• Pu`ukohola Heiau

    Pu`ukoholā Heiau

    National Historic Site Hawai'i

Traffic & Travel Tips

Driving on the Mamalahoa Highway on the Island of Hawai'i.

  • Island Driving

When visitors come to the Island from the U.S. Mainland or from other countries, many do not take into account the long driving distances involved in driving on the Island. The Island of Hawai'i is the largest island in the United States, it contains no interstate highways, speed limits are never over 55mph (usually only 35-45mph) and traffic can often be backed up during peak travel hours.

  • Planning for the Unexpected

  • Be aware that military convoys, triathlons, road construction and special community events (parades, festivals, etc) can often cause traffic to come to a standstill. It is also advisable to check public transportation schedules ahead of time and to book car/van rentals well in advance. Some visitors arrive on the Island only to find that all the Island's rental vehicles are already reserved.

  • Island Time

Visitors will often notice that nothing happens fast on the Island...so slow down and adjust to "Island Time." Relax and enjoy the journey!

Did You Know?

Pu'ukohola Heiau and Mailekini Heiau

There are actually three temples at Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site: Pu'ukohola Heiau, which was built by Kamehameha, Mailekini Heiau, which was converted into a fort with cannons and Hale o Kapuni Heiau, which was a temple dedicated to the worship of sharks. More...