Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Beautifully maintained national park. The parking and entrance process was simple. Bout a tri park annual pass online although no one was at the gate to check it. Gift shop closed at noon not sure if it was for break or for the day but glad I got my stamp and souvenirs when we got there. Very sunny bring a hat and water. There is minimal shade. Overall should take no more than 1-2 hours to see the whole park but you can spend more time at your leisure.

Still a place of honor and refuge, this park is easy to walk as you pass the small cove and imposing wall. There is a small outdoor theater and the quaint store is well stocked. Clean bathrooms and decent parking makes this a great stop for an hour or two.

Beautiful area to explore. It's a short walk around the park with stories and information written about the history. The location is close to a small area with great snorkeling.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a captivating destination that offers a profound glimpse into Hawaii’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Located on the Big Island’s scenic Kona Coast, this sacred site is steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The park was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. In times of war or conflict, those who broke kapu (sacred laws) could seek sanctuary here and, after performing certain rituals, be forgiven and allowed to return to society. Walking through the park, you can feel the weight of its history and the spiritual significance it holds. The restored temple platforms, royal fishponds, and wooden kiʻi (carved statues) provide a vivid picture of what life was like in ancient Hawaii. One of the highlights is the Great Wall, a massive stone structure that separates the royal grounds from the puʻuhonua (place of refuge). It’s an impressive feat of engineering and a powerful symbol of the site’s purpose. The park also features informative signage and exhibits that explain the history and cultural practices of the area, making it both educational and engaging. The natural setting is equally stunning, with lush palm trees, black lava rock coastlines, and the sparkling blue ocean as a backdrop. It’s a peaceful place to wander, reflect, and connect with Hawaii’s past. The nearby tidal pools and ocean views add to the park’s serene atmosphere. While the park is relatively small, it’s packed with historical and cultural significance. It’s a great spot for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience a quieter, more reflective side of Hawaii. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hawaiian history and culture. It’s a place where the past comes alive, offering a unique and meaningful experience that stays with you long after you leave.

It is a great place to spend a couple of hours and experience the original culture of Hawaii. There are local guides available at the site to explain many aspects of Hawaiian culture. Most of the area is an easy level walk with sitting areas. Parking lot available at site. Some areas are full sun but there are some shaded areas as well.

Very beautiful park! It's very well maintained and beautiful. There's palm trees, some walking trails, and the famous stone statues. The place is a sacred ground for Hawaiian culture. We didn't stay too long, but it was a neat place and definitely recommend checking it out.

Such a beautiful place. Do yourself a favor and download the NPS app. It will guide you through all the information with its self guided tour. If you pull further around in the park there is a phenomenal beach. It’s but rocky, so I’m sure it’s not for swimming but the views would make the most wonderful picnic area! The NP employees do a wonderful job making sure that this park is well kept. Clean bathrooms and lots of historic and spiritual information.

It was a cool place to visit! I learned a lot from the video and enjoyed walking around looking at the historical structures. They also have some cool laminated pages about tide pooling, protecting the animals, animal identification, and moon cycles. I found some fish in the ponds, which were cool to watch as well. Pro tip: There is very little shade here, and most of the things are outside, so cover up and/or pack some mineral sunscreen.