The Authentic Hawaiian Village That Will Transport You Back In Time
By Megan Shute|Published February 12, 2019
×
Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
There’s no doubt about it: when it comes to fascinating history, the Hawaiian Islands are perhaps one of the most unique destinations in the entire country.
While you will find historic sites across the islands from the north shore of Kauai to the southernmost tip of Hawaii Island, today we’re taking you to an often-overlooked Hawaiian village nestled along Kauai’s beautiful Wailua River.
Here, you will take a step back in time to experience native lifestyles in natural habitats from centuries ago while also enjoying plenty of adventure.
Located on Kuamo’o Road across from the Opaeka’a Falls parking lot on the island of Kauai, Kamokila Hawaiian Village is a modest 4-acre oasis where Old Hawaii comes to life.
This reconstructed Hawaiian village nestled on an authentic village site, Kamokila features 14 thatched-roof structures, a canoe house, a birthing house, a hula house, the chief’s assembly house, and a doctor’s house. Storyboards and artifacts explain each structure’s purpose.
Lush gardens surround the village, yielding traditional Hawaiian fruits and flowers and providing a stunning backdrop from which to enjoy a history lesson.
Kamokila Hawaiian Village was developed and is operated by a Kauai family dedicated to offering a casual, laid-back historic experience to small crowds. Guests will not only learn more about life in ancient Hawaii but get a taste of contemporary Hawaiian hospitality.
In addition to the self-guided tour of the village, guests can embark on a variety of adventures from this exclusive location along the Wailua River. Whether you rent a canoe to enjoy a self-guided tour or opt for a guided outrigger canoe ride, you won’t be disappointed with the landscapes that surround this authentic village.
...or visit this ethereal fern grotto. Known for its ferns that grow upside down from the roof of the grotto, this naturally-formed lava cave was formed millions of years ago, and is home to various native Hawaiian plant species as well as colorful, exotic plants, that come together to make visitors feel as though they have entered a tropical rainforest.
With plenty of cultural learning, gorgeous views, and adventure, Kamokila Hawaiian Village is truly one-of-a-kind. History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will love spending the day here.
If you're looking for an affordable excursion on Kauai's Wailua River, this is it: admission to the village is just $5 for adults and $3 for children, daily canoe rentals are only $35, and guided tours range in price from $20 to $30.
Kamokila Hawaiian Village is located at 5523-5519 Kuamoo Rd., Kapaa, HI 96746, and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information or to make your reservation, visit their website. You can also follow them on Facebook.
