Ask the Big Kahuna
“Answering the most common visitor questions”
Question:
My wife and I have been to Hawaii several times, the first time in 1979. On that trip we toured a little chapel on Oahu called, I believe, the Waioli Tea Room. We have been back many times since and I’ve asked many people including bus operators and activities desk personnel, but NO ONE remembers such a chapel. I will be back in Hawaii in September of this year and you are my only hope.
Maurice
Response:
Aloha Maurice,
I’m thrilled to be able to direct you to the Waioli Tea Room and Chapel, nestled under the verdant tropical foliage of giant monkeypod trees in Manoa Valley, Honolulu. The Tea Room sits on Salvation Army property and is a favorite spot for many visitors, young and old. Built originally as a classroom in 1922 in a children’s home, it has become a treasured hideaway for gatherings, luncheons and elegant afternoon teas. The structure has been added to the State and National Registries of Historic Places.
The lovely historic chapel has marvelous leaded stained glass windows that were created by a local artist and added in the 1950s. Since early in the 1970s, the chapel has been used quite often for wedding ceremonies.
The Tea Room is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. for 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The address of the Tea Room is 2950 Manoa Road.
Of historic interest is the grass hut on the grounds, believed to be the island retreat “home” of writer Robert Louis Stevenson. The hut is also believed to be the playhouse of the young Princess Kaiulani, then heir apparent to the Hawaiian monarchy.
Enjoy your visit,
Big Kahuna