Pu' ukohola Heiau

Under threat from his cousin and rival Keoua Kuahu' ula, Kamehameha 1 gathered up all of his men and transported all of the rocks for this Heiau by hand to the site. The rocks are believed to be from over 20 miles away! Pu' ukohola Heiau measures 224 x 100 feet with 16 to 20 foot walls.

This park not only consists of this Heiau, but a number of other historical sites.

Besides Pu’ukohola, there are two other Heiau’s on site. Mailekini heiau, located below Pu’ukohola is an older heiau that, for awhile was used as a battery by the british. This heiau os must older that Pu’ukohola and is not in as good condition as the larger one.  Below Mailekini is Hale o Kapuni heiau that was built for the shark gods. As recently as the 1950’s, parts of this heiau were still visable.

Today, this heiau is completely submerged in the waters of the Pacific. Located near the site of this heiau is the kikiako’I, or stone leaning post. Just down the hill from the leaning post is Pelekane, or the royal courtyard. All of the above sites can be visited by taking the hiking trail down from the information center parking lot or from the coastal trail beginning in Samuel M. Spencer park to the south.

The park is also home to the former homestead of John Young. This stranded british sailor became a trusted advisor to Kamehameha and is only one of two foreigners buried at the Royal Mausoleum at Nu’uanu, Oahu. Access to the homestead part of the park is via Hwy. 270, which can be crowded at times. Please use caution when pulling off of, or returning to this road.

Please remember that the Kohala coast area is usually very warm with little or no rain. Plenty of sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes and lots of water are always a good idea.