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Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site Review

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Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Fodor's Review:

In 1790 a prophet told King Kamehameha to build a heiau on top of Puukohola (Hill of the Whale) and dedicate it to the war god Kukailimoku by sacrificing his principal rival, Keoua Kuahuula. By doing so the king would achieve his goal of conquering the Hawaiian Islands. The prophecy came true in 1810. A short walk over arid landscape leads from the visitor center to Puukohola Heiau and to Mailekini Heiau, a navigational aid constructed about 1550. An even older temple, dedicated to the shark gods, lies submerged just offshore. The center organizes Hawaiian arts-and-crafts programs on a regular basis. Although the heiau was damaged by the 2006 earthquakes, the walkway is still intact, as is the majority of the structure.

  • Cost: Free
  • Open: Daily 7:30-4
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