Learn About the Park

Lele platform with ocean in the background — NPS Photo

Pu'ukoholā Heiau, one of the last major temples built in the Hawaiian Islands, was constructed by Kamehameha the Great from 1790 to 1791. Arguably one of the greatest leaders in Hawaiian History, Kamehameha became the first person to unite the warring islands into the Kingdom of Hawai'i. Pu'ukoholā Heiau played a crucial role in the unification of the Hawaiian Islands, for Kamehameha built the temple as a result of a prophecy that came through a priest named Kapoukahi. This kahuna, or priest, told Kamehameha that if he were to build a heiau on the hill known as Pu'ukoholā, and dedicate it to his family’s war god Kūkā'ilimoku, he would be able to conquer all of the islands.

It is said that thousands and thousands of men labored for nearly a year to construct this heiau. Through the stories that have been passed down generation to generation, we believe that the builders brought these rocks from the distant Pololū Valley, Forming a human chain nearly 25 miles long, the laborers handed the water-worn lava rocks one person to another up and over Kohala Mountain to this site. Without the use of mortar, cement or other bonding materials, these skilled laborers placed these rocks in exact locations in order to meet specific building specifications.

To learn more about the park—including the people, places, and natural resources that contribute to our historic significance—click the links below. For an immersive learning experience, check out our audio tour. And if you're on your way, use our helpful resources to Plan Your Visit or Get Involved.