Hauola City of Refuge

Hauola City of Refuge, Kauai

Located at the mouth of the Wailua River, right next to the Hikinaakala Heiau, Hauola City of Refuge (see more photos) 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.

Hauola City of Refuge Overview

Ancient pu'uhonua (place of refuge) after a kapu was broken or during times of war
Located at the mouth of the Wailua River

Vacation Rentals near Hauola City

Kaha Lani #304: Coconut Coast • Pacific Sunrise View • 1BR/1½B • Penthouse

$ 152

Gorgeous Kauai Beachfront: Private & Central Island Location!

$ 160

Oceanfront Lae Nani Luxury Firstfloor Condo Wailua Bay Kauai

$ 195

Stunning Ground Floor Unit Ocean Front in Building Five

$ 225

Lani Kai 112: 1 BR / 1 BA condo in Wailua, Sleeps 4

$ 245

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Map
Weather

Location:

Nalu Road, Wailua HI 96746

Directions: The place of refuge is located at the northern end of Lydgate Beach Park, next to the Hikinaakala Heiau. Drive to the end of Nalu Road and park there.

Reviews and Comments:


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!!!
Kent , Sat May 16, 2015