A - Hōnaunau Holua

Would you test your bravery and sled down the hōlua?

NPS Photo / Herb Kane Drawing

Quick Facts

Location:

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Take a look up mauka (towards the mountain). See that rectangular patch of rocks? That's a hōlua sledding track. Heʻe hōlua, "sled surfing," or "land sledding," was a popular sport in Hawaiʻi. A hōlua slide was made of dry-laid local stones taking advantage of the natural inclines or hills to create a long-sloped ramp that was then covered in fresh soil and reeds making a slick surface which was then lubricated with kukui (candlenut) oil.

Individual riders rode down the slide on a papa hōlua (sled), often reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour (96.6 kph) The papa hōlua was carved from wood and was long and narrow in shape with two runners held apart by crosspieces. Two smaller rails sat on top of the crosspieces and acted as a platform. The whole sled was lashed together with coconut fiber. The sled could be as long as 14 feet (4.3 m) and weigh as much as 50 pounds (22.7 kg). See a replica of a papa hōlua in the bookstore at the visitor center.

The papa hōlua's design allowed riders a choice of different riding techniques on their journey to the bottom of the slide, with two techniques being the most popular. Riders using the first technique would stand sideways on the papa hōlua, kick with one foot to launch themselves, and then put both feet on the sled and extend their arms for balance – much like a modern snowboard rider. Sliders using the second technique would jump onto the papa hōlua chest-down, face forward, and grip the narrow sled tightly for control. Both techniques allowed skilled sliders to steer the papa hōlua by shifting their body weight. Control of the papa hōlua was essential as a mistake or loss of control meant injury or possible death.

He'e hōlua was a prestigious sport in the Hawaiian Islands. It was played mostly during Makahiki, the four-month winter New Year's celebration in honor of the akua (god) Lono, and only the Hawaiian ali'i (chiefs) were allowed to compete in the races.

Would you be brave enough to test your skill on the papa hōlua?