We did the docent led tour and that is what I would recommend. While a lot of the information is written on the pamphlet the docent really explained things well. She was a wealth of information. It was interesting to learn about the Hawaiian Royalty. The rooms have been nicely preserved and the grounds are beautiful.

While this is not terribly elaborate or ornate, the docents did an excellent job of providing detailed history of the Hawaiian royal families who used this as a summer home. The Palace was originally built of lava rocks and is exceptionally sturdy. Beautiful koa wood furnishings throughout, family portraits, and some clothing upstairs and interesting artifacts on the main floor. Beautiful grounds located right on the ocean and easily accessible in Kailua-Kona on the main street. Walk don't drive as the parking rates are ridiculously high.

My wife and I arrived just before 2:30pm. I had booked this time slot for the palace tour online, earlier that morning. That worked out perfectly. You take off your shoes before entry. You can proceed in socks, or provided cloth booties. You are given a laminated informational sheet to follow off of as you tour the palace. The docent told us the best direction to follow, as you went through the 2 floors of the palace. The palace is small, but it is quite beautiful. Plenty of interesting items to see, and information to read. I really enjoyed it.