Name: Hula Auana Class
Start: 2025-12-18
End: 2025-12-18
Location: Queen Emma Summer Palace

Explore royal history at Queen Emma Summer Palace

Step off the busy streets of Honolulu and into the quiet beauty of Queen Emma Summer Palace—Hānaiakamalama—a cherished royal retreat nestled in the coolness of Nu‘uanu Valley.

This was not a seat of government, but a beloved home that's now a house museum. Queen Emma and her husband, Kamehameha IV, came here to retreat from court life in Honolulu, to reflect and reconnect with the land and people she loved.

As you walk through the breezy rooms and shaded lanais, you’ll feel the personal touch of a queen who cared deeply for her people. Queen Emma, wife of King Kamehameha IV, was a forward-thinking leader who helped establish The Queen’s Hospital and advocated for education and public health. Her summer home still holds her original furniture, personal belongings, elegant china and quilts, and family portraits—each piece offering a glimpse into her life and legacy.

This is one of only three royal residences remaining from the Hawaiian monarchy. And it nearly vanished. In 1915, the home was slated for demolition by the Territorial Government to make way for a baseball field. That’s when the Daughters of Hawai‘i stepped in. These dedicated women saved the home, turning it into a museum so future generations could experience the rich history of Hawai‘i’s monarchy.

As you explore the palace, you’ll see gifts and royal regalia that reflect Queen Emma’s life. You'll learn the sad story of her beloved son and heir, Prince Albert. Docents share stories of her life—her horseback rides through the mountains, her love of literature and music, and her unwavering commitment to the Hawaiian people. Visitors often describe the experience as peaceful and moving. It’s not just a museum—it’s a place where history breathes, and where the spirit of Queen Emma still welcomes you.

Hānaiakamalama is Hawai‘i's first historic house museum, a timeless symbol of elegance and grace during the Kingdom of Hawai‘i.

Hānaiakamalama is listed on the State and National Historic Registries. Today the Palace is an historic landmark and cultural site preserved and managed by the Daughters of Hawai‘i.

Palace Admissions

Docent-guided tours are generally available on Saturday at 10:30 AM. Docent-guided tours are based on docent availability with limited space available. Reservations are recommended; walk-ins based on availability.

Docent-Guided Tour

$20 General Admission
$18 Military with ID
$16 Seniors with ID (62 yrs & older)
$12 Youth (5-12)
$3 Children (4 yrs & under)
$16 Kama‘āina with ID
$9 Kama‘āina Keiki (5-12)

Self-guided tours are generally available Wednesday to Saturday starting at 10 AM, with the last entry 30 minutes before closing.

Self-Guided Tour

$14 General Admission
$12 Military with ID
$10 Seniors with ID (62 yrs & older)
$5 Youth (5-12)
$1 Children (4 yrs & under)
$10 Kama‘āina with ID
$3 Kama‘āina Keiki (5-12)

Book Your Visit

Limited parking available on site.

Group Tours

For groups of more than 10 people, please call at least one-week prior to visiting to schedule a tour (808) 595-6291.

School Field Trips

Our tour teaches keiki an important part of Hawaiian history as they walk through the former summer home of Queen Emma, King Kamehameha IV, and their son Prince Albert, and learn of the royal family’s contributions to Hawaiʻi education, healthcare, and culture. We recommend a guided tour for K-12 levels and require that school organizers bring one chaperone for every 10 students.

For tour prices and to make arrangements for your school field trip, please email tour@daughtersofhawaii.org or call (808) 595-6291.

Accessibility

The Palace was built in the nineteenth century, therefore access may not be available for visitors who have difficulties climbing stairs. We are happy to make alternative arrangements for visitors who have difficulty climbing stairs. Please call (808) 595-6291 at least 48 hours prior to arrival to make arrangements.

Facility Rental

WINNER of the “Best of 2016” Wedding Spot Award!

Located in lush Nu‘uanu Valley on the island of O‘ahu, the Queen Emma Summer Palace is the perfect place to hold your meeting, party, wedding or reception. Emmalani Hale, a separate building located next to the palace, provides space for 100-115 people for sit-down eating or entertainment. The Prince Albert Terrace—an uncovered terrace which overlooks a beautifully landscaped park—is also available for rent; this area can be tented, and accommodates 50-80 people.

View Our Rental Options