Pu`uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Address:Honaunau, Hawaii
Tel: (808) 567-6802

Come seek refuge at the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the west coast of Hawaii, the site where Hawaiians who broke a taboo could flee for refuge. The 420-acre park boasts an astounding view of the ocean, as well as tours of the reconstructed archaeological structures, and outdoor recreation.

The primary structure at the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is the Hale o Keawe Heiau, originally built by the Kona chief Kanuha to house the remains of important chiefs. It is believed that the protective power of the area now designated as the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, emanates from the mana in the bones of the dead chiefs. Lord George Byron stripped and dismantled the site in 1825, and it lay in ruins until the establishment of the City of Refuge National Historical Park in 1955, renamed in 1978 to the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.

The Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is home to a wide variety of activities, including self-guided tours, fishing, hiking, snorkeling and wildlife watching. The self-guided tour of the park covers the Royal Grounds, as well as the Pu'uhonua (city of refuge) itself. Recreational fishing is allowed at the park in compliance with regulations, such as open fishing seasons. Snorkeling among the coral gardens of Honaunau Bay, adjacent to the park, exposes visitors to the pristine waters of coastal Hawaii. Those seeking to further connect to the Hawaii of the past, can walk the two-mile hiking trail in the area of the park. And don't miss the chance to catch a glimpse of the magnificent green sea turtles and native bats.

No food is available at the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, so visitors should pack accordingly or stop for a bite to eat along Highway 11.

To get to the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, travel south from Kailua-Kona towards Volcano on Highway 11, then turn west on Route 160 at the Honaunau Post Office.