Phallic Rock
Phallic Rock, known in Hawaiian as Kaule o Nanahoa, is a culturally significant fertility site located in Pala'au State Park on Molokai. This naturally shaped rock formation resembles a male phallus and is steeped in legend and spiritual tradition. The short hike from Kalaupapa Lookout leads visitors through a peaceful ironwood forest to this ancient site where women still come to pray for fertility today.
Phallic Rock (Kaule o Nanahoa), Molokai
This is an ancient Hawaiian site of love and fertility. The Phallic Rock (its Hawaiian name is Kaule o Nanahoa, meaning “the penis of Nanahoa”) has been standing erect for generations at what is now known as the Pala'au State Park. It can easily be reached by walking on a short forest trail from the Kakaupapa Lookout parking lot (a 5-minute walk).
An ancient legend tells of the male fertility god Nanahoa, who lived in this area. His wife Kawahuna one day caught Nanahoa admiring a young girl. She got upset and pulled the girl by her hair. Nanahoa then got mad and struck his wife, who then fell down the cliff and turned into stone. Nanahoa then turned into the stone you see today, the Phallic Rock.
In the ancient Hawaii infertile women came here to pray, bring offerings and spend the night in hopes of conceiving a child. Even today women still come here in hopes of getting pregnant soon.
Key Features of Phallic Rock
- Fertility site: Ancient location where women came - and still come - to pray for conception.
- Natural rock formation: Resembles a phallus and stands about 5 feet tall, believed to have been subtly shaped by ancient Hawaiians.
- Hawaiian legend: Associated with the fertility god Nanahoa and his wife Kawahuna, who turned to stone after a tragic tale.
- Easy forest walk: Accessible via a short trail (about 5 minutes) from Kalaupapa Lookout parking area in Pala'au State Park.
- Nearby landmark: A second boulder nearby is said to resemble female genitalia, enhancing the site's symbolic meaning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Phallic Rock?
Phallic Rock is a naturally shaped stone formation representing male fertility. It is a sacred Hawaiian site historically visited by women seeking to become pregnant.
How do I get to Phallic Rock?
The site is located in Pala'au State Park. A short 5-minute trail through ironwood trees starts from the Kalaupapa Lookout parking lot.
How tall is the rock?
Phallic Rock stands about 5 feet tall from the ground to its rounded tip.
Is there anything else to see nearby?
Yes, visitors can also see the nearby Kalaupapa Lookout and another sacred stone formation believed to represent female genitalia.
Is it respectful to visit this site?
Yes, as long as visitors treat the area with reverence, avoid touching offerings, and remain quiet, it is respectful to visit this culturally significant place.