The Kona Hawaii Temple is the second temple built in Hawaii and has served members throughout the Big Island and neighboring islands since its dedication in 2000. Located in Kailua-Kona, the temple overlooks the Pacific Ocean and is known for its tropical landscaping, white marble exterior, and peaceful island setting. It was also the sixth temple built in Polynesia, continuing the Church's long history in the Pacific.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Kona Hawaii Temple on May 7, 1998. Groundbreaking services were held on March 13, 1999, with Elder John B. Dickson presiding. Following a three-day public open house, President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on January 23–24, 2000, making it the 70th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In October 2023, the temple closed for a major renovation. The project includes expanding the building from approximately 9,500 square feet to more than 12,000 square feet, updating the exterior, and improving the temple grounds. Construction is ongoing, and open house and rededication dates will be announced once the renovation is complete.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Kona Hawaii Temple's most distinctive features is its incredible location. The temple sits on a hillside overlooking Kailua-Kona and the Pacific Ocean, just a few miles from the Kona International Airport. Towering palm trees, tropical gardens, and a terraced water feature create one of the most beautiful settings of any temple in the Church.
The temple's exterior is clad in bright white marble, giving it a striking appearance against Hawaii's black lava rock landscape and blue skies. Its elegant single attached spire complements the simple, peaceful design that reflects the beauty of the islands.
Another interesting distinction is the temple district it serves. In addition to members living on the Big Island, the Kona Hawaii Temple also serves members from Maui, making it an important temple for multiple Hawaiian islands until the future Kahului Hawaii Temple is completed.
Visiting the Temple
The Kona Hawaii Temple is located at 75-230 Kalani Street in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The temple is currently closed for renovation. During the renovation, a temporary visitors' center has opened on the temple grounds where guests can learn about the renovation and the temple's history. Once construction is complete, the Church will announce public open house and rededication dates.
Fun Facts
- Second temple built in Hawaii.
- Sixth temple built in Polynesia.
- 70th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on May 7, 1998.
- Groundbreaking held on March 13, 1999.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on January 23–24, 2000.
- Built on a 7.02-acre property.
- Approximately 12,325 square feet following the current renovation.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Currently undergoing a major renovation that began in 2023.
Final Thoughts
The Kona Hawaii Temple is a treasured house of the Lord for members throughout Hawaii. Its breathtaking ocean views, tropical setting, and beautiful architecture make it one of the most memorable temples in the Church. As its renovation nears completion, the temple will continue blessing generations of Latter-day Saints while standing as a symbol of faith in the Pacific.
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