Hale O Keawe Heiau - Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park (The City of Refuge), Hawaii

Explore an ancient Hawaiian sanctuary for defeated warriors and taboo violators! Hale o Keawe Heiau's great rock wall refuge is 1,000 feet long and 10 feet high. At its north end, the heiau (temple) holds the bones of 23 Hawaiian chiefs, along with other great archaeological finds including burial sites, old trails, and a section of an ancient village. Built in 1650, this site was originally intended as the burial place of King Kamehameha's ancestor Keawe.

The half million visitors who come here every year enjoy self-guided tours of the 180 acre site, where one can learn about reconstructed thatched huts, canoes, and idols. Those who enjoy nature should keep their eyes peeled for green sea turtles in Keone Ele cove or humpback whales during the winter months. Enjoy a picnic near the shore, shaded by coconut trees or follow the historic 1871 trail where you'll see archeological sites such as temple sites, sledding tracks, and old house sites along with an open lava tube that ends at the face of a sea cliff. Everyone will love the cultural festival held at Hale o Keawe Heiau in June where all can join in games, learn crafts, sample Hawaiian food, and see traditional hula. Remember: the weather here is usually warm and somewhat humid but summer days can be extremely hot, so be prepared to drink a lot of water and to find refuge in the shade. Also, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes for maximum enjoyment.

Hale o Keawe Heiau is located on Honaunau Bay off of Highway 160, about 3.5 miles from the Honaunau Post Office. The whole family will love the natural, mystical, educational, and entertaining aspects of Hale o Keawe Heiau—have fun!