Ku'ilioloa Heiau

Ku'ilioloa Heiau is a sacred west Oahu site on Kane'ilio Point in Waianae, known for ocean views, three terraced platforms, navigation traditions and traveler-protection legends.

View overview Plan Your Visit

Ku'ilioloa Heiau, Oahu

Located on Kane'ilio Point, a small peninsula in Waianae, the Ku'ilioloa Heiau commands a wide view of Oahu's west shore. To the north is Pokai Bay and Lahilahi Point in the distance, and to the south are the Lualualei and Ma'ili beach parks.

The heiau has three terraced platforms and is believed to have been a temple of learning and training, mainly in the arts of fishing, navigation and other ocean-related skills.

In the Hawaiian language, Ku'ilioloa means “the long dog Ku.” It is believed that the heiau was named after a legendary dog who protected travelers.

Key Features

Sacred coastal heiau on Kane'ilio Point in Waianae
Three terraced stone platforms overlooking the west shore
Associated with fishing, navigation and ocean-related learning
Name connects with a protective traveler legend
Views toward Pokai Bay, Lahilahi Point and the Waianae shoreline
Short walk from the Pokai Bay Beach Park area
Do not climb on stonework, move rocks or disturb offerings

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Oahu Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ku'ilioloa Heiau?

Ku'ilioloa Heiau is on Kane'ilio Point in Waianae on Oahu's west shore, between Pokai Bay and Lualualei Beach Park.

What is Ku'ilioloa Heiau known for?

The heiau is known for three terraced platforms, ocean views and traditional connections with fishing, navigation and ocean-related learning.

What does Ku'ilioloa mean?

Ku'ilioloa is often translated as the long dog Ku. The name connects the site with a legendary dog figure said to have protected travelers.

How do visitors reach Ku'ilioloa Heiau?

Visitors can usually reach the site by walking from the Pokai Bay Beach Park area. Use legal parking and follow public access routes.

Can visitors climb on the heiau?

No. Visitors should not climb on the heiau, move stones, disturb offerings or treat the stone platforms as a lookout seat. View the site respectfully from safe areas.

What else is nearby?

Nearby places include Pokai Bay Beach Park, Lualualei Beach Park, Maili Beach Park, Waianae and other stops along Farrington Highway.