Pu‘u o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site Honolulu
Explore Oahu's largest ancient Hawaiian religious site, offering stunning coastal views and a deep connection to history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light & fewer crowds
Pu‘u o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site Honolulu
Best Time
Golden hour light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Oahu's largest ancient Hawaiian religious site, offering stunning coastal views and a deep connection to history.
"The views are amazing and this place should be a historic site with rangers protecting it."
🚗 Accessing the Site
Take Pupukea Road, turn right at the top of the hill. Follow the long driveway with speed bumps to a small parking lot.
🚶♀️ Stay on the Trails
Respect the sacred grounds by staying on marked paths and not disturbing the ruins or leaving unauthorized items.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Overlooks
Breathtaking vistas of Waimea Bay and Valley, offering a stunning perspective of Oahu's North Shore.
Ancient Heiau Ruins
Main site
Explore the remnants of Oahu's largest ancient Hawaiian religious site, a place of historical and spiritual significance.
Pillbox Trail
Western trail
A short hike leading to a historic pillbox, offering a different perspective and a glimpse into military history.
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Sacred Site
Timing is Key for Views and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Accessing the Site
Take Pupukea Road, turn right at the top of the hill. Follow the long driveway with speed bumps to a small parking lot.
🚶♀️ Stay on the Trails
Respect the sacred grounds by staying on marked paths and not disturbing the ruins or leaving unauthorized items.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Waimea Bay are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset. 
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
If it has rained recently, trails can be muddy. Wear appropriate footwear for hiking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Accessing the Site
Take Pupukea Road, turn right at the top of the hill. Follow the long driveway with speed bumps to a small parking lot.
🚶♀️ Stay on the Trails
Respect the sacred grounds by staying on marked paths and not disturbing the ruins or leaving unauthorized items.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Waimea Bay are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset.
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
If it has rained recently, trails can be muddy. Wear appropriate footwear for hiking.
🕰️ Gate Hours
The site is typically open from 7 AM to 5 PM, but you can often walk in if the gate is closed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Waimea Bay and the historical significance of the ancient heiau ruins. Many appreciate the opportunity to learn about Hawaiian culture and the spiritual energy of the site. However, some note concerns about the site's upkeep and lack of detailed interpretive information.
"Quick trail and stop to learn about hawaiian history. One trail goes to a pillbox and one trail leads to a beautiful view overlooking Wailea bay and valley that's worth checking out. Stay on the trail."
Diego DeLaGarza
"Awesome spot above Waimea Valley where you can learn about Hawaiian culture amidst the ruins of an old temple. There's a half mile trail around the ruins with offshoots that take you to overlooks with spectacular views of the coast and valley below. The gate is open from 7am - 5pm daily - if it's closed then you can still walk in along the paved route. Well worth a visit."
Helen Marquis
"It's got the most beautiful views of Music and the waters below but the drive on the private road can get tricky if there are more than 3 cars on it, simultaneously.
Fortunately, we were there during the lunch shift and only 2 other cars pulled into the parking lot at the end of the private road. I worry that more visitors won't heed the signs that request staying on the path, not leaving stones, not touching the temple perimeter walls, etc. I don't get the serene vibes that others have commented, but I still enjoyed the natural preservation of the site."
Becky Monte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Pu'u o Mahuka Heiau, take Pupukea Road and turn right at the top of the hill. Follow a long driveway with speed bumps to a small parking lot at the end. This route offers a scenic approach to the historic site.
Yes, there is a small parking lot at the end of the private driveway leading to the site. It can get crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
The site is generally open from 7 AM to 5 PM. If the gate is closed, you can often still access the site by walking in along the paved route.
The drive on the private road can be tricky if there are many cars. It's best to go up Pupukea Road and turn right at the top of the hill.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of reaching the site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pu'u o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site is generally free to enter. There are no ticket purchase requirements for general admission.
The site is typically open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM. However, it's always a good idea to check for any unexpected closures before your visit.
No, there is no entrance fee for Pu'u o Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site. It is a public historical park.
While the gates may be closed, visitors can often still access the site by walking in. However, it's best to adhere to the official operating hours for safety and respect.
Visitors are asked to respect the sacred nature of the site. This includes staying on marked trails, not disturbing ruins, and not leaving unauthorized offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the ruins of Oahu's largest ancient Hawaiian religious site, enjoy spectacular views of Waimea Bay and Valley, and hike a short trail to a historic pillbox.
Yes, there is a half-mile trail around the ruins with offshoots to overlooks. There's also a trail leading to a pillbox.
This 17th-century site was the largest religious structure on Oahu, used for important ceremonies and sacrifices. It's a place of strong cultural and spiritual energy.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms is limited. It's advisable to come prepared with water and any personal necessities.
Yes, children can enjoy the scenic views and the short trails. However, ensure they understand the importance of respecting the historical site and staying on paths.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlooks offering panoramic views of Waimea Bay and Valley are prime photography locations. The ancient ruins themselves also make for compelling shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting for photography, with golden hour hues enhancing the natural beauty.
While generally permitted, be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography and always respect the environment and any visitors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Hawaii State Parks for any specific rules regarding drone operation at historic sites.
Expect stunning landscape shots of the coastline and valley, as well as historical photos of the ancient stone structures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to educate children about the cultural significance of the site and the importance of respecting the ancient ruins. Emphasize staying on marked paths and not touching or moving any stones. Visiting during the morning or late afternoon can help avoid the midday sun and potential crowds, making the experience more comfortable for younger visitors.
📸 Photographers
+1Be prepared for varying light conditions and potential wind. The trails offer different vantage points, so explore them to find your perfect shot. Remember to be respectful of the site and other visitors while capturing its beauty. Drone photography might be subject to regulations, so check local rules beforehand.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Pu'u o Mahuka Heiau
+1Visitors often report feeling a strong sense of 'mana' (spiritual power) at the site. This palpable energy is attributed to its historical use and the natural beauty surrounding it. While some reviews mention a sense of abandonment or lack of interpretation, the enduring presence of the stone structures and the breathtaking landscape speak volumes about its past. It's a place that invites contemplation and respect for the ancient Hawaiian culture.
When visiting, remember that this is a sacred space. The advice to stay on marked trails and not disturb the ruins is paramount. While some may wish to leave offerings, it's crucial to do so respectfully and in accordance with cultural practices, rather than leaving modern trinkets. The true offering is respect for the history and spirit of the place.
Navigating the Site and Its Trails
+1For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, there are a couple of trails. A short, half-mile loop trail winds around the heiau ruins, allowing you to get a closer look at the ancient stone structures. There's also a separate trail that leads to a historic pillbox, offering a different perspective and a touch of military history. Some visitors have noted that the trails can become muddy after rain, so wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.
It's important to note that while the site is a public park, the access road is private and can be narrow. Visitors are advised to drive cautiously and be mindful of other vehicles. The parking area at the end of the road is relatively small, so arriving early or during off-peak hours can help avoid congestion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit