Learn About the Park

Lele platform with ocean in the background

NPS Photo

Pu'ukoholā Heiau, one of the last major temples built in the Hawaiian Islands, was constructed by Kamehameha the Great from 1790 to 1791. Arguably one of the greatest leaders in Hawaiian History, Kamehameha became the first person to unite the warring islands into the Kingdom of Hawai'i. Pu'ukoholā Heiau played a crucial role in the unification of the Hawaiian Islands, for Kamehameha built the temple as a result of a prophecy that came through a priest named Kapoukahi. This kahuna, or priest, told Kamehameha that if he were to build a heiau on the hill known as Pu'ukoholā, and dedicate it to his family’s war god Kuka'ilimoku, he would be able to conquer all of the islands.

It is said that thousands and thousands of men labored for nearly a year to construct this heiau. Through the stories that have been passed down generation to generation, we believe that the builders brought these rocks from the distant Pololu Valley, Forming a human chain nearly 25 miles long, the laborers handed the water-worn lava rocks one person to another up and over Kohala Mountain to this site. Without the use of mortar, cement or other bonding materials, these skilled laborers placed these rocks in exact locations in order to meet specific building specifications.

 
Bench along a grass-lined trail
News

See the latest news releases and find out what's new at Puʻukoholā Heiau.

Kamehameha the Great
People

Read more about the people involved in the heiau's history.

View of heiau from Pelekane, with a coconut tree in the foreground
Places

Historic heiau, a homestead, and Pelekane.

Blacktip reef shark fin appearing above rippled water
Nature

Blacktip reef sharks, humpback whales, and other species you'll see while visiting the park.

Park ranger leading group of kids along the trail
Kids & Youth

We also offer fun learning opportunities for kids and (and kūpuna) of all ages.

Sun rising over heiau
Management

Learn more about park policies, regulations, and how to contact us.

Last updated: April 30, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
62-3601 Kawaihae Road

Kawaihae, HI 96743

Phone:

808 882-7218

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