Trip ideas while visiting Hawaii - The Big Island in Hawaii
Pu’ukohola Heiau, located on the Kohala Coast in Hawaii, is an ancient temple with great historical significance. Built by King Kamehameha I, it served as a sacred place for worship and offerings to the war god, Ku-ka’ili-moku. This impressive lava rock structure is not only a tourist attraction but also continues to be actively used for traditional Hawaiian ceremonies and worship. Visitors can explore the site through a convenient half-mile paved walking trail, which takes them to various points of interest including Mailakini Heiau, Pelekane (a royal courtyard), Hale O Kapune (a submerged heiau), and John Young’s Homestead. John Young, a British sailor stranded on the island in 1790, became an advisor to Kamehameha and his homestead is part of the site. To enrich their understanding, visitors can visit the visitor center, where they can watch informative videos, browse exhibits, and explore a small museum dedicated to the history of Pu’ukohola Heiau.
Visitors who are interested in Hawaii’s history find this national park extremely popular. They have shared positive feedback about their experience, particularly mentioning the educational aspect of learning about the temple’s construction and the helpfulness of the park rangers providing information.