Halulu Heiau

Halulu Heiau is a sacred Lanai site within Kaunolu Village, with Kamehameha I history, puuhonua connections, petroglyphs nearby and remote south-coast cliffs.

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Halulu Heiau

Halulu Heiau, Lanai

Halulu Heiau is one of the most impressive archaeological sites on Lanai. Take a nature walk amidst ancient stone walls and bask in the pristine beauty of a well-preserved Hawaiian place of worship. The heiau makes a stunning presence with its stark color and intricate construction, set against the peaceful backdrop of the ancient seaside village of Kaunolu on Lanai's south shore. Halulu Heiau was one of the last few to be erected, which is why it is still mostly intact. It was in use up to circa 1819.

The heiau once served as a place of refuge, built by King Kamehameha to challenge those who broke the law. In order to be forgiven, outlaws had to make it to the temple before getting caught. The location for the heiau was strategically chosen, and it was almost impossible to reach it, making it difficult for lawbreakers to attain forgiveness. Even today, you'll have to drive up around 3 miles (4.8 km) of rough, rocky road to reach it.

During the dry season, Halulu Heiau can only be accessed with a four-wheel drive vehicle. If it's wet, you can't drive here at all but will have to walk.

Left of Halulu is Kahekili's Leap, also known as Warriors Leap. From this natural platform, Kamehameha's elite warriors would prove themselves by leaping 80 feet (24 m) into the ocean below. Visitors to the heiau should keep in mind that it is disrespectful to walk on the rock walls or enter a heiau anywhere in Hawaii, including Halulu Heiau. It is also not allowed to move or take any of the stones.

Key Features

Sacred heiau within Kaunolu Village Site on Lanai's south coast
Associated with Kamehameha I and the final years of the kapu system
Connected with a puuhonua, or place of refuge
Part of a larger archaeological landscape with stone walls and village remains
Petroglyphs are found in the wider Kaunolu area
Kahekili's Leap is nearby along the cliffside
Remote dry south-coast setting with ocean and cliff views
Reached by rough unpaved roads from the Lanai City side
Dry conditions and a suitable four-wheel-drive vehicle are important
Visitors should not walk on walls, move stones or disturb cultural features

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Halulu Heiau located?

Halulu Heiau is located within Kaunolu Village Site on Lanai's remote south coast.

Why is Halulu Heiau important?

Halulu Heiau is tied to Kamehameha I, the final years of the kapu system and the larger Kaunolu archaeological landscape.

Was Halulu Heiau connected with a puuhonua?

Yes. Halulu Heiau was associated with a puuhonua, a place of refuge connected with kapu violations, conflict and ritual forgiveness.

Do visitors need four-wheel drive?

A suitable four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended because the route to Kaunolu uses rough, unpaved roads. Wet weather can make the road unsafe or impassable.

How should visitors behave at Halulu Heiau?

Stay on visible paths, avoid walking on stone walls, never move rocks, keep voices low and treat the heiau and surrounding village site as sacred cultural ground.