St. Benedict's Painted Church: A Spiritual and Artistic Landmark on The Big Island
St. Benedict's Painted Church is a hidden gem on The Big Island that seamlessly combines spirituality and artistry. This quaint church, also known as the Painted Church, offers visitors a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond the traditional sightseeing.
A Feast for the Eyes: Intricate Frescoes and Murals
One of the main highlights of St. Benedict's Painted Church is its stunning frescoes and murals that adorn the interior walls. These intricate artworks depict scenes from the Bible, showcasing the talent and dedication of the artists who brought them to life. Each corner of the church tells a story, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and symbolism behind the paintings.
- The vibrant colors and detailed brushwork create a captivating ambiance that transports visitors to a different time and place.
- From the ceiling to the floor, every inch of St. Benedict's Painted Church is a testament to the power of artistic expression in conveying spiritual teachings.
A Place of Reflection and Contemplation
Visitors to St. Benedict's Painted Church not only marvel at the beauty of the artwork but also find a sense of peace and tranquility in the space. The church exudes a calming atmosphere that encourages reflection and contemplation, making it a perfect place for quiet meditation and prayer.
- Whether you are a religious pilgrim seeking solace or simply a curious traveler looking for a moment of serenity, St. Benedict's Painted Church offers a welcoming sanctuary for all.
- The gentle light filtering through the stained glass windows adds to the ethereal ambiance, creating a truly divine experience for visitors.
Preserving History and Heritage
St. Benedict's Painted Church is not just a tourist attraction; it is a living testament to the history and heritage of The Big Island. The church stands as a symbol of faith and resilience, having weathered the test of time and natural disasters. Through careful preservation efforts, the church continues to stand strong, welcoming visitors from near and far to witness its beauty and significance.
- Every visitor who steps through the doors of St. Benedict's Painted Church contributes to the preservation of this cultural landmark, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its beauty and significance.
- The church serves as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding us of the enduring power of art, faith, and community.
Tours and Experiences for St. Benedict's Painted Church

Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. This Big Island Tour Bundle comes with five socially-distanced audio driving tours:
• South Island Epic Coastal Journey (8-10 hour tour)
• North Island Jungle Adventure Loop (8-10 hour tour)
• Kona Big Kahuna Loop (4-6 hour tour)
• Kohala Coast and Backcountry Tour (3-5 hour tour)
• Volcanoes National Park Tour (6-8 hour tour)
The app uses GPS to give you turn-by-turn navigation to historic sites, popular attractions, world-class beaches and scenic hikes.
All Shaka Guide Tours...
• Never expire - take them multiple times or buy in advance
• Work 100% offline - no data or wifi necessary
• Let you take the tour when you want - download the tour and choose the day that works best for you
*Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

WANT TO SEE HAWAIIAN SEA TURTLES!
Cruise ship-friendly tour is approx 5 hr long. This is truly a wonderful experience showing all the highlights in and around Kailua-Kona. Explore historical cultural sights, our famous Kona coffee, scenic sights, and best of all our local wildlife!
Departure times may be adjusted to fit your ship's arrival & departure.

Come with us as we explore the fascinating volcanic landscape looping around the southern coast of the Big Island!
Shaka Guide is your perfect companion with turn-by-turn directions, information on what to do & see, and a truckload of interesting stories and Hawaiian legends of this amazing island!
Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads.
Why you need it:
✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline
✅ Much cheaper than a tour bus at only $19.99 for lifetime access
✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up
✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!)
✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way (and some corny joke's that might make you laugh)
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

A fun bite-sized loop tour that begins in North Kona and takes you down south to Puuhonua and back!
Hear cool stories about King Kamehameha, Captain Cook, and the sacred rituals of ancient Hawaii.
Shaka Guide is your local guide with turn-by-turn directions, information on what to do & see, and a ton of fun stories.
Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads.
Why you need it:
✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline
✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up
✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!)
✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Step off your cruise and step back in time on this tour of historic Kona. On this cruise ship excursion, we share Kailua-Kona’s history to set the stage for your trip back in time to Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park – an ancient Hawaiian village of refuge for kapu (law) breakers.
We show you a beautiful scenic view overlooking Kealakekua Bay – an underwater preserve and where a monument to Captain Cook stands. Here, he sailed in and was received as the god, Lono, yet he proved to be a mere mortal and was slain. Visit the Painted Church – the tiny church Belgian priests painted to be a grand cathedral. Experience history as rich as the brew at the Kona coffee factory we visit as well.

Join us for an unforgettable exploration that tantalizes the senses and leaves you with a greater appreciation for both cultural heritage and the renowned coffee of the region. Our immersive tour invites you to wander through the verdant coffee fields, where the story of Kona coffee unfolds from cultivation to the perfect cup. As the aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingers, we transition to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park, the City of Refuge, a sanctuary steeped in ancient Hawaiian history. Explore sacred temples, ancient dwellings, and the serene coastal landscape, where the past comes alive. From the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans to the echoes of the past, this tour promises an enriching blend of flavors and narratives, creating a memorable exploration of both Kona’s coffee heritage and the cultural significance that graces the national historic parks.