Poli'ahu Heiau
Poliʻahu Heiau is a sacred Hawaiian temple located in Wailua River State Park. Believed to have been built by the legendary menehune, this ancient site was once dedicated to the war god Kū. With towering lava rock walls and spiritual kapu areas, Poliʻahu Heiau offers visitors a glimpse into Hawaii’s religious and cultural past.
Poli'ahu Heiau, Kauai
Poli'ahu Heiau is located within the Wailua River State Park, near the Opaeka'a Falls lookout point. It is one of seven heiau along the Wailua River. The age of the heiau is unknown, though it is believed that it was built by the menehune, the legendary little people of Hawaii. It is believed that the heiau was in use during the 1600s and 1700s, but it may be older than that.
The heiau encompasses a little over an acre. Its rock wall was constructed by interlocking the stacked rocks without use of mortar. The outside wall is 5 feet (1.5 m) high and 5 feet (1.5 m) wide. The rocks had to be brought up here from the river valley below. A heiau of this size was usually built under the direction of an ali'i nui (high ruling chief), who would first consult with his kahuna (priests). The actual building of the heiau was done by the maka'ainana (commoners).
Since Poli'ahu is a rather large and complex heiau, it has been suggested that it was a luakini heiau, a heiau dedicated to the war god Ku. Luakini heiaus could involve human sacrifice as well as offerings of fish and other animals.
Key Features of Poliʻahu Heiau
- Historic religious site: Ancient luakini heiau possibly used for human and animal sacrifices
- Strategic hillside location: Overlooks the Wailua River and Opaekaʻa Falls area
- Impressive stonework: Massive interlocked lava rock walls with no mortar
- Associated with Kū: Dedicated to the war god and built under aliʻi direction
- Part of a sacred network: One of seven heiau along the Wailua River corridor
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Poliʻahu Heiau?
Poliʻahu Heiau is believed to have been a luakini heiau—used for worship, war-related rituals, and possibly human sacrifice, often dedicated to the war god Kū.
Who built Poliʻahu Heiau?
According to legend, it was constructed by the menehune, Hawaii’s mythical stone builders, but likely built by early Hawaiians under the direction of ruling chiefs and priests.
Where is Poliʻahu Heiau located?
It is situated in Wailua River State Park, along Kuamoo Road, just under a mile from Highway 56, across from the Opaekaʻa Falls lookout.
Can visitors explore the entire heiau?
No, certain central areas of the heiau are considered sacred and are marked as off-limits (kapu). Visitors should observe respectfully from designated areas.