Hauola City of Refuge

Kauai Ancient Site Guide

Hauola City of Refuge

Hauola City of Refuge is a sacred Kauai puuhonua at the mouth of the Wailua River, beside Hikinaakala Heiau and Lydgate Beach Park.

Ancient Hawaiian Site
Ancient Hawaiian Site

Hauola City of Refuge, Kauai

Located at the mouth of the Wailua River, right next to the Hikinaakala Heiau, Hauola City of Refuge was a pu'uhonua (place of refuge) in ancient Hawaii. It was a sanctuary for kapu (taboo) breakers. It was forbidden, for example, to walk in the shadow of an ali'i (royalty). Breaking a kapu was punishable by death. But if one made it to a pu'uhonua such as this one, one could find refuge and was ultimately able to escape prosecution and resume one's life. A place of refuge also served as a sanctuary during times of war.

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Kent

Sat May 16, 2015

A few signs and visible marker stones. Come alone or with your lover. Best at sunset mid-week. Few people then. Stroll and sit, trying to imagine this sanctuary in the times before western men came. A spiritual place!!!

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Browse Hauola City of Refuge photos featuring the ancient sanctuary, Hikinaakala Heiau area, Wailua River mouth, historic signs and Lydgate Beach Park coastal scenery.

Location, Parking and Directions

Hauola City of Refuge is located at the northern end of Lydgate Beach Park near the mouth of the Wailua River, beside Hikinaakala Heiau. From Kuhio Highway, turn makai toward Nalu Road and continue to the end of the road near the park and river mouth. Use designated parking only and follow posted signs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Hauola City of Refuge?

Hauola City of Refuge is at the mouth of the Wailua River on Kauai, near Hikinaakala Heiau and the northern end of Lydgate Beach Park.

What was Hauola City of Refuge used for?

Hauola was a puuhonua, or place of refuge, where people could seek protection, cleansing and return to community life under traditional Hawaiian law.

Is Hauola City of Refuge easy to visit?

Yes. Visitors can reach the area from Nalu Road at the north end of Lydgate Beach Park, near the Wailua River mouth.

What is nearby?

Nearby places include Hikinaakala Heiau, Lydgate Beach Park, Wailua River, Wailua town and other sacred sites connected with the Wailua Complex.

How should visitors behave at Hauola?

Visitors should stay on allowed paths, avoid stepping on sacred stone areas, read posted signs, keep the site clean and treat the place with respect.