Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park

The magic of ancient Hawaii comes alive at one of its most sacred and beautiful sites. Allow yourself to be transported back to the 16th century–or perhaps just to a state of serenity–while wandering royal grounds where palm trees flank hallowed temples housing the bones of chiefs. Explore a palace, burial sites, fishponds, and huts at an abandoned village where handmade canoes lie in wait beneath thatched roofs. Savor the freedom of a tranquil stroll through the City of Refuge, a preserved sanctuary where condemned outlaws braved shark-infested waters to seek absolution from certain death. Today, this dramatic black lava peninsula is a different kind of haven–a vaguely mysterious, wonder-infused sanctum where giant wooden gods watch your every move and green sea turtles look on from nearby snorkeling beaches. While celebrating your own escape to this spectacular place, be sure to pause at this historical landmark where sanctity, culture, and scenery intertwine for an enchanting journey through time.

Review

This was on our radar for a place to stop. I was not disappointed it takes an hour or so to go through.If you have a smart phone you can scan the QR code for the audio tour, no smart phone you can dial in to the audio tour. It gives a great insight in to native Hawaiian culture. My daughter and I learned how to play Konane (Hawaiian checkers) , for the rest of the vacation we had to stop and play everytime she saw a Konane board. I have to give a shout out to the park ranger Julia, my kid does the junior ranger program at all the parks we visit and one of the requirements at this park was to do an activity with a ranger. Julia was so awesome, She spent over a half hour with my daughter one on one doing a native craft when they were complete she went out of her way to laminate the craft. I have to say you could tell she(Julia) genuinely enjoyed doing this activity. This is also right next to 2 step for snorkling,you can leave your car in the parking lot and walk over to 2 step.

Reviewed by: deilert on Tripadvisor.com