The painted church in the south Kona district (Hōnaunau) is officially called the st. Benedict roman catholic church. It was built in 1842 in Kapalelua, and was moved to its present location around 1880.  It’s called  “painted church” because of an extremely industrious Belgian priest (Father Jean (or John) Berchmans Velghe). Father John painted the interior of the church with 3D depictions from the bible and the lives of the saints. These were very important teaching tools in a time when many people couldn’t read and write.

The painted church overlooks the beautiful and historic Kealakekua Bay and is a very scenic drive away from two of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island: Two steps and Captain cook. It is also very close to the Pu’uhonua o honaunau national historic park (the place of refuge).A good stop by on the way to the City of Refuge.