Paniolo Heritage Center

Kohala & Waimea

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The Paniolo Preservation Society is developing this museum at Pukalani Stables, where Parker Ranch once bred horses. The exhibits are a little chaotic, but engaging – you'll see photos of famous old cowboys, examples of unique local saddles, and a section dedicated to local female riders and their billowing pa'u skirts.The real reward is the personal touch: staffers are happy to talk story about paniolo (cowboy) history and the legacy of ranching in this corner of Hawaii.

Want farmers-market goods with your ranching history? Both the Waimea MidWeek Market and Kamuela Farmers Market are held at the stables.

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Nearby Kohala & Waimea attractions

1. Hawaiian Cowboy Memorial

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This large bronze sculpture by Fred Fellows, a spirited symbol of paniolo (cowboy) culture, depicts Ikua Purdy, the Parker Ranch cowboy who won the World…

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The lobby of this working office is open to the public. See models of the twin 10m (33ft) Keck telescopes, fascinating photos and a telescope trained on…

3. Church Row

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Home to Christians, Buddhists and Mormons, Church Row is a living history of religious life on the island. There are several noteworthy, if humble,…

4. Imiola Congregational Church

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Waimea's first Christian church originated as a grass hut in 1830 and was built entirely of koa in 1857. Here lies the grave of missionary Lorenzo Lyons,…

5. Ke Ola Mau Loa Church

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A much-photographed, historic Hawaiian church with an eye-catching green steeple. There are no set times when the church is open, although Sunday mornings…

6. Waimea Nature Park

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Not to be confused with adjacent Waimea Park, this is a 10-acre green space in the center of town with picnic tables and free wi-fi. It's also a native…

7. Isaacs Art Center

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Set in a meticulously relocated 1915 schoolhouse, this series of bright, charming galleries displays a diverse collection of local and international fine…

8. Rare Hawaiian Honey Company

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This sales and tasting room specializes in locally produced 'white honey,' which resembles a pearlescent butter. It's not cheap (an 8oz jar costs $15 to …