Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park | Kailua Kona

Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a significant cultural and historical site located on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the Kona district, near Hōnaunau Bay. This park is one of the most important and well-preserved cultural landmarks in Hawaii, offering visitors a chance to explore ancient Hawaiian traditions and history.

Overview of Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

• Location: The park is situated along the southern coast of the Big Island, about 30 miles (48 km) south of Kailua-Kona. It is accessible by Hwy 160, located near the village of Hōnaunau.
• Historical Significance: Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau was once a place of refuge for those who broke ancient Hawaiian laws (kapu). It was also an important site for royal ceremonies, making it a key location in understanding the cultural and social structure of ancient Hawaiian society.
• Meaning of the Name: The name "Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau" translates to "Place of Refuge of Hōnaunau", referring to the sacred sanctuary where individuals could seek protection and forgiveness.

Main Features of Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Sacred Hawaiian Site:

• Pu'uhonua: In ancient Hawaii, the Pu'uhonua was a place where people who had violated the kapu (taboos) could seek asylum. If they reached the refuge, they would be forgiven and allowed to return to their communities without facing punishment. This was particularly important in a society where breaking the kapu could result in death.
• Royal Grounds: The park is also home to the royal grounds, which served as a residence for Hawaiian royalty. These grounds include sacred temples, ceremonial sites, and ancient structures that were integral to Hawaiian spiritual and social life.

Key Features Within the Park:

• Hōnaunau Bay: The park is located along the shores of Hōnaunau Bay, offering serene views of the ocean. The bay was historically used by the Hawaiian people for fishing and other cultural practices.
• The Great Wall: One of the most prominent features of the park is the great stone wall that separates the sacred area from the outside world. This wall was constructed to protect the refuge and is made of large stones, some weighing hundreds of pounds.
• The Royal Grounds and Hale o Keawe Heiau: The Hale o Keawe Heiau is an ancient Hawaiian temple located within the park. It was dedicated to Keaweʻīkekahiali'iokamoku, a high-ranking chief, and housed his remains. The site is a reminder of the Hawaiian reverence for the kapu system and their deep connection to the spiritual realm.

The Pu'uhonua (Place of Refuge):

• The Place of Refuge itself is a serene and sacred area where individuals would seek protection. The park allows visitors to learn about the sacredness of this site and its role in the Hawaiian justice system.
• Today, visitors can walk through the ancient structures, feel the spiritual atmosphere, and imagine what it might have been like for someone seeking refuge here.

Reconstructed Structures:

• The park includes reconstructed Hawaiian structures, including thatched huts that demonstrate traditional Hawaiian architecture. These structures serve as a visual representation of how the ancient Hawaiians lived and built their homes.
• There are also examples of outrigger canoes, which were essential to Hawaiian culture for fishing and traveling between the islands.

Cultural Programs:

• The park offers educational programs, cultural demonstrations, and traditional Hawaiian activities. Visitors can participate in or watch traditional Hawaiian crafts, such as lei making, weaving, and storytelling, which are integral to preserving Hawaiian culture.
• There are also guided tours available, providing in-depth knowledge of the site’s history, the Hawaiian justice system, and the significance of the park to the island’s heritage.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty:

• The park is not only a historical site but also offers scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy walking trails along the coastline, where they might see sea turtles basking on the shore or in the waters of Hōnaunau Bay.
• The bay is also home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling.

Things to Do and See at Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Cultural Demonstrations:

• Engage with cultural demonstrations that take place throughout the day. These include traditional Hawaiian music, hula dances, and ancient practices that reflect Hawaiian values and traditions.

Snorkeling at Hōnaunau Bay:

• Hōnaunau Bay, located within the park, is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. It is a great spot for snorkeling and enjoying Hawaii’s underwater ecosystems.

Learn About Hawaiian History:

• The park offers a variety of interpretive displays and exhibits that explain the significance of Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau in Hawaiian history. Visitors can learn about the kapu system, traditional Hawaiian law, and the culture that sustained this refuge for centuries.

Guided Tours:

• Take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of the site. Knowledgeable rangers or cultural practitioners provide detailed explanations about the temple structures, the royal grounds, and the significance of the great stone wall.

Walking Trails:

• Explore the easy walking trails within the park, which provide scenic views of the coastline and offer opportunities to learn more about the natural environment of the area. These trails are also a great way to explore the park’s lush surroundings.

Best Time to Visit

Year-Round: The park is open year-round and offers a variety of experiences during each season. The dry season (April to October) offers ideal weather for outdoor activities, including walking and snorkeling. However, the site’s spiritual and historical ambiance can be experienced in any weather.

Cultural Events: Check the park’s schedule for special cultural events, such as Hawaiian festivals and ceremonies, which occur throughout the year.

Access and Facilities

• Entrance: There is a small admission fee for entry to the park, which helps maintain the site and provide educational services.
• Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available near the visitor center and other designated areas.
• Gift Shop: The park also features a gift shop, where visitors can purchase Hawaiian crafts, books, and souvenirs.

Conclusion

Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hawaiian culture, history, and nature. The park offers an opportunity to step back in time and experience the sacredness of ancient Hawaiian traditions, the complexities of their justice system, and the natural beauty of the Big Island. Whether you are walking along the trails, learning about the kapu system, or snorkeling in the clear waters of Hōnaunau Bay, this park provides a rich, immersive experience that connects visitors to Hawaii’s deep cultural and natural heritage.