Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Grab your binoculars and set out on a birdwatching adventure along the Kona coastline. See the vibrant yellow saffron finch, hear the boisterous calls of the common Myna, and watch as the ʻAukuʻu (black crowned night heron) slightly stalks its prey.

Grab your binoculars and set out on a birdwatching adventure along the South Kona coastline. See the vibrant yellow saffron finch, hear the boisterous calls of the common Myna, and watch as the ʻAukuʻu (black crowned night heron) slightly stalks its prey in the Royal Ponds.

Experience a taste of life in ancient Hawaiʻi as National Park Service staff and cultural practitioners demonstrate traditional Hawaiian craft techniques and practices such as weaving, carving, lei making, games, and more! Become inspired by the authentic!

Hidden in cracks, pools, and depressions within the lava rock shoreline are miniature underwater worlds for you to explore. See bright yellow lauʻipala (yellow tang) darting through pools, hāʻukeʻuke (shingle urchins) holding fast to the rocks pummeled by waves, loli (sea cucumbers) stretched out along the bottoms, elusive puhi (eels) peeking out from rocky depths, and more!

The rugged lava shoreline of the South Kona coast beckons you to explore the backcountry trails of the park. Have you ever imagined visiting a historic abandoned Hawaiian village? Come and experience this special and unique area. Step back in time. The ocean will whisper ancient stories from the past as you pass by places used by people of long ago.

Peahea ka hoʻonanenane? Want to test your wits? Play a game of kōnane on the shores of Hōnaunau Bay with your ʻohana (family). This game can be learned in minutes, but may take a lifetime to master.

Relax in the shade of coconut trees as you enjoy the picturesque setting of the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau picnic area. Bring your whole ʻohana (family) for a beach picnic and make memories as you explore in the shallow tide pools in the lava rock. Watch for a "green flash" as the sun sinks below the horizon and a rainbow of colors light up the sky during sunset.

Journey back to ancient Hawaiʻi and walk in the footsteps the ancestors. Explore the Royal Grounds, which were once reserved for the chiefdom of Kona. See the intricate masonry of the Great Wall. Find tranquility in the Pu'uhonua, where breakers of kapu (religious law) sought forgiveness and people found refuge during war. Learn about Hawaiian history and culture while surrounded by scenic views of coastal Hawaiʻi.

The clear blue waters of Hōnaunau Bay hold spectacular wonders of the underwater world. Spinner dolphins with their amazing acrobatics frequent the bay, eels and octopus lurk in the cracks and crevices of the reef, and a colorful variety of fish flourish among the corals. Come explore the depths at "Two Step," located just outside of Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.