Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

State park · Pupukea

Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

State park · Pupukea

59-818 Kamehameha Hwy #96712, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Highlights

Nestled on a bluff, Pu‘u O Mahuka Heiau is O‘ahu’s largest ancient temple, offering breathtaking views of Waimea Bay and rich Hawaiian history.

59-818 Kamehameha Hwy #96712, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Get directions

dlnr.hawaii.gov

@travelleisure

Seclusion, Surf, and Shrimp on Oahu's North Shore

"The Hawaiian Islands are home to many heiau, or temples, honoring everything from fertility to good fishing, agriculture, healing, and prosperity. Wind your way up the steep switchbacks of Pupukea Road to find the Pu‘u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site, perched on a bluff overlooking Waimea Bay. The largest of O‘ahu’s temples, Pu‘u O Mahuka, which translates as “Hill of Escape,” is thought to be a luakini heiau, a place of ceremonial sacrifice for success in war. Step lightly at this sacred site and feel the island mana while drinking in the sweeping views of the valley, mountains, and vast sapphire Pacific." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/island-vacations/oahu-north-shore-kamehameha-highway

View Postcard for Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

@afar

"Oahu's Largest Ancient Temple The cultural site is home to Pu‘u o Mahuka, Oahu’s largest heiau, or ancient temple. The site has beautiful panoramic views, and you can look out to Waimea Bay, which is cool when the waves are big. — Hoku Haiku Off Pupukea Rd. This appeared in the June/July 2013 issue. Read more about Hoku Haiku’s North Shore neighborhood in Oahu. By Afar Magazine"

History, Art, and Architecture on Oahu

View Postcard for Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site

Helen Marquis

Google

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.

Tyrone Kuziw

Google

When you first arrive at this beautiful ancient ruins, you truly respect the time spent here , imagining this place 250 years ago with many different events held in the sacred space the beauty you see through the ocean is felt when you lay eyes upon the remaining foundation, a truly special place respect, natural beauty, and the historical importance of this site Aloha

Chris Bloomfield

Google

Strong mana, great view, sad to see it mostly abandoned. I am guessing that whoever controls the valley doesn't care about this important cultural site, which is sad. The view of the bay and valley are amazing and this place should be a historic site with rangers protecting it and educating people on why it is significant. Instead it is overgrown with not much info on why it was important. It was the largest religious structure on the island, yet it received three signs with information. There is a small trail to a power pole and a tiny overlook to the valley. Someone added fencing and gates to restrict access to he valley, so my guess is that people were getting access without paying and who ever controls the waterfall didn't like that. This sacred site should not be forgotten and the native history should continue to be shared to those who visit. Still worth checking out because the ruins are impressive. Locals still utilize the site to leave offerings.

Becky Monte

Google

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.

Doug Duwenhoegger

Google

Historic Heiau overlooking the ocean. These were built to celebrate various events in ancient Hawaiian peoples lives by the leaders of the area. When we arrived we were greeted by some chickens but were the only people there. No restrooms or water. Plenty of parking. Heiaus are very sacred places for Hawaiians so please do not walk in the rocks or disturb any offerings. A beautiful place to enjoy the views and contemplate the history of the islands.

shawn stuart

Google

Bring respect! This is sacred ground. Stay in the outside of Heiau, or you will regret it. But if you want to see the rich history of Hawaii and learn culture, this is the spot. Beautiful views of north shore on the drive up is an added bonus. But, once again, RESPECT. BEHAVE, STAY OFF THE WALLS. Bring some oranges as a gift.

Lopaka perry

Google

Our visit was nothing short of amazing. Upon arrival you can sense something very Special here. Its a beautiful place with a short trail to some amazing views overlooking waimea Bay. Always remember the cultural and spiritual value of this place and you will leave truly feeling blessed.

Rovik Robert

Google

Slightly off the main road, this historical site is a really interesting detour. There are some sparse informational signs but you can mainly walk around the ruins and catch some great views of the adjacent bay. Limited parking available.