5 Most Beautiful and Awe-Inspiring Churches and Cathedrals in Hawaii

Because Hawaii is known for its gorgeous beaches and vibrant landscapes, many people miss the number of beautiful churches and cathedrals located in The Aloha State. It might come as a surprise that this beautiful tropical paradise in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is home to some lovely pieces of religious architecture. Many of these churches and cathedrals reflect the connection between Polynesian history, local culture, and Christianity. Keep reading to find out the five most beautiful and awe-inspiring churches and cathedrals in Hawaii.

The Geography of Hawaii

Hawaii is an island approximately 2,000 miles from the U.S. mainland, located in the Pacific Ocean. It is the only state not situated directly in North America. It’s also the only state that is an archipelago, or a collection of islands. With 137 volcanic islands, Hawaii is comprised of Ni’ihau, Kaua’i, O’ahu, Moloka’i, Lāna’i, Kaho’olawe, Maui, and Hawai’i (which is what the state is named after). The latter is often called the “Big Island” or “Hawaii Island” to avoid confusion with the state name. 

Hawaii is the eighth smallest state in the United States. In terms of population density, it ranks 13th, with over 1.4 million residents. Nearly two-thirds of Hawaiians live on O’ahu, which is home to the state’s capital and largest city, Honolulu. 

The History of Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands were settled by Polynesians between 1000-1200 AD. Early Hawaiian culture began to take its own shape as the society developed its own language and culture. By the late 18th century, European explorers began arriving in Hawaii, which initiated a period of trading. In 1810, King Kamehameha the Great unified the islands into a single kingdom, which eventually led the kingdom to establish global powers. 

By the 19th century, Westerners had brought various diseases, wiping out the native Hawaiian population. However, the sugar industry saw great success despite the distress of the natives. Hawaii, with its monarchy, slowly became a thriving sugar industry. 

In 1893, a group of American businessmen overthrew Hawaii’s monarchy in a coup d’etat. After some political and cultural turmoil in 1898, Hawaii was annexed by the United States. It then became a U.S. territory. 

Then, in 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor led the United States into World War II. Hawaii’s strategic importance in the Pacific led the islands to become a state in 1959. 

Hawaiian Culture

The Hawaiian people have experienced the dissolution of their monarchy and the invasion of their culture and ways of being. With the rise of Christian missionaries, churches began to pop up across the islands. Although the history of these buildings and their religious perspectives might have complex beginnings, the churches and cathedrals on this list offer a unique portrayal of Hawaiian history and architecture. 

1. St Augustine by-the-Sea Episcopal Church (Honolulu)

St. Augustine by-the-Sea Episcopal Church sits in the heart of Waikiki, providing an escape from the bustling beachside town. It has been the only church in Waikiki since 1854, and it was the third parish in the islands. During the construction of this seaside church, many Hawaiian Catholics were facing persecution. The construction of St. Augustine by-the-Sea Episcopal Church was finished by the 1830s. By then, much of the persecution had dissipated.

St. Augustine is a testament to neo-Gothic architecture, which is evident in its stained-glass windows, which depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Hawaiian monarchy. The church features white stucco walls and a striking blue roof. The most striking feature of St. Augustine is its carved Koa wood altar and ceiling, a nod to Hawaiian culture. 

With its peaceful sanctuary and stunning ocean views, St. Augustine by-the-Sea Episcopal Church is a place where attendees and visitors can experience the natural beauty of Hawaii. 

2. Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Honolulu)

The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is a historic gem in the heart of Honolulu. Commonly referred to as the “St. Mary’s Cathedral,” it is the oldest Catholic cathedral still in use. The church dates back to the reign of King Kamehameha III.

The arrival of the first Catholic missionaries in Hawaii on July 7, 1827, who integrated themselves into the community and sought to learn the language of the natives, prompted the building’s construction. The church was built during the 1820s.

The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is an example of Greco-Roman architecture. The exterior is white, a starch contrast to the modern buildings of downtown Honolulu. Additionally, the cathedral’s interior boasts stained glass windows and an intricately carved wooden altar. One of the most unique features of the church is its hand-painted ceramic tiles. 

As the oldest church in Hawaii, The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is a sacred piece of religious and cultural heritage. 

3. St. Joseph Catholic Church (Maui)

St. Joseph Catholic Church, like St. Mary’s Cathedral, dates back to the arrival of the first Catholic missionaries in 1827. The church was built by Father James Beissel in 1882. The church went through a few different versions before it was finally finished in 1911. St. Joseph Catholic Church still looks the same today, except for the bell tower added in the 1920s.

The church is a blend of Gothic and Portuguese architecture. The building’s exterior offers hand-painted blue and white detailing. These colors are to honor the Portuguese immigrants who worked on the church’s construction. The interior of the church has a wooden ceiling, stained glass windows, and a handcrafted wooden altar. 

Located on a lush, green hillside, St. Joseph Catholic Church is a vital part of its local community. The church regularly hosts cultural events and festivals, and it is definitely an awe-inspiring church because of its lovely architecture and hospitable philosophies. 

4. Wai’oli Hui’ia Church (Kaua’i)

Wai’oli Hui’ia Church is rich in color and history. This gorgeous forest green, spired church is a popular photography spot in Hanalei, Kaua’i. The first two versions of the church were destroyed by fire. However, members of the congregation banded together and began rebuilding in 1836. The Mission Bell was acquired in 1843, and the bell was later added to the belfry. Wai’oli Hui’ia Church is the oldest surviving church on the island of Kaua’i.

Its belfry, or the belltower, is an iconic image of the island and its culture. With palm fronds surrounding the church, it’s a perfect illustration of the island’s beauty. The interior of Wai’oli Hui’ia Church has white walls and dark wood pews, which pair nicely with the stained-glass windows.

Surrounded by lush greenery, Wai’oli Hui’ia Church’s historical and cultural significance make it a special place for the Hanalei community and its visitors. 

5.  St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church (Honaunau) 

Commonly known as “Painted Church, St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church is located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The church sits very close to the historic Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on a leveled slope that was once a 13,680-foot-tall mountain called Mauna Loa. 

St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church is a work of art. Father John Berchmans Velge, a priest who took over the church in 1899, painted the interior walls of the church with Bible scenes. With Father John’s growing fame, St. Benedict earned the nicknamed “The Painted Church.” Today, the church is a major tourist attraction. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church offers stunning artwork, a beautiful altar, and intricate murals. The church is open daily for visitors and continues to hold mass five days a week.

Hawaii’s Religious Landscape

Despite the complex aspects of Hawaii’s historical, cultural, and religious evolutions, the architectural remnants of the past are illustrations of the state’s unique traditions and heritage. These awe-inspiring churches and Cathedrals in Hawaii are a sight to behold for both locals and tourists. 

Summary of the 5 Most Beautiful Awe-Inspiring Churches and Cathedrals in Hawaii

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Shane Myers Photography/Shutterstock.com