Pu’uhonua O Honaunau – Appreciating Beautiful Hawaiian Culture

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is the must-visit spot on the Big Island to learn about centuries old Hawaiian culture and to see beautifully carved tikis. Each time we visit we learn something new, and I’m always amazed how beautiful this spot is. We’ve come here many times, with friends, with our kids and it’s always a special experience. Here you’ll find all the information you need to plan a visit, learn some history and stay safe from the wild goats (I’m not kidding). You’ll be so glad you added Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park to your trip.

If you have any questions about visiting, about planning a Kona Coast trip or in general have inquiries about visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more, especially if it means helping somebody put together a meaningful Hawaii trip.

What to Expect at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

As you set foot in Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, it’s like you’re being transported back in time. This historic slice of paradise on the Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just another pretty beach – it’s a living, breathing testament to centuries of Hawaiian culture and tradition, now managed by the National Park Service. From the moment you arrive, you’ll start to see why Pu’uhonua O Honaunau is so special.

The park’s name itself, “Pu’uhonua,” meaning “place of refuge,” hints at its significance in Hawaiian history. As you wander through the meticulously preserved grounds, you’ll learn that this was once a sanctuary for those who broke kapu (sacred laws) or fled from battle. If somebody could get themselves here to the place of refuge, they would be allowed to live. Today, it serves as a refuge of a different kind, a place for visitors and kamaaina to learn about Hawaiin cultural heritage.

There are trails to walk, exhibits and demonstrations about Hawaiian crafts and culture, and some of the most beautiful coastal landscape on the Big Island. I love visiting Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. This place has quite a bit more to see than at Pu’ukohala Heiau National Historic Site further north on the Kona Coast.

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau’s Kii: an Incredible Tiki Exhibit

One of the most iconic sights or items in Hawaii, and probably what most people picture when they think about Native Hawaii culture, is the tradition of kii carvings. “What’s a kii?” Kii is actually the Hawaiian word for the Polynesian work “tiki.” Other Polynesian cultures also carve figures and they’re called tikis. As you become more familiar with the Hawaiian language and culture, you’ll see that there is no “T” in the alphabet, hence the Hawaiian translation of tiki comes out as kii.

Now, let’s talk about those tikis / kii! Prepare to be amazing by the intricately carved wooden statues that stand guard throughout the park. These aren’t souvenir shop tikis, but magnificent creations. They are the handiwork of master craftsmen, each telling a unique story of Native Hawaiian mythology and beliefs.

As you meander along the palm-fringed pathways, you’ll encounter an array of other impressive structures. The Great Wall, a massive 1,000-foot long, 10-foot high barrier built entirely of lava rock without mortar, is a testament to the engineering prowess of ancient Hawaiians. And let’s not forget the royal grounds, where you can imagine the ali’i (chiefs) of old holding court or gathering people during times of war.

Things to Do at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau NHP

There are quite a few things to do at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau. In addition to the famous kii/tiki carvings there are lots of other exhibits and quite a lot of space to explore on foot. You’ll find canoe carving, presentations, lots of things to read, and some amazing tidepools. To make the most of your visit, consider joining one of the ranger-led tours. These knowledgeable guides bring the park’s history to life with fascinating stories and historic insights. Here are the things to do at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau:

• visitor center
• ranger presentations
• canoe and carving stations and demonstrations
• walk the Royal Grounds trail
• explore the tidepools beyond the heiau sites
• enjoy a picnic (designated area at the end of the access road)

As you head through the Royal Grounds of Pu’uhonua O Honaunau, stay on the trail but observe the palms and pools all around. You’ll pass by quite a few kii carvings as you reach the Hale o Keawe and the heiau. This is where you’ll find the largest collection of tiki carvings and they are amazing. Beyond the structures are the tidepools.

When you explore the lava rock tidepools, be cautious and pay attention to both your footing and the waves. You’re not permitted to get into the tidepools or disturb the wildlife, but you can enjoy the walk and the beautiful creatures you’ll see along the way. Be careful when the tide starts to come in because the waves can be big!

Can I Swim at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau?

“The cove at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau is so beautiful. Can I snorkel there?” No, you cannot swim or snorkel here. There is the most beautiful cove on the whole of the Big Island right here, but this is a sacred space and is protected both for the history and the ecology of the area. The adjacent Honaunau Bay offers some of the best snorkeling on the island if you like, but you cannot access it (even though you can see it) from Pu’uhonua O Honaunau.

If you would like to go snorkeling in the bay via Honaunau Beach, you’ll need to leave the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau NHP parking area and drive up the hill, parking along the side of the road. Pay attention to parking restrictions and do not block any driveways.

Wild Goats at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau

Something unexpected at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau is actually wildlife on shore. You’ll need to keep an eye out for the park’s most unexpected residents – the wild goats! These mischievous creatures might add an element of surprise to your visit. Don’t worry though, as they’re more interested in munching on grass than bothering visitors. If you’re having lunch at the picnic areas you will need to stay alert though, as this is where the goat tend to hang out most and where you may meet them.

Where is Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park Located?

Now that you’re ready to experience Pu’uhonua O Honaunau for yourself, let’s talk logistics. Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, aka the Kona Coast, making it easily accessible for most visitors staying in either Kailua-Kona or Captain Cook. If you’re driving the Mamalahoa Highway toward the South Shore and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you’ll be passing Pu’uhonua O Honaunau NHP, so it’s very easy to add it to your Big Island itinerary.

The park is open daily, and admission is charged, but if you have a National Parks Pass your entrance fees are covered.