Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods)

Keahiakawelo, also called Garden of the Gods, is a remote northwest Lanai rock garden with red earth, wind-shaped boulders, cultural stories and wide island views.

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Garden of the Gods, Lanai

Legend shrouds the mystic rock formations that make up the Garden of the Gods on Lanai, located about seven miles (11 km) north of Lanai City. Known to locals as Keahiakawelo, the Garden is a vast expanse featuring large boulders in a spectrum of red, orange, purple and earthen colors, scattered so perfectly that you’d think they were placed here by hand.

According to scientists, the rocks were formed over thousands of years through natural erosion, leaving pinnacles and buttes over the soil. But even some geologists are baffled by the rocks’ artful arrangement and the way some of them are stacked in perfect balance. One legend claims that the rocks fell from the gods’ gardens in the sky (hence its name), while another says they hold the spirits of ancient Hawaiian warriors.

Theories aside, the Garden of the Gods is easily one of the most beautiful spots on Lanai. From the far end of the garden, you can look out at the Pacific Ocean and make out the nearby islands of Molokai and Maui. Depending on the time of day you visit the garden, the rocks’ colors will look differently. Sunrise and sunsets are great here, as is a nighttime visit during full moon. It’s a truly otherworldly experience.

Like the rest of the island, the road leading to the Garden is unpaved. It’s a dirt-road and the easiest way to access the area is with a four-wheel drive vehicle, or you can hike here. If you’re lucky, you’ll see the occasional native deer grazing the meager grass that grows in small patches on the trail. It’s a long hike, but it’s more than worth it.

Key Features

Remote rock garden on northwest Lanai near Polihua Road
Also known as Garden of the Gods
Keahiakawelo is often translated as the fire of Kawelo
Red, orange and purple-toned earth gives the area its striking color
Wind and erosion helped shape the scattered boulders and open terrain
Hawaiian stories and place traditions are connected with the landscape
Clear days can bring views toward Molokai, Maui and Oahu
Morning and late afternoon light can change the color of the rocks
Rough unpaved roads connect the area with Lanai City, Kanepu'u Preserve and Polihua Beach
Visitors should not remove rocks, stack stones or disturb the landscape

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Keahiakawelo located?

Keahiakawelo, also called Garden of the Gods, is located on northwest Lanai near Polihua Road.

Why is Keahiakawelo called Garden of the Gods?

The nickname comes from the unusual red-rock garden, where wind, erosion, open terrain and scattered boulders create a landscape unlike most other places in Hawaii.

What does Keahiakawelo mean?

Keahiakawelo is often translated as the fire of Kawelo, a name connected with Hawaiian stories and place traditions from Lanai.

Do visitors need four-wheel drive?

A suitable four-wheel-drive vehicle or approved tour is strongly recommended because the route uses rough, unpaved roads that can become difficult after rain.

Can visitors take rocks from Keahiakawelo?

No. Leave rocks, stones and natural features exactly where they are, and do not stack rocks or disturb the landscape.