Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site | Waimea

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks on the Big Island of Hawaii. Located in the Kohala District, the site is significant both for its association with King Kamehameha I and for its role in ancient Hawaiian religious and political life. It is a sacred place that attracts visitors interested in Hawaiian history, culture, and the legacy of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Historical Significance

King Kamehameha I and the Heiau:

• Pu'ukohola Heiau (translated as "Hill of the Whale Temple") was built between 1790 and 1791 by King Kamehameha I, the first monarch to unite the Hawaiian Islands. This heiau was dedicated to the war god Kukailimoku as part of Kamehameha's effort to fulfill a prophecy that he would unite the islands under his rule.
• The construction of the heiau was a significant religious and political act. Kamehameha I believed that by dedicating the heiau to Kukailimoku, he would gain the strength and support needed to conquer the other Hawaiian Islands and unite them into a single kingdom. The heiau played a key role in the consolidation of his power.

Religious and Ritual Use:

• Pu'ukohola Heiau was primarily used for religious ceremonies and sacrifices to the god Kukailimoku, who was believed to provide victory in battle. The site was chosen strategically, as it sits atop a hill overlooking the Kohala Coast and offers a commanding view of the surrounding area.
• Kamehameha I believed that the heiau's dedication would bring success in his military campaigns. As part of the dedication, a human sacrifice was reportedly made to the god, marking the significance of the heiau in his mission to unify the islands.
• The heiau was also part of the larger religious and political framework of ancient Hawaiian society, where heiau were used to communicate with the gods and ensure prosperity and success in various endeavors, including warfare, agriculture, and fishing.

The Role of the Heiau in Kamehameha's Conquest:

• After the heiau was completed, Kamehameha I went on to successfully conquer the neighboring islands, fulfilling the prophecy. His unification of the Hawaiian Islands in the early 19th century marked the end of centuries of inter-island conflict and the beginning of the Hawaiian Kingdom under his leadership.

Key Features of Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

The Heiau Structure:

• The most prominent feature of the site is the stone structure of the heiau itself, which was built without the use of mortar. The stones were carefully stacked to form the temple, which once stood as a towering symbol of Kamehameha’s power.
• The heiau is about 224 feet long and 100 feet wide, with walls built from massive stones. Some of the stones are said to have weighed several tons, and the labor required to build the heiau was immense. Despite the passage of time, the heiau remains largely intact and is a stunning example of ancient Hawaiian engineering.

The Nearby Visitor Center:

• The Pu'ukohola Heiau Visitor Center offers exhibits and information about the history of the site, the life of Kamehameha I, and the significance of the heiau in Hawaiian culture. The visitor center includes a museum with displays of artifacts and photos, as well as educational programs and guided tours.
• The center also provides information on the site's natural history and its role in the local environment, showcasing the beauty of the Kohala Coast and surrounding landscape.

The Trail to the Heiau:

• A short trail leads visitors from the visitor center to the heiau itself. The path takes visitors across a rugged and picturesque landscape, offering stunning views of the coastline and the hills that surround the monument.
• Along the trail, there are interpretive signs that explain the history of the site, the significance of the heiau, and the stories of the Hawaiian people who once inhabited the area.

Ahu'ena Heiau:

• Ahu'ena Heiau is another important site in the area, located in Kailua Bay. This heiau was used by Kamehameha I during his reign and was dedicated to Kane, the Hawaiian god of creation and life. After Kamehameha's death, the site became the location of his deification ceremony.
• Though Ahu'ena Heiau is a separate site, it is closely tied to the events and legacy of Pu'ukohola Heiau and represents another crucial chapter in the story of Kamehameha I's reign.

Things to See and Do

Guided Tours and Cultural Programs:

• The National Park Service offers guided tours of the heiau and the surrounding area. These tours provide visitors with in-depth knowledge about the history of Kamehameha I, the construction of the heiau, and the cultural and spiritual significance of the site.
• There are also cultural programs and demonstrations, which may include traditional Hawaiian crafts, hula, or talks on Hawaiian history and cultural practices.

Interpretive Signs:

• Along the walking trail and around the heiau, there are interpretive signs that help visitors understand the historical context of the site. These signs provide valuable information about the construction of the heiau, the importance of the religious rituals, and the role of the site in Kamehameha's rise to power.

Photography and Scenic Views:

• The site offers incredible opportunities for photography, with panoramic views of the coastline and the rugged, volcanic landscape of the Big Island. The heiau itself is an impressive structure, and the surrounding environment adds to the dramatic beauty of the location.

Hiking and Exploration:

• While the main focus of the site is the heiau, visitors can also explore the surrounding area, including Kohala Mountain, which offers additional trails and scenic views. The area's natural beauty, with its stark volcanic landscape and coastal vistas, makes it a great place for hiking and outdoor exploration.

Practical Information

Location:

• Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is located in the Kohala District on the Big Island of Hawaii, about 40 miles north of Kailua-Kona. The monument is situated near the town of Kawaihae.

Opening Hours:

• The site is typically open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, although hours may vary, especially during holidays or special events. It is advisable to check ahead of your visit.

Admission:

• There is an entrance fee for the site, but it is relatively modest. The fee helps support the maintenance and preservation of the historic site.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Pu'ukohola Heiau is generally during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of midday. The weather is typically warm and dry, but the area can get quite hot in the summer months.

What to Bring:

• Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, as the trail to the heiau can be uneven. It is also a good idea to bring sunscreen, water, and hat for sun protection. There are no food or drink vendors on-site, so it’s recommended to bring snacks if needed.

Why Visit Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site?

Cultural and Historical Insight: The site offers an opportunity to learn about one of Hawaii's most important historical figures, King Kamehameha I, and the role of the heiau in his efforts to unify the Hawaiian Islands.

Sacred and Scenic: Pu'ukohola Heiau is a sacred site surrounded by dramatic landscapes. Its historical and spiritual significance is enhanced by its setting, offering visitors a powerful and peaceful experience.

Educational Experience: The monument provides educational opportunities through exhibits, interpretive signs, and guided tours that offer in-depth knowledge of Hawaiian culture, religion, and the history of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Outdoor Adventure: Beyond the historical significance, the site is located in a beautiful and rugged part of Hawaii, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring the natural landscape.

Visiting Pu'ukohola Heiau is a chance to connect with Hawaii’s rich history and experience the island’s culture through one of its most iconic historic sites. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Hawaiian heritage and the story of King Kamehameha I.