Naha Stone

The Naha Stone is a sacred Hilo landmark connected with royal lineage, Kamehameha I, chiefly identity and the prophecy of Hawaiian island unity.

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Naha Stone

Naha Stone, Hilo

Located in front of the Hilo Public Library are two stones, one of them larger than the other. This larger one is called the Naha Stone. In ancient Hawaii, it was used to find out who belongs to the ruling Naha clan. After a baby was born, it was placed on top of this stone. If it remained calm, the baby was Naha. If it cried, it wasn’t.

It is believed that this 7,000 pound rock was brought here from the island of Kauai via canoe. The stone fulfilled another important role in the past. Legend had it that whoever was able to move it would be the first king of all the Hawaiian islands.

At the age of 14, Kamehameha decided to try to move this stone (and risked death if he couldn’t). He tried several times and succeeded in the end. And indeed, he was the Hawaiian king who unified all the islands under his rule.

Key Features

Sacred cultural landmark in front of the Hilo Public Library
Associated with the Naha chiefly line and ancient identity traditions
Connected with the prophecy that one ruler would unite the Hawaiian Islands
Young Kamehameha is said to have moved the stone before becoming king
Often described as weighing about 7,000 pounds
Said to have been brought from Kauai by canoe
Located on Waianuenue Avenue in downtown Hilo
Companion stone stands near the larger Naha Stone
Visitors should not climb on, touch or move anything around the stone
The site should be treated as an important Hawaiian cultural landmark

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Naha Stone located?

The Naha Stone is in Hilo on Hawaii Island, displayed in front of the Hilo Public Library on Waianuenue Avenue.

Why is the Naha Stone important?

The Naha Stone is important because Hawaiian tradition connects it with royal lineage, chiefly identity and the prophecy of Hawaiian island unity.

How is the Naha Stone connected with Kamehameha I?

Legend says young Kamehameha moved the massive stone and later fulfilled the prophecy that he would unite the Hawaiian Islands.

How much does the Naha Stone weigh?

The Naha Stone is often described as weighing about 7,000 pounds, making the Kamehameha story especially powerful in Hawaiian tradition.

Can visitors touch or climb on the Naha Stone?

No. Visitors should view the stone respectfully, avoid touching or climbing on it and leave the surrounding area undisturbed.