Spalding Monument Kauai

Kauai’s Spalding Monument is an interesting historical site, offering panoramic views and insight into the island’s sugar plantation past.

Monument pays homage to an important figure in East Kauai’s sugar plantation history.
Though in disrepair, the landmark attracts local residents and tourists seeking a peaceful, out-of-the-way experience.
Parking on the side of the road.
No restrooms or other facilities.
Map: Google Maps

The Spalding Monument, located near Kapaa, stands as a testament to the contributions of a significant figure in Kauai history. In 1876, Colonel Zephaniah Swift Spalding (a Civil War veteran who had served with the 27th Ohio Regiment) and his father-in-law Captain James Makee, purchased a cattle ranch in Kapaa to be used as a sugar plantation. The venture became the Makee Sugar Company, and it established eastern Kauai’s sugar plantation industry.

After Makee’s death in 1879, Spalding also started the Kealia Sugar Plantation, operating the mill until 1916 when he sold a majority share to the Lihue Plantation Company. During his tenure, Spalding developed a new process to refine sugar that kept the mill operating 24 hours a day. Spalding had many business interests in Hawaii, including a venture to develop the first trans-Pacific submarine cable (which was ultimately unsuccessful). Spalding died in 1927 at the age of 89, and in 1930, friends of Spalding erected the monument.

Today, the Colonel Zephaniah Swift Spalding Monument is a quiet and peaceful site, away from the bustling tourist attractions that dot the island. The sunny setting sees rows of towering trees and mountains as a backdrop, and distant ocean views on the horizon. The monument itself is in disrepair and the commemorative plaque is missing. Located about two-and-a-half miles up a country road from Kealia Beach, the monument is enjoyed by local residents and a few curious tourists seeking a place to unwind and relax. Picnics, meditation and book reading are some of the activities we’ve seen at the monument.

The monument was erected at the confluence of two roads used by the sugar cane industry. Now, the two roads are collectively known as Kealia Road. The road connects Kealia Beach and Anahola with an alternate north/south route that comes in handy when the main highway has traffic, accidents or road work. The road from Kealia Beach to the monument is in generally good repair, however, the road from the monument to Anahola is in bad shape with many potholes and sometimes even abandoned cars along the side of the road. Tourists may feel a little uneasy on this section.

The best way to visit the Spalding Monument is to drive from Kealia Beach to the monument. The drive itself is scenic, with nice views of cattle and Kalalea Mountain (King Kong Mountain) along the way. You could also bicycle or hike along the road to the monument from Kealia Beach, but bring plenty of water and sun protection as this area has little shade.

NOTE: In the general area is a dangerous waterfall located on private property that has been closed to the public. If you park on the road a short distance away from the monument you might have the local police bearing down on you with the suspicion you are planning to make an illegal hike to the waterfall.