This awesome park is an ancient place of refuge – or puʻuhonua, a sanctuary where kapu (taboo)-breakers could have their lives spared. A half-mile walking tour encompasses major sites – the visitor center provides a brochure map with cultural information. You enter the park in the village-like royal grounds, where Kona aliʻi (chiefs) and their warriors lived; the spiritual atmosphere is greatly enhanced by gently breaking waves and wind-rustled palms. Throughout the grounds are wooden kiʻi (deity images) standing up to 15ft high.
©Greg Elms/Lonely Planet
Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
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Nearby South Kona Coast attractions
1. Keoneʻele Cove
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2. Hale o Keawe Heiau
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