Destinations
Hawaiʻi Island · South Kona
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
For centuries, anyone who broke a kapu (sacred law) faced death, unless they could reach a puʻuhonua, a place of refuge. Here on the South Kona coast, those who made it past the great stone wall could be absolved by a priest and return home. Defeated warriors and families fleeing battle found safety here too.
Puʻuhonua · A place of refuge ·
Puʻuhonua · A place of refuge ·
Walk the Refuge
Visiting With Respect
Know Before You Go
- This is a sacred place. Don’t climb on walls or structures, and leave rocks where they lie.
- Picnics, coolers, and chairs aren’t allowed in the Royal Grounds. Picnic areas are south of the main site.
- Honu (green sea turtles) often rest on the shore. Give them plenty of space.
- Next door, Hōnaunau Bay (“Two Step”) is a popular snorkel spot outside the park. The park’s lot is for park visitors, there is no lifeguard, and spinner dolphins rest in the bay, so please don’t chase them.
Plan Your Visit
Fees and passes
$20 per vehicle or $10 per person on foot or bike, valid for 7 days. The Tri-Park Annual Pass covers this park, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes, and Haleakalā.
Parking and connectivity
The lot can fill on busy days. Cell service is spotty, so download a digital pass before you arrive.
Nearby stops
St. Benedict’s Painted Church is a few minutes up the hill, and The Coffee Shack in Captain Cook serves breakfast and lunch with a view over Kealakekua Bay.
