Iolani Palace

Overview

Iolani Palace is the only royal palace on American soil and a National Historic Landmark. It was the royal residence of the Hawaiian monarchy until 1893.

It is a symbol of Hawaiian history and culture, showcasing the legacy of the Hawaiian monarchy.

Historical Site Cultural Attraction

Location

Address

364 S. King St., Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Neighborhood: Downtown Honolulu

Coordinates

21.306900, -157.857600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$25

Children

$6 (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild and pleasant

• beautiful gardens
• spring tours

summer

hot and humid

• extended summer hours
• outdoor activities

autumn

cool and comfortable

• fall colors
• harvest events

winter

cooler and slightly wetter

• holiday decorations
• winter tours

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring a valid ID
Check the weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle printed or digital tickets

seasonal

light jacket for cooler months umbrella or rain jacket

not allowed

large bags or backpacks food and drinks drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• some walking and stairs involved

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

credit/debit cards, cash

Currency

US Dollars (USD)

Typical Costs

entry $25

parking $5

guided tour $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes, light clothing for warmer months, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing, hats inside the palace

Booking Tips

• at least 1 week
• official website
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Notes

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Notes

Digital Services

Mobile App

Iolani Palace Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guides, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Palace grounds

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

taxi

$40-$50 25 min

public_transport

$2.50 45 min

rideshare

$25-$35 25 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking

bus

$2.50 15 min

taxi

$10-$15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a significant part of Hawaiian history and culture, showcasing the legacy of the Hawaiian monarchy.

Historical Significance: The palace was the royal residence of the Hawaiian monarchy and is a symbol of Hawaiian sovereignty and resilience.

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning for a more peaceful experience and to avoid crowds
The guided tours led by local historians provide deep insights into Hawaiian history
The palace gift shop offers unique Hawaiian souvenirs and books

Local Recommendations

• Try the shave ice at a nearby local stand
• Ask for the guided tour led by a local historian
• Visit the nearby coffee shop for a taste of Hawaiian coffee

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Aloha

thank_you Mahalo

where_is Ia 'oe 'eiho

how_much Pehea ke kipa

beautiful Nani

ticket Kipikipe

Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian, Japanese, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance with the palace in the background

Best Time: Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)

Tips: Low angle for the grand entrance

Result: Stunning architectural shot

#IolaniPalace #HistoricalHawaii #RoyalPalace

Throne Room

Best Time: Anytime during opening hours

Tips: Wide angle to capture the entire room

Result: Opulent interior shot

#ThroneRoom #RoyalHistory #HawaiianHeritage

Palace grounds with the gardens

Best Time: Early morning for soft light

Tips: Use the garden paths for leading lines

Result: Beautiful and serene landscape

#PalaceGardens #HawaiiBeauty #NatureAndArchitecture

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated indoor areas

prohibited areas exhibitions with sensitive artifacts, restricted sections

flash photography not allowed in most indoor areas

commercial photography requires special permission

drone policy prohibited without prior approval

tripod policy allowed in outdoor areas only, requires permission for indoor use

selfie sticks allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors

Nearby Attractions

State Capitol

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Historical Site

King Kamehameha Statue

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Monument

Hawaii State Art Museum

Distance: 400m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Honolulu Museum of Art

Distance: 2.5km

Walking: 30 min