Posted in Hawaii July 20, 2019 by

Most People Have Never Heard Of This Impressive Archaeological Site Hiding In Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands are steeped in history and ss such, the Aloha State is home to rich historical sites and cultural monuments that were instrumental in the islands’ history. Ancient Hawaiian temples, or heiaus, were built for many reasons, including the treatment of the sick, offering of the first fruits, to start and stop the rain, to increase the population, achieve success in distant voyaging, ensure a nation’s health, or reach peace, for example. You’ll find the remnants of these temples across the Hawaiian Islands, and while all are sacred, there is one heiau, in particular, most people have never heard of.

Nestled along the southern coast of one of Hawaii’s smallest main islands, Lanai near the small fishing village of Kaunolu is a small temple many people have never heard of, and few have visited.
Mark S/TripAdvisor
This is the Halulu Heiau, and despite its off-the-beaten-path location, it is easily one of Lanai’s most impressive archaeological sites.
Joel Bradshaw/Wikipedia
Halulu Heiau was one of the last Hawaiian temples to be erected and was in use through the early 1800s, which is likely why it is still mostly intact.
Visit Lanai/Facebook
Often thought to be a luakini heiau, a sacred place where human and animal blood sacrifices were offered to the gods in the name of war, Halulu Heiau likely served many purposes throughout the years.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai/Facebook
King Kamehameha enjoyed fishing in Kaunolu Village, and between 1778 and 1810, was thought to have held various ceremonies at Halulu.
Joel Bradshaw/Wikipedia
This temple once served also as a place of refuge to challenge those who broke the law.
malandinara/TripAdvisor
In order to be forgiven for their crimes, outlaws had to make it to the temple before getting caught. The heiau’s location was strategically chosen, as it was nearly impossible to reach it and most lawbreakers were unable to attain forgiveness.
Today, you will have to drive approximately 3 miles of rough, rocky road to the reach Halulu Heiau.
Mark S/TripAdvisor
During the dry season, this heiau can be accessed with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, but when it’s wet, you can’t drive here at all and will have to walk.
If you make the trip out to Halulu Heiau, you will be able to bask in the pristine beauty of this well-preserved Hawaiian place of worship as you walk amidst the ancient stone walls set against the peaceful backdrop of the Lanai coast and the seaside village of Kaunolu.
Mark S/TripAdvisor
Just remember: this is a sacred place and it is kapu to walk on the rock walls or enter a heiau anywhere in Hawaii, including Halulu Heiau. It is also forbidden to move or take any of the stones.

Address: Highway 440 S, Kaupili Road, Lanai, HI

Have you ever heard of — or visited — the Halulu Heiau? If so, share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. Then, click here to learn all about the unique heiau hiding underwater along the coast of the Big Island.