Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park preserves a former refuge site from the times of an older Hawaii. The sanctuary was a place where lawbreakers could go to escape punishment. There were walls surrounding the Hale o Keawe temple, which held the bones of chiefs and was said to give the sacred place their power. The site is considered sacred even today, and visitors should act respectful and refrain from loud or unmannered behavior while there. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the grounds and the Pu’uhonua. Those who are looking for more of a challenge can hike the back country trails to other historic sites from Hawaii’s past. Fishing and picnicking is permitted in the park’s picnic area.

1871 Trail, Captain Cook, HI 96704, Phone: 808-328-2326

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