On the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawai`i, a special place of unparalleled beauty exists…where rolling green pastures slope gently to the blue Pacific, quaint towns are gathering spots for visitors and friendly residents alike, and culture and history are found around every corner. This is the region of North Kohala.

North Kohala is rich in history and is the birthplace of King Kamehameha the Great who united the Hawaiian Islands under one kingdom in the early 1790s. A statue of the king stands in Kapa`au and is honored every year in June on his birthday with a lei draping ceremony. The King Kamehameha Day celebration includes a grand parade and festival complete with entertainment of music and hula, regional cuisine, arts and crafts from local artisans and historical and cultural exhibits. The area was also one of the largest producers of sugar cane with numerous mills throughout the North Kohala region. The last mill closed in the mid1970s and much of the land today is used for private stewardship or the production of agricultural crops.

The North Kohala district includes the charming towns of Hawi and Kapa`au that are home to unique galleries and boutiques, fabulous eateries offering local and regional cuisine and historical landmarks and buildings.

North Kohala is truly a magical place with a warm, enduring spirit. From the kindness of its community residents to its breathtaking beauty, North Kohala is a place that inspires, amazes and replenishes the soul.