Kāneiʻolouma Heiau is an ancient Hawaiian village site at the corner of Poipu Road and Hoowili Road in Poipu, on Kauaʻi. Restoration work has brought parts of the site back into view, while much of it remains closed to visitors. From the viewing platform, look for the stone-built remains and the open Kahua arena, where sports and ceremonies honored gods and chiefs. Interpretive information helps explain the site’s cultural history, including its association with the 15th-century king Manokalanipo.
A village site under restoration
Kāneiʻolouma Heiau occupies a 13-acre area at the corner of Poipu Road and Hoowili Road. Hawaiian cultural practitioners brought the site to attention after it had remained hidden in plain sight. Restoration has been under way since stewardship was granted in 2012 to Hui Malama O Kaneiolouma, a local cultural nonprofit. Its work aims to preserve the site and share it with the public.
Much of the area is closed to visitors. A viewing platform gives a view of restoration work without requiring access to the restricted sections. Interpretive information on site helps explain what is visible. Take time to study the stonework, where some of the structures and designs may not be obvious at first glance.
What the archaeological remains reveal
Archaeological evidence across the site includes house platforms, fishponds, taro fields, irrigation systems, shrines and a games arena. The walled temple that once stood here measured 130 by 90 feet and was dedicated to Kāne, Hulukoki, Kū-hai-moana and Ka-moho-aliʻi, deities associated with the site.
Kahua, the open arena, is a distinctive part of the complex. Sports and events held there honoured gods and chiefs. The site is also linked to Manokalanipo, a great king of the 15th century. Four 16-foot kiʻi statues stand at the corner of Poipu and Hoowili roads; they represent Hawaiian gods.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Kāneiʻolouma Heiau?
It is at the corner of Poipu Road and Hoowili Road in Poipu, on Kauaʻi.
Can visitors enter the whole site?
No. Much of the site is closed to visitors, but a viewing platform provides a view of restoration work.
What can you see at Kāneiʻolouma Heiau?
The site has archaeological remains of homes, fishponds, taro fields, irrigation systems, shrines and an arena. Four 16-foot kiʻi statues stand at the corner of Poipu and Hoowili roads.
