In addition to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island is home to two National Historical Parks: Pu'uhonua o Honauna and Kaloko-Honokohua. Both are near Kona -- Kaloko is just north of downtown Kona-Kailua, before the turnoff for the airport. Pu'uhonua is south of Kona, about a 30-minute drive and is next to Two-Step, a great snorkeling spot.
The main entrance to Kaloko-Honokohua is off Highway 19, but is only open from 8:30 and to 4:00 pm. If you want to visit earlier or later, there is a nice accessible entrance off the Kealakehe Parkway, which leads to the boat harbor. You can park in the large gravel harbor parking area and walk in. The trail leads along the beach, where you can see sea turtles, shorebirds, fishponds, and enjoy an early morning stroll. You might want to stop at the visitor's center when it is open to pick up a park brochure, which has great information and a trail map.
Pu'uhonua, "a place of refuge," has a wonderful interpretive trail. The 12-foot high Great Wall, constructed over 400 years ago, defines the sacred space of the Pu'uhonua, where those who broke kapu, the sacred laws and beliefs were safe if they made it to this place. The Hale o Keawe is a royal mausoleum housing bones of 23 ali'i (chiefs). Wooden images are of ki'i representing Hawaiian gods.
The main entrance to Kaloko-Honokohua is off Highway 19, but is only open from 8:30 and to 4:00 pm. If you want to visit earlier or later, there is a nice accessible entrance off the Kealakehe Parkway, which leads to the boat harbor. You can park in the large gravel harbor parking area and walk in. The trail leads along the beach, where you can see sea turtles, shorebirds, fishponds, and enjoy an early morning stroll. You might want to stop at the visitor's center when it is open to pick up a park brochure, which has great information and a trail map.
A green sea turtle rests on the beach.
The islanders protect the sea turtles and are careful not to disturb them.
Pu'uhonua, "a place of refuge," has a wonderful interpretive trail. The 12-foot high Great Wall, constructed over 400 years ago, defines the sacred space of the Pu'uhonua, where those who broke kapu, the sacred laws and beliefs were safe if they made it to this place. The Hale o Keawe is a royal mausoleum housing bones of 23 ali'i (chiefs). Wooden images are of ki'i representing Hawaiian gods.
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