Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

State park · Pupukea ·

Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

State park · Pupukea ·

Oahu's largest ancient temple with panoramic views of Waimea Bay

Information

59-818 Kamehameha Hwy #96712, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Get directions

@travelleisure

27,057 Postcards · 5,402 Cities

Seclusion, Surf, and Shrimp on Oahu's North Shore

"Winding up the steep switchbacks of Pupukea Road I reached Pu‘u O Mahuka Heiau, the largest of Oʻahu’s temples and thought to be a luakini heiau used for ceremonial sacrifice; I stepped lightly at this sacred site, felt the island mana, and drank in sweeping views of the valley, mountains, and vast Pacific." - Gina DeCaprio Vercesi Gina DeCaprio Vercesi Gina DeCaprio Vercesi is a New York-based writer with a passion for adventure, history, and conservation. Her words and images have appeared in publications including Travel + Leisure, National Geographic Traveler, AARP The Magazine, Delta Sky, Hemispheres, and The Boston Globe. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/island-vacations/oahu-north-shore-kamehameha-highway

Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"Oahu's Largest Ancient Temple The cultural site is home to Pu‘u o Mahuka, Oahu’s largest heiau, or ancient temple. The site has beautiful panoramic views, and you can look out to Waimea Bay, which is cool when the waves are big. — Hoku Haiku Off Pupukea Rd. This appeared in the June/July 2013 issue. Read more about Hoku Haiku’s North Shore neighborhood in Oahu. By Afar Magazine"

History, Art, and Architecture on Oahu

Photo courtesy of José Mandojana

Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

Nancy B.

Google

So solemn, so beautiful! I was impressed to find that it's the largest Heiau on Oahu and happy to see it had an actual parking lot. There's a nice path to follow around it with informational signs and excellent views of Waimea.

Diego D.

Google

Quick trail and stop to learn about hawaiian history. One trail goes to a pillbox and one trail leads to a beautiful view overlooking Wailea bay and valley that's worth checking out. Stay on the trail.

Helen M.

Google

Awesome spot above Waimea Valley where you can learn about Hawaiian culture amidst the ruins of an old temple. There's a half mile trail around the ruins with offshoots that take you to overlooks with spectacular views of the coast and valley below. The gate is open from 7am - 5pm daily - if it's closed then you can still walk in along the paved route. Well worth a visit.

Chris B.

Google

Strong mana, great view, sad to see it mostly abandoned. I am guessing that whoever controls the valley doesn't care about this important cultural site, which is sad. The view of the bay and valley are amazing and this place should be a historic site with rangers protecting it and educating people on why it is significant. Instead it is overgrown with not much info on why it was important. It was the largest religious structure on the island, yet it received three signs with information. There is a small trail to a power pole and a tiny overlook to the valley. Someone added fencing and gates to restrict access to he valley, so my guess is that people were getting access without paying and who ever controls the waterfall didn't like that. This sacred site should not be forgotten and the native history should continue to be shared to those who visit. Still worth checking out because the ruins are impressive. Locals still utilize the site to leave offerings.

Tyrone K.

Google

When you first arrive at this beautiful ancient ruins, you truly respect the time spent here , imagining this place 250 years ago with many different events held in the sacred space the beauty you see through the ocean is felt when you lay eyes upon the remaining foundation, a truly special place respect, natural beauty, and the historical importance of this site Aloha

Becky M.

Google

It's got the most beautiful views of Maui and the waters below but the drive on the private road can get tricky if there are more than 3 cars on it, simultaneously. Fortunately, we were there during the lunch shift and only 2 other cars pulled into the parking lot at the end of the private road. I worry that more visitors won't heed the signs that request staying on the path, not leaving stones, not touching the temple perimeter walls, etc. I don't get the serene vibes that others have commented, but I still enjoyed the natural preservation of the site.

Doug D.

Google

Historic Heiau overlooking the ocean. These were built to celebrate various events in ancient Hawaiian peoples lives by the leaders of the area. When we arrived we were greeted by some chickens but were the only people there. No restrooms or water. Plenty of parking. Heiaus are very sacred places for Hawaiians so please do not walk in the rocks or disturb any offerings. A beautiful place to enjoy the views and contemplate the history of the islands.

Lopaka P.

Google

Our visit was nothing short of amazing. Upon arrival you can sense something very Special here. Its a beautiful place with a short trail to some amazing views overlooking waimea Bay. Always remember the cultural and spiritual value of this place and you will leave truly feeling blessed.