Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park preserves an extensive coastal complex on the Kona coast of Hawaiʻi island that once functioned as a place of refuge under ancient Hawaiian law. The park conserves walled enclosures, ceremonial spaces and shoreline features associated with royal use and legal sanctuary.

On-site highlights include the reconstructed thatched structures within the central enclosure, interpreted archaeological remains, and the canoe landing and coastal environment that supported traditional access. The park emphasizes cultural interpretation, archaeological preservation and respectful presentation of Hawaiian cultural practices.

The National Park Service administers the site as a protected historical park and visitor destination. It is located on the west coast of the island of Hawaiʻi near the village of Hōnaunau and is part of the network of cultural and natural sites on the Kona coastline.

• NPS management and cultural function: Managed by the U.S. National Park Service, the park preserves a ceremonial complex used historically as a place of refuge under the traditional kapu system.

What to See #

• Place of Refuge and royal grounds: The central walled enclosure that served as the place of refuge and royal grounds, featuring reconstructed thatched structures and ceremonial spaces.
• Canoe landing and shoreline features: A coastal canoe landing area and shoreline features that provided access by sea and were integral to the site's traditional function.
• Trails and interpretive areas: Interpretive trails and preserved archaeological features that explain the kapu system and social practices of pre-contact Hawaiʻi.