Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
Kawaihae, HI
A large stone temple built by Kamehameha I in 1790–91 on a hill above Kawaihae Bay. Visitors view it from a short trail, as entry to the heiau is not allowed; sharks often cruise the bay below.
- Nearest town
- Kawaihae, HI
- Category
- History & culture
- GPS
- 20.0266, -155.8215
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually December–February. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–June and September–November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
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Campsites nearby
- Malama KiholoCampsite14 mi from Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
All campsites in Hawaii · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site?
Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is in Kawaihae, HI, at GPS 20.0266, -155.8215. It is about 29 mi from Kailua-Kona.
Can you camp near Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Malama Kiholo, about 14 mi away; within 25 mi there are 1 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site?
Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Kohala and the Hāmākua Coast: Kona to Hilo the northern way.
What is there to see near Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site?
Places worth a stop nearby: Pololū Valley Lookout (14 mi), Waipiʻo Valley Lookout (17 mi), ʻAkaka Falls State Park (45 mi) and Rainbow Falls, Hilo (51 mi).
When is the best time to visit Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site?
The most pleasant months are usually December–February. Still fine, with some compromises, in March–June and September–November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)