Hale o Keawe is a sacred site within Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island. This royal mausoleum held the bones of 23 aliʻi, or chiefs, and was associated with great spiritual power, known as mana. Look for the carved wooden figures and a nearby model that shows the inside of the building, which visitors cannot enter. The grounds sit beside a bay once reserved for chiefs. Rangers and interpretive signs help explain the site’s place in Hawaiian history.
A mausoleum within the royal grounds
Hale o Keawe is part of Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. The building served as a royal mausoleum for the bones of 23 aliʻi, or chiefs. Their presence gave the site great spiritual power, called mana.
The bay in front of the temple was considered sacred, and only chiefs were permitted to land there. The surrounding royal grounds extended inland from the shore. A large wall at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau marks the division between Hōnaunau, the royal grounds, and Puʻuhonua, the refuge area.
Carvings and nearby remains
Wooden carvings around Hale o Keawe offer details to look at as you walk the grounds. The building itself is not open to visitors, but a small model nearby lets you see its interior.
The wider area preserves traces of earlier settlement. Near Keokea, once a coastal village, remains include two heiau, a holua, and burial cliffs. Within the park’s southern boundary, part of Kiʻilae Village was occupied from prehistoric times until 1926.
FAQ
Can you go inside Hale o Keawe?
No. The building is not open to visitors, but a small model nearby shows its interior.
What is Hale o Keawe?
It is a sacred royal mausoleum within Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. It held the bones of 23 aliʻi, or chiefs.
Can you snorkel near Hale o Keawe?
A snorkeling spot known as Two Step is nearby. Bring swimwear if you plan to go in the water.
How long should you plan for a visit?
The site has been described as a half-day outing, particularly if you also plan to snorkel nearby.
