The Best Heiau historic sites in Kapaʻa, Hawaii

Hikinaakala Heiau is a historic Hawaiian temple located on Nalu Road in Kapaʻa, Hawaii. This ancient site serves as a park and tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Hawaiian people. The heiau, or temple, is a sacred place where ceremonies and rituals were performed by the native Hawaiians. Visitors can explore the ruins of the heiau, learn about its significance, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of this cultural landmark. Hikinaakala Heiau provides a unique opportunity to connect with the history and traditions of Hawaii while enjoying the natural beauty of the island.

Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park is a unique and culturally rich park located on the windward side of O’ahu in Hawaii. This park is one of the few publicly owned ahupuaʻa, or ancient Hawaiian land divisions, in the state. Spanning nearly 5,300 acres from sea level at Kahana Bay to 2,670 feet at Puʻu Pauao on the Koʻolau mountains, Kahana is known for its lush landscapes and traditional Hawaiian cultural sites. Visitors to the park can explore remnants of Hawaiian culture such as a heiau (religious temple), koʻa (fishing shrines), fishponds, house sites, agricultural terraces, and more. The park also offers two hiking trails, the Kapa’ele’ele Ko’a and Keaniani Lookout Trail, and the Nakoa Trail, both providing scenic views and opportunities to immerse in the natural beauty of the valley.

Poliahu Heiau is a historic Hawaiian temple located on Kuamoo Road in Kapaʻa, Hawaii. This ancient site is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people. The heiau is dedicated to Poliahu, the goddess of snow and ice, and is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and rituals. Visitors can explore the stone structures and learn about the significance of this sacred site through informational displays and guided tours. Immerse yourself in the history and spirituality of Poliahu Heiau as you take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Wailua River State Park, located in Kapaʻa, Hawaii, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The park features a lush river valley with a riverboat cruise that takes visitors to Fern Grotto, a unique fern-covered cave in a tropical garden. Visitors can also take in scenic vistas of the stunning ‘Opaeka‘a Falls and Wailua Falls, as well as the picturesque Wailua River Valley. The park is also home to the Wailua Complex of Heiau, a National Historic Landmark that showcases the remains of heiau (places of worship), pu‘uhonua (places of refuge), and birthstones from ancient Hawaii. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking in the riverside coconut grove, as well as dining and gift shopping at Wailua Marina.

Kohala Kai is a landmark and tourist attraction located on the Akoni Pule Highway in Waimea, Hawaii, United States. It is a shoreline access area with just three parking spaces in front of the gated Kohala Kai development. This spot is perfect for hikers looking to explore the remote northwest shore of the Big Island. The shoreline features lava cliffs, loose rocks, and hiking trails. The best trail starts north of the Kohala Kai entrance and leads to Kapae Gulch, offering stunning views and ancient Hawaiian structures along the way. A map of the hike is available at the parking lot.