Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site

Highlights

  • Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site, overlooking Kawainui Marsh, is a sacred and ancient Hawaiian temple dedicated to the god Kane, showcasing the intersection of spirituality and agriculture.
  • With meticulous lava rock construction, the heiau served as a ceremonial center and played a crucial role in managing taro fields, reflecting the engineering skills and cultural significance of early Hawaiians.
  • Today, the site stands as a symbol of cultural preservation, offering a tranquil environment for reflection, educational exploration, and a deep understanding of Hawaii's indigenous culture and its enduring connection to the land.

Standing stoic like a sentinel across time, a weathered giant whispers tales of forgotten rituals and potent deities. This is Ulupo Heiau, a sacred space carved from stone by the hands of a vanished people. A tapestry of ancient wisdom is woven within its moss-kissed walls, inviting you to step into a vibrant past beyond the reach of mere memory.

Ancient Spiritual Nexus

Ulupo Heiau is a significant spiritual site that served as a ceremonial center for the Native Hawaiians. Dedicated to the god Kane, it played a pivotal role in religious rituals, ceremonies, and offerings aimed at ensuring agricultural prosperity and community well-being.

Agricultural Significance

Beyond its spiritual role, Ulupo Heiau holds agricultural importance. It was strategically positioned to overlook Kawainui Marsh, acting as a central point for managing and overseeing the cultivation of the taro fields, a staple crop in Hawaiian culture.

Meticulous Construction

The heiau's construction reflects the meticulous craftsmanship of the early Hawaiians. The lava rock walls, carefully stacked without mortar, stand as a testament to the engineering skills and cultural significance attributed to these sacred structures.

Cultural Preservation

Today, Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site stands as a symbol of cultural preservation. Interpretive signs provide insights into the heiau's history, significance, and the intricate connection between spirituality and agriculture in ancient Hawaiian society.

Tranquil Surroundings

The site's location near the expansive Kawainui Marsh offers visitors a serene and contemplative environment. Surrounded by lush greenery and the echoes of ancient rituals, the heiau invites reflection on Hawaii's indigenous culture and the deep connection between the land and its people.

Educational Exploration

Ulupo Heiau welcomes both locals and visitors to engage in educational exploration. Guided tours and interpretive programs offer a deeper understanding of the heiau's cultural importance, providing a bridge between the past and the present.

Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site stands as a sacred portal to Hawaii's ancient culture, where spirituality, agriculture, and craftsmanship converged. As visitors traverse its historic grounds, they embark on a journey that honors the legacy of the early Hawaiians and the enduring significance of this sacred site.

1200 Kailua Rd
Kailua, HI 96734
(808) 587-0300

Activities

Sightseeing

Amenities

Fees

Entrance Fee : None