Etiquette
This is an active, sacred burial ground. Be calm and respectful; stay on paths; don’t touch or sit on tombs; keep photography discreet; give space to any kūpuna, church members, or caretakers.
Best time to visit
General touring may be restricted. If you wish to experience the site through worship, plan for the congregation’s first-Sunday service at 10:00 a.m., when it is held. Otherwise, avoid casual drop-ins unless local guidance clearly indicates that visitation is appropriate.
Pros
- Oldest Christian graveyard in Hawaiʻi with notable royal burials
- Powerful sense of history at Lahaina’s former royal-era church site
Cons
- Buildings destroyed in the 2023 wildfire; access and hours are evolving
- No on-site amenities; active recovery area where quiet respect is essential
Tips
- Treat the grounds as sacred: be quiet, stay on paths, and keep photos discreet.
- Do not assume open access; check local guidance and posted notices before going.
- If attending the monthly service, bring your own chair and water.
- Expect no restrooms, water, or seating on regular days.
- Confirm the first-Sunday 10 a.m. service schedule before you plan a visit.
