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Painting of historic ceremony at Puʻukoholā Heiau

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

Since: 1790 Open: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily Price: Free
campaign Danger: Park Closure – Tropical Storm Lala · +4 expand_more

Park Closure – Tropical Storm Lala — Due to the approaching Tropical Storm Lala, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is currently closed. The park will remain closed Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16. Please do not enter the park while the closure is in effect. Continue to monitor official weather infor

Cancelled: 2026 Hoʻokuʻikahi Hawaiian Cultural Festival — Due to an approaching tropical storm, this year’s Hoʻokuʻikahi Cultural Festival at Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site has been cancelled. We appreciate your understanding and encourage everyone to stay safe.

Helicopter LiDAR Survey on August 18 — A helicopter will conduct a LiDAR survey over Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site on August 18, 2026, between 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. for approximately 15 minutes. Normal park operations will continue during the survey.

New Park Hours — As of November 13, 2025, the new hours of operation at Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site are 8:30am –4:30pm. The parking lot gate will close at 4:00pm.

Phone Service Unavailable — Phone service at Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is currently unavailable. If you need to contact the park, please email us at puhe_info@nps.gov and a staff member will respond as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience while service is being restored.

park Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Introduction

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is a significant cultural landmark located on the Big Island of Hawaii. This site features the largest heiau, or temple, built in Hawaii, constructed in the late 18th century under King Kamehameha I to honor the war god Ku.

In pictures

Heiau standing high above Pelekane Bay, as seen at sunset.
Heiau standing high above Pelekane Bay, as seen at sunset.

Things to know

Expect limited parking, arrive early to secure a spot.
Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.
Wear comfortable shoes, as some paths are uneven.
Restrooms are available near the visitor center.

Good to know

Accessibility: partially accessible
Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily
Price: Free

Photo: Herb Kane