Hawaiian Heiau and History

To beat the heat, start as early as you can and allow at least 5 hours to enjoy a leisurely pace. Wear sturdy shoes for the trails and be sure to take along lots of sunscreen, water, snorkeling equipment and beach gear to cool off in the ocean after a morning of historical sightseeing. From the Kona International Airport at Keahole, expect the drive to the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site to take about an hour. The park opens at 7:30am and parking is...read more

To beat the heat, start as early as you can and allow at least 5 hours to enjoy a leisurely pace. Wear sturdy shoes for the trails and be sure to take along lots of sunscreen, water, snorkeling equipment and beach gear to cool off in the ocean after a morning of historical sightseeing. From the Kona International Airport at Keahole, expect the drive to the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site to take about an hour. The park opens at 7:30am and parking is readily available. This site is the site of the largest war temple in the islands. It is one of the most significant sites in all the islands. Kamehameha I launched his efforts to unify the Hawaiian islands. There are trails and lots of ocean views.

The drive from Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site to Ahuena Heiau takes about and hour. Exit the parking lot and turn right and continue south toward Kona past the airport. Turn right on Palani Road and right onto Kaahumanu Place. This heiau is located in the heart of Kona, at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach hotel. It is the best example of Hawaiian sacrificial temple in existence today. The area is used daily for luau and other tourist activities. A short stop to view the area and photo opportunities is really all that is necessary.

Next stop is lunch at Huggo’s on the Rocks. An award winning oceanfront restaurant that is both casual and family friendly. To get to Huggo’s turn right onto Alii Drive and continue south through Kona . You’ll find the restaurant on the right about a mile down the road. Along Alii Drive be sure to take notice of Huliee Palace on the right hand side. This was a summer retreat for Hawaiian royalty. Owned primarily by Princess Ruth 'Luka 'Ke'elikolani and then passed to Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, and later bought by King David Kalakaua and Queen Kapi'olani.

Huggo’s on the Rocks is a lively place where the fresh fish rules and the margaritas flow freely. Prices are reasonable. Huggo’s also has a fine dining area better for more upscale dining at sunset. From Huggo’s, turn right and continue south on Alii drive. Turn right onto Hawaii belt Road and continue south. The drive to the last stop of the day will take about an hour. Turn right onto Puuhonua Rd and continue to the park entrance. This park closes at 8pm so take your time to enjoy the historical sites, trails, tide pools, beach and sunset if you choose to stay that long.
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