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Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Suitable for:
Everyone
Insider tip or tourist spot?
Known and overrun
TouriSpot
Insider Tip
Time needed:
3 hours
Optimal arrival time:
Does not matter
Cost:
inexpensive
Suitable for:
Everyone
Insider tip or tourist spot?
Known and overrun
TouriSpot
Insider Tip
Time needed:
3 hours
Optimal arrival time:
Does not matter
Cost:
inexpensive

Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park - description

In the "City of Refuge", as the Hawaiian tongue twister is also called, the visitor finds one of the most authentic cultural sites in Hawaii. The 73-acre facility with its attached Visitor Center provides interesting insights into the culture and way of life of ancient Hawaii. The park is open daily from 7:00 am - 8:00 pm and the Visitor Center is open daily from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Admission is $5 per vehicle. The park is located on the west side of the island, about 20 minutes from Kona.
From Sunday to Thursday, cultural demonstrations also take place on the grounds. Often Hawaiian handicraft techniques are offered - from weaving nets to weaving baskets. To avoid large crowds of tourists, it is recommended to visit either in the morning or in the evening hours. Then the site is particularly attractive at sunset.

In Hawaii there were many sacred laws, so-called "Kapu". For example, women and men were not allowed to eat together or certain foods were forbidden. If these laws were broken, they were sometimes even punished with the death penalty. Unless you managed to lose your pursuers and make it to a sacred place of refuge (puuhonua). There, one was given absolution in a ceremony and could then return to society. By the way, the word "taboo" was derived from "kapu" in German.

Armed with a map, embark on a solo exploration of the park and discover sights such as the Great Wall, a 3-meter high and 5-meter wide wall. Fierce wooden "kiis" guard the Hale o Keawe Heiau, a sacred temple that houses the bones of 23 tribal chiefs. The coastline, made of black lava rock, forms a natural barrier - so the site was inaccessible by sea to those who broke the kapu. From the site, on the right, you will also discover Honaunau Beach, one of the best snorkeling spots on the islands.

What we say

Florian
You should plan your visit to combine a visit to the historic site with some snorkeling at nearby Honaunau Beach. The rocky shoreline is one of the best snorkeling spots in all of Hawaii. Access to the ocean is via 2 naturally grown steps made of lava rock, called "Two Step". The underwater world with colorful fish and Green Sea Turtles is magnificent. Because of this, however, it is also relatively crowded. Just like the park itself. It is already very touristy and crowded. Therefore, you should plan outside the rush hours, then you escape large crowds, even in the water!
Our checklist & tips:
  • Do not forget snorkeling equipment
  • Very charming to the sunset
  • Water sandals protect from sea urchins and sharp lava rocks
  • Do not visit during peak hours!

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Map and contact data

State Hwy 160, Hōnaunau, HI 96726
Longitude: -155.91093299574226
Latitude: 19.422955061522913

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