A delightful little church to see while you’re exploring Hawaii (Big) Island is the Painted Church in Captain Cook. In contrast to the rather plain white, rectangular exterior, the interior walls and ceiling are ornately painted. It’s a real wow moment when you walk through the doors.
Brief History of the Painted Church at Captain Cook
The actual name of this lovely little church is St. Benedict’s Catholic Church. It was built in 1899 by a Belgian priest, Father John Velghe. In addition to his construction skills, Father Velghe is also credited with creating the colorful interior paintings. The paintings were designed to help him teach Bible stories. For more information, see the church’s website.
How to include the Painted Church in your Big Island sightseeing plans
The Painted Church at Captain Cook is a convenient stop near Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, which is also known as the Place of Refuge. We list a stop at this painted church in day five of our Hawaii Big Island vacation itinerary.
Note that according to the church’s website, this church is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.
How to get to the Painted Church in Captain Cook
The Painted Church is located south of Kona in the Captain Cook region of Hawaii (Big) Island. The address is 84-5140 Painted Church Road, Captain Cook. You can use this Google Map link to get directions.
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Have you seen this Painted Church on your visits to the Big Island?
Sheila Beal
