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Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site

»Contact Information
»Getting There
»Weather
»Activities
The founding of the Hawaiian kingdom can be directly associated with one structure in the Hawaiian Islands: Pu'ukohola Heiau. The temple was constructed to incur the favor of the war god Kuka'ilimoku. Built between 1790-91 by Kamehameha I (also known as Kamehameha the Great), together with chiefs, commoners, men, women and children. As British sailor John Young looked on, the temple was built and dedicated, a chief rival was sacrificed, and the war god Ku was pleased. Kamehameha I waged several subsequent battles using Western military strategy and weapons to extend his control over all Hawaiian Islands. The monarchy he established lasted 83 years, from 1810-1893.
Authorized by Congress on August 17, 1972 (86 Stat.562.)Acreage - 85.30; federal 60.93, non-federal 24.37. Pu'ukohola Heiau and property of John Young who fought for Kamehameha during the period of his ascendancy to power.









Contact Information

Pu'ukohola Heiau NHS
P. O. Box 44340
Kawaihae, HI 96743
808-882-7218 - Headquarters
808-882-7218X23 - Visitor Information


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Getting There

By Plane
Keahole international airport by inter-island carriers and some major airlines have direct flights from the continental U.S.

By Car
The park is on the northwestern shore of the island of Hawaii in the district of south Kohala. The access road to the visitor center is located on 62-3601 Kawaihae Road, off Route 270. One-quarter mile (.4km) north of Highway 19 intersection.

By Plane
Taxis, tour buses, and rental cars. Rental cars may be rented at Hilo and Kona airports.

Getting Around
For your safety stay on the trails and do not climb on archaeological structures. The trail from the visitor center is long, hot and rugged. If you are not physically fit and dressed properly, do not attempt the hike.

Weather

Sunny, hot, and dry throughout the year. Winter months are a little cooler. Wear light clothing and walking shoes. Use some type of sunscreen for skin protection.


Activities

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.
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  • Educational Programs
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Swimming
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Bird Watching
  • Nature Walks
  • Snorkeling

Recommended Activities
In addition to visiting the heiau built by Kamehameha I and the site of John Young's homestead, you can sight see, hike, and bird watch. In winter and spring you can enjoy whale watching and shark sightings.


 
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RV Information
Are you planning on traveling with your RV? If you are, you should check out the Good Sam Club. The Good Sam Club offers discounts on camping, a free magazine subscription and great tips on traveling with your RV. You can also get a free no-obligation RV Insurance quote . Give them a look and enjoy your trip.
Gear Up For Your Trip
Once you have finished deciding where to go, it will be time to gear up. A great place for adventure travel gear is The National Geographic Store. They have all types of maps and guides to help finalize your vacation plans.