The One Urban Legend In Hawaii That Will Make You Stay Inside After Dark

With a history steeped in religion, culture and even civil war, the Hawaiian Islands are no stranger to crazy urban legends. From legends surrounding the powerful and influential volcano goddess, Pele, to modern myths of wandering spirits, the Aloha State isn't all sunshine and happiness. However, some legends are a little scarier than others, and there is perhaps no Hawaiian myth more terrifying than that of the Night Marchers. Don’t believe me? Read on to see for yourself just how creepy this legend of the Night Marchers in Hawaii truly is...

The Huaka’ipo, also known as the night marchers, are the spirits of ancient Hawaiian warriors who have been cursed to march the islands for eternity. Legend has it that they spend their nights roaming the islands visiting old battlefields and religious sites. Others say that these warriors are simply restless souls looking to reclaim rightful territory, replay a battle gone awry, or avenge their own deaths. Some even say that the night marchers are searching methodically for an entrance into the next world.

Whatever their mission, the night marchers are said to march in a single line, often carrying torches and weapons while chanting and playing drums. To protect yourself, you must quickly run indoors or lie on the ground face down in respect if you come in contact with these restless spirits. You must also be perfectly silent and still, for any sudden sound or movement could invite the deadly glance of a night marcher. If you make eye contact with the night marchers, you will die and be forced to march with them for an eternity.

The night marchers are set diligently upon their destination, and unless you make eye contact, these spirits are not thought to deviate from their path in an attempt to haunt humans nearby. If one of your ancestors happens to be marching, no one in the procession can harm you.

Nowhere is safe. The night marchers have been seen near the Nu’uanu Pali State Wayside, the Manoa Falls Banyan Tree (pictured above), and Laie on Oahu, as well as various sites throughout the Hawaiian Islands, including the entire town of Kaunakakai on the tiny island of Molokai. Nighttime visitors to any of these locations are urged to be wary.

The night marchers are thought to come out during periods of heavy wind, rain, and high surf, and fog or mist often accompanies them on their journey. Legend has it that they are seen marching in alternating rows of males and females, carrying torches, and chanting to the beat of a drum. It is also thought that the night marchers appear on certain nights designated by the moon, including Po Akua, the 14th night of the new moon, and the nights of Kane, Ku, Lono, and Kanaloa.

This is certainly one urban legend that will make you want to stay inside after dark — and maybe consult a lunar calendar. Have you ever encountered the night marchers in Hawaii?

Can’t get enough of Hawaii’s legends? You might want to read about the Menehune or even this myth that spooks tourists.