Kaunolu
Kaunolu is a significant historic site on the island of Lanai, once an ancient Hawaiian fishing village and now home to the island's largest collection of archaeological ruins. Located on the southwestern coast, it features Halulu Heiau, a sacred temple, and Kahekili's Leap, a dramatic cliff from which warriors once demonstrated their bravery. Accessible only via four-wheel drive, Kaunolu offers a glimpse into Hawaii's cultural past and was a favorite retreat of King Kamehameha the Great.
Kaunolu, Lanai
Located on Lanai's southwestern tip, Kaunolu is an ancient Hawaiian fishing village that was abandoned in the 1880s. The main attraction here is the largest concentration of stone ruins on the island, including Halulu Heiau (ancient temple site). This Kaunolu Village archaeological site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. There is an interpretive trail that leads through the ancient village.
The Kaunolu Gulch is a freshwater stream that runs into the ocean here, which provided water for the village people. The offshore waters are deep and provide good fishing conditions. King Kamehameha the Great often times visited here and enjoyed the fishing. His house used to stand across the gulch from Halulu Heiau on the edge of a cliff. It is said that he used to hold ceremonies at the heiau between 1778 and 1810.
Kahekili, the high chief of Maui, also used to visit here during the late 1700s. Northwest of the heiau, look for a natural stone wall running along the sea cliff. Near the cliff's edge, there is a break in the wall and a steep 80-foot (24 m) drop, known as Kahekili's Jump. It was here where King Kamehameha the Great would test the courage of his warriors by making them jump into the surging waters below.
Key Features of Kaunolu
- Historic archaeological site: Contains Lanai's highest concentration of ancient ruins
- Halulu Heiau: Sacred temple site used for ceremonial purposes
- Kahekili's Leap: A legendary warrior cliff-jumping site used for testing courage
- King Kamehameha's legacy: Regularly visited by the king during his reign
- Remote location: Accessible via rugged 4WD road during dry weather only
- Population: Uninhabited historic site
- Zip code: 96763
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Kaunolu?
Kaunolu is located at the southwestern tip of Lanai. It's only accessible by four-wheel drive along an unpaved dirt road, recommended during dry weather.
What is Halulu Heiau?
Halulu Heiau is a large ancient Hawaiian temple located in Kaunolu. It was used for religious ceremonies and visited by King Kamehameha I.
What is Kahekili's Leap?
Kahekili's Leap is an 80-foot cliff where warriors once jumped into the ocean to prove their bravery. It's a key cultural landmark in Kaunolu.
Is Kaunolu open to visitors?
Yes, visitors can explore the site via an interpretive trail, but there are no facilities. Swimming is not advised due to rough waters and no beach access.