Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a significant cultural and historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian traditions and customs. Situated on the Kona Coast, the park covers an area of 182 acres and is managed by the National Park Service.

This historical park holds immense historical importance as it served as a place of refuge, known as a puʻuhonua, during times of war in ancient Hawaiian society. It was a sanctuary where those who had violated laws or faced death could find safety and forgiveness. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau was also the residence of Hawaiian chiefs and a significant site for the practice of kapu (sacred laws) until the early 19th century.

Visitors to the park can explore the restored structures and immerse themselves in the rich history and cultural significance of the Hawaiian people. The Hale o Keawe Heiau, a stone platform where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were laid to rest, is a major attraction within the park. The Royal Grounds, featuring a reconstructed thatched home and lava-rock walls, offer insight into the lives of Hawaiian nobility. A replica of a traditional outrigger canoe, as well as various implements and tools, showcase the island's seafaring heritage.

The park also provides opportunities for recreational activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking along the pristine coastline. Keoneʻele Cove, located within the park, offers a sheltered bay for swimming and snorkeling, revealing vibrant coral reefs and a diverse marine ecosystem.

Nearby attractions include the Captain Cook Monument, marking the site where British explorer Captain James Cook first made contact with native Hawaiians in 1778. The Painted Church, a short drive away, is known for its colorful wall murals depicting biblical scenes. Additionally, visitors can explore the scenic Kona Coffee Belt, where they can sample locally-grown coffee and learn about the region's coffee production.

Overall, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park offers a unique opportunity to delve into Hawaiian history, experience the natural beauty of the area's coastline, and appreciate the ancient traditions of the Hawaiian people.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is nestled along the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, in the state of Hawaii. This sacred place is situated in the region known as South Kona, encompassing approximately 182 acres of land. The park is blessed with a stunning location, surrounded by vibrant tropical vegetation, pristine blue waters, and the majestic Mauna Loa volcano as a dramatic backdrop. With its positioning on the western shore, it offers breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. The geographical location of Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park captures the essence of Hawaii's natural beauty, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere for visitors to explore and connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people.

Address & Contact

84-5559 Keala o Keawe Rd.
HWY 160
Hōnaunau, HI 96726
Driving Directions
Phone: 8083282326
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park would be during the months of January, February, November, and December. These months have comfortable temperatures ranging from 57°F to 79°F and moderate precipitation ranging from 1.7 in to 4.1 in. This timeframe allows for enjoyable outdoor activities without extreme heat or heavy rainfall.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Hiking Fishing Cultural Demonstrations Snorkeling

Topics

Learn about these topics at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: Animals Birds Geology Archeology Arts Fish Tortoises and Turtles Trails Unique Species Religion and Spirituality Schools and Education Climate Change Natural Sounds Scenic Views Rare Endangered Ruins Coasts, Islands and Atolls Sculpture Pacific Islander Heritage The Tropics Reconstruction Heiau

Visitor Centers

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park Visitor Center

The Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau Historical Park Visitor Center is open year-round. Please note: the Park Store is cashless and accepts card or digital payments only.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

A Beautiful Edge of the World B&B

Located in Captain Cook, A Beautiful Edge of the World B&B is within a 5-minute drive of Kona Coffee Living History Farm and Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. Featured amenities include luggage storage, laundry facilities, and a library. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 82-5889 Old Government Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Web: Link

Ka'awaloa Plantation Bed & Breakfast

When you stay at Ka'awaloa Plantation Bed & Breakfast in Captain Cook, you'll be near the beach, within a 5-minute drive of Kona Coffee Living History Farm and Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 82-5990 Napoopoo Road, Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Web: Link

Kona Palace in Captain Cook

Located in Captain Cook, Kona Palace in Captain Cook is in the historical district, within a 5-minute drive of Kona Pacific Farmers Cooperative and Kona Coffee Living History Farm. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 82-5815 Napoopoo Rd., Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Web: Link

Manago Hotel

With a stay at Manago Hotel in Captain Cook, you'll be a 5-minute walk from Kona Coffee Living History Farm and 5 minutes by foot from Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. The front desk is staffed during limited hours.
Address: 82-6155 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Web: Link

Rainbow Plantation B&B

Located in Captain Cook, Rainbow Plantation B&B is by the ocean, within a 15-minute walk of Kona Coffee Living History Farm and Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. Featured amenities include a computer station, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 81-6327 B Mamalahoa Hwy., Captain Cook, Hawaii 96750
Web: Link

Keauhou Punahele #B106

When you stay at Keauhou Punahele #B106 in Kailua-Kona, you'll be near the beach, within a 10-minute walk of Haleo Luau and Kona Country Club.
Address: 78-7070 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link

Keauhou Punahele D103

When you stay at Keauhou Punahele D103 in Kailua-Kona, you'll be near the beach, within a 10-minute walk of Haleo Luau and Kona Country Club.
Address: 78-7070 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link

Kona Bayview Inn

Located in Captain Cook, Kona Bayview Inn is within a 10-minute drive of Kealakekua Bay and Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 83-5605 Middle Keei Rd, Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Web: Link

Big Island Kona Dreams by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations

With a stay at this vacation home in Captain Cook (Opihihale), you'll be a 1-minute drive from Pebbles Beach and 9 minutes from Ka Lae Paakai. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 87-3184 Mapuna Rd, Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Web: Link

Keauhou Punahele #d103

When you stay at this vacation home in Kailua-Kona, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 10-minute walk of Haleo Luau and Kona Country Club. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: Keauhou Punahele D103, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Web: Link