Ulupo Heiau
Ulupo Heiau is a massive and sacred Hawaiian temple site located in Kailua, O'ahu. Believed to have been built as early as the 1400s, it was initially an agricultural heiau and later used for ceremonies related to war and governance. Standing up to 30 feet high, this heiau is known for its towering lava rock terraces, spiritual significance, and proximity to Kawainui Marsh, a thriving area of traditional taro cultivation and native restoration.
Ulupo Heiau, Oahu
The Ulupo Heiau on Oahu is a large Hawaiian heiau, or temple site, located in Kailua, right next to the Kawainui Regional Park and off of Kailua Road. Its walls are up to 30 feet in height and it measures 140 by 180 feet. Some Hawaiian heiaus were used as a place for sacrifice, others to celebrate a good harvest or the birth of alii. It is assumed that the function of the Ulupo Heiau changed over time. It probably was an agricultural heiau in the beginning and in later times it may have become a heiau dedicated to success in war.
The heiau is quite massive and required a large workforce, which is a hint that it must have been culturally important. The large individual rocks all had to be carried here. One stone is recorded to have been brought to the heiau all the way from Kualoa, which is more than 10 miles away. Today, the Ulupo Heiau is listed on the National and Hawaii Registers of Historic Places. It remains a sacred site for the Hawaiian people.
If you come here, you’ll enjoy nice views of Kailua Bay and the Kawai Nui Swamp. Many fruit trees grow at the heiau, such as bananas and noni. Taro is also being grown here. Show respect when you visit the heiau and stay on the trails.
Key Features of Ulupo Heiau
- Large temple platform: Massive lava rock structure measuring 140 by 180 feet with walls up to 30 feet high.
- Agricultural and political significance: Originally dedicated to Lono for farming success; later repurposed for rituals linked to war and rulership.
- Restoration and cultivation: Surrounded by traditional Hawaiian crops like kalo (taro), banana, and noni as part of community restoration efforts.
- Sacred cultural landmark: Listed on both the National and Hawai'i Registers of Historic Places and respected by practitioners and visitors alike.
- Accessible location in Kailua: Adjacent to Kawainui Marsh and Kailua Road with informative signs and scenic views of Kailua Bay.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ulupo Heiau used for?
Ulupo Heiau began as an agricultural temple dedicated to Lono and was later used for political and warfare-related rituals tied to ruling chiefs.
How big is Ulupo Heiau?
The heiau measures about 140 by 180 feet, with walls reaching up to 30 feet in height, making it one of the largest on O'ahu.
What can I see around the heiau?
Surrounding the site are banana trees, taro patches, and native flora cultivated by local groups to honor traditional Hawaiian agriculture.
Where is it located?
Ulupo Heiau is in Kailua, right off Kailua Road near Kawainui Regional Park and Manu 'o'o Street.
Is it okay to walk on the heiau?
No. As a sacred site, visitors are asked to stay on designated trails and not walk on or climb the rock structures.