Puukohola Heiau

Overlooking the harbor at Kawaihae, Puukohola Heiau is a massive stone temple raised by Kamehameha the Great. A prophecy told that if he built a temple dedicated to the war god Kukailimoku on the Hill of the Whale, he would rule all of the islands. Thousands of workers are said to have passed stones hand to hand over miles to build it. Once the temple was dedicated, Kamehameha went on to unify the islands, and the site stands as one of the most important monuments in Hawaiian history.

The National Park Service manages the site. A small visitor center shows historical exhibits, and short trails lead to the heiau, the ruins of a nearby chief's residence and a submerged shrine in the bay. The landscape is dry and windswept, with a view to Maui's Haleakala on clear days. Rangers sometimes lead talks that explain the significance of the temple and its connection to Kamehameha's rise.

Visit early to avoid heat, as shade is limited. Bring sun protection and water. Walking is short and mostly level, so most visitors manage it comfortably. Respect the heiau by staying on marked trails and not touching walls.

The site is only a few minutes from Hapuna Beach and the Kohala resorts, making it an easy cultural counterpoint to a beach day. Combine it with Hawi and Kapaau, where the Kamehameha statue stands, for a themed day exploring the king's legacy. Check hours before you go and allow about an hour.

Before you leave the site, take the short walk toward the shore, where you can see the Hale o Kapuni, an underwater heiau dedicated to sharks that is said to lie beneath the waves. The scale of the main heiau becomes clearer as you stand beside its walls, which rise in rough terraces more than 200 feet long.

Imagine the hand-to-hand relay of stones that built it, and the political weight of the ceremonies held here. Interpretive signs and the visitor center film help set the scene, and rangers are usually glad to answer questions about Kamehameha, the prophecy and the later history of Kawaihae Harbor.

If you visit on a windy afternoon, hold onto hats and maps; Kawaihae is one of the island's breeziest corners. The nearby harbor has casual places for lunch and a small gallery or two, making the stop an easy half-day when combined with Hapuna Beach.