Oahu Ancient Site Guide

Ulupo Heiau

Ulupo Heiau is a massive stone heiau in Kailua on windward Oahu, known for its broad lava-rock platform, wetland setting and deep Hawaiian history.

Plan Your Visit

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

Large stone heiau in Kailua on windward Oahu
Set near Kawainui Marsh and wetland scenery
Known for its broad lava-rock platform
Part of Kailua's older Hawaiian cultural landscape
Inland setting, not a beach or swimming area
Short visit with uneven ground near the stonework
Morning light often shows the marsh and Ko'olau backdrop well
Respectful behavior is important at the site
Close to Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai for nearby beach time

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Ulupo Heiau different from many Oahu ancient sites?

Its scale stands out. The heiau is built as a large raised stone platform, and the setting beside Kawainui Marsh gives it a strong sense of place.

Why is Kawainui Marsh important near Ulupo Heiau?

Kawainui Marsh is one of Oahu's major wetlands and was part of a productive traditional landscape in Kailua, with water, agriculture and settlement connected nearby.

Is Ulupo Heiau connected with Kailua's older history?

Yes. The heiau is part of the older cultural landscape of Kailua, long before the area became a modern beach town.

What should visitors photograph at Ulupo Heiau?

The best photos usually show the broad rock platform, green wetland edge and Ko'olau mountain backdrop rather than close-ups of individual stones.

How should visitors behave at Ulupo Heiau?

Treat it as a cultural site. Do not climb on unstable stones, move rocks, leave offerings that can become litter or mark any part of the site.