This site has panoramic views of central Maui and consists of two heiaus: Haleki‘i Heiau and Pihanakalani Heiau. Haleki‘i Heiau was rebuilt in 1958 with the goal of replicating the original structure as it looked when it was built, which is thought to have occurred around A.D. 1200. Today the lava foundations and remains of these ancient temples provide a glimpse into Hawaii’s past.
King Kamehameha I’s sacred wife Queen Keopuolani was born at this site, and it was also the residence of Kahekili, a famous warrior who was also the last ruling chief of Maui. Pihanakalani was a luakini heiau where human sacrifices were performed, and the rising warrior who would become King Kamehameha came to Pihanakalani after a major battle and made an offering to his war god Ku.
Need To Know
The heiaus are now are listed on the State and National Registry of Historic Places. A 1/2-mile walk around the site takes about 20 minutes. These sites are among Maui’s most accessible cultural sites, which also provide great views of central Maui including Wailuku and Kahului. Halekii-Pihana State Monument is an important Hawaiian cultural site and should not be disrupted in any way. Please do not climb on or remove any stones. Admission is free. There are no facilities on the site.
Access
Directions to Halekii-Pihana State Monument: In the town of Wailuku take Waiehu Beach Road (Hwy. 340) to Kuhio Place and go left, then turn left onto Hea Place where you will see an entrance sign.