Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

A place like no other near Hawaii - The Big Island in Hawaii

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

In the past, Hawaiians had a special place where they could go if they broke sacred laws called kapu. This place was known as pu’uhonua, which means “place of refuge” in Hawaiian. If someone went to this place, they could avoid being punished with death. It was located on the west coast of Hawai’i. Nowadays, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is a 180-acre historical landmark where people can learn about this important part of Hawaiian history. The park is maintained by the National Park Service, but it is still used by lineal descendants as a religious site.

Hawaii vacationers, particularly those interested in history and ancestral traditions, love visiting this popular attraction. It showcases beautiful temples, intricate ki’i (symbolic representations of Hawaiian gods and deities, usually made of wood or stone), and abundant honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) that inhabit the ocean around the area. Two Step, situated near Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park but not part of it, offers excellent snorkeling opportunities in Hawaii. Remember, this spot is highly regarded for snorkeling but isn’t actually inside the national park.