The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (a. k. a. place of refuge) is a must-see on your visit to the Big Island of Hawai’i if you are at all interested in Hawaiian culture. On top of the plethora of things you will learn about the life of the ancient Hawaiians, the Puʻuhonua’s 182 acres boast a beautiful setting on the ocean that is truly unparalleled.
When you visit, you will be greeted by a gift shop and an invitation to visit respectfully. Please know that this is not an amusement park specially set up for the enjoyment of tourists, but it is an ancient cultural and spiritual site that is still today being used for religious purposes. We find it easiest to think of it as a church and try to visit accordingly. Take your time exploring the park and soak in the tranquility and sense of peace and calm this incredible place has to offer.
Don’t forget to have fun, though! Make it a point to listen to the fascinating ranger talks and watch the film presentations in the gazebo right by the entrance throughout the day. The ranger talks are a special highlight, as they are incredibly knowledgeable and will happily and honestly answer all questions you may have. They will also teach you how to pronounce the name of this place. Also, marvel at the fierce-looking Ki’i (wooden statues) while you try to decipher their meanings, sit on the beach and play a game of kōnane (a bit like checkers), take hundreds of pictures of the birds and plantlife throughout, and watch local crafters weave baskets, carve canoes or wooden images, keeping ancient techniques alive. Most days, you can also spot hundreds of Yellow Tang and Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles (honu) from the shore while you stroll around the Puʻuhonua grounds.
If you’re visiting other National Park Service sites such as Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or Kaloko-Honokōhau during the same trip, it may be worth buying an Interagency Pass that will get your party into all U. S. National Parks, National Historical Parks, National Forests, National Monuments etc. for a year.
While you are in the area, we also recommend snorkeling at one of the prime snorkeling spots on the Big Island: Two Step, which is right next to the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau.
