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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesHawaiiPuʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

US
Historical Site·Quiet, Reverent, Historic, Scenic
Ceremony at Puʻukoholā Heiau, Painting by Herb Kane
Photo by from Nps
Pu'ukoholā Heiau on a clear hot and sunny day in the district of Kawaihae.
Photo by from Nps
Sunrise with a bright orange red glow rising above Pu'ukoholā Heiau.
Photo by from Nps
Warriors dressed in traditional attire presenting war god Kū on top of Pu'ukoholā Heiau during Ho'oku'ikahi Ceremony.
Photo by from Nps
Ho'okupu offerings placed on top of the lele during Ho'oku'ikahi ceremony.
Photo by from Nps
Ceremony at Puʻukoholā Heiau, Painting by Herb Kane
Photo by from Nps
Pu'ukoholā Heiau on a clear hot and sunny day in the district of Kawaihae.
Photo by from Nps
Sunrise with a bright orange red glow rising above Pu'ukoholā Heiau.
Photo by from Nps
Warriors dressed in traditional attire presenting war god Kū on top of Pu'ukoholā Heiau during Ho'oku'ikahi Ceremony.
Photo by from Nps
Ho'okupu offerings placed on top of the lele during Ho'oku'ikahi ceremony.
Photo by from Nps
Paved half mile loop trail (starting from the visitor center) will takes you to the base of Pu'ukoholā Heiau, passing Mailekini Heiau to Pelekane Bay, and right a long the coastal trail back to the visitor center.
Photo by from Nps

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is a cornerstone of Hawaiian history, preserving the massive dry-stone temple commissioned by King Kamehameha I to facilitate the unification of the islands. Located on the Kohala Coast, the site showcases the incredible engineering of the 'Temple on the Hill of the Whale,' constructed without mortar using stones passed hand-to-hand over miles. Visitors can explore the grounds, which include the remains of a submerged heiau dedicated to shark gods and the site of a former royal residence. The atmosphere is one of quiet reverence, offering a powerful connection to Hawaii's ancient past and its spiritual traditions. It is an essential stop for anyone looking to understand the cultural heritage and royal legacy of the Big Island.

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is a cornerstone of Hawaiian history, preserving the massive dry-stone temple commissioned by King Kamehameha I to facilitate the unification of the islands. Located on the Kohala Coast, the site showcases the incredible engineering of the 'Temple on the Hill of the Whale,' constructed without mortar using stones passed hand-to-hand over miles. Visitors can explore the grounds, which include the remains of a submerged heiau dedicated to shark gods and the site of a former royal residence. The atmosphere is one of quiet reverence, offering a powerful connection to Hawaii's ancient past and its spiritual traditions. It is an essential stop for anyone looking to understand the cultural heritage and royal legacy of the Big Island.

You might want to ask

Address
Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
Websitenps.gov

Highlights

  • Massive dry-stone temple built without mortar

  • Deep connection to King Kamehameha I's unification of Hawaii

  • Stunning coastal views overlooking the Pacific

  • Remains of a submerged heiau dedicated to shark gods

Best For

History enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture.

Occasion Tags

Educational, Tourists, History Buffs

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Location

Hawaii, United States