Puuhonua O Honaunau

Short, flat hike takes visitors on cultural journey

A flat, roughly mile-long hike, this trek affords visitors an opportunity to experience a culturally significant site in native Hawaiian history. 

The “place of refuge” allowed Hawaiians who broke the collection of laws known then as the Kapu system a reprieve from the death penalty.

The site still houses the foundations of ancient heiau (temples) and remnants of fishponds used in everyday native Hawaiian life. 

Hikers can also view large wooden sculptures, and maybe even catch a glimpse of honu (native sea turtles) that frequent the nearby beach. 

By traveling further south on foot, hikers can explore additional trails that meander along the rugged yet picturesque coastline.