Poliahu Heiau at Wailua River State Park in Wailua Homesteads, Hawaii (Kauai) is an easy 0.1-mile out-and-back walk that features a beautiful vista of the Wailua River and the Pacific ocean facing east and also features the ancient Hawaiian temple, Poliahu.
There's no real trail or hiking involved here, but rather a simple walk from parking to the overlook, then to the temple, and back. This is a nice stop on a self-guided road tour of Kauai.
Heiau History
Poliahu is believed to be a luakini (ancient Hawaiian) temple that was dedicated to the god Ku for success in war. Within the walls of the heiau (temple), there were structures made of organic material. These structures were demolished when the traditional Hawaiian religious system was abolished in 1819.
Parking
Visitors will find a parking turnout at the coordinates provided. The turnout is large enough to fit just under a dozen vehicles.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
There's no real trail or hiking involved here, but rather a simple walk from parking to the overlook, then to the temple, and back. This is a nice stop on a self-guided road tour of Kauai.
Heiau History
Poliahu is believed to be a luakini (ancient Hawaiian) temple that was dedicated to the god Ku for success in war. Within the walls of the heiau (temple), there were structures made of organic material. These structures were demolished when the traditional Hawaiian religious system was abolished in 1819.
Parking
Visitors will find a parking turnout at the coordinates provided. The turnout is large enough to fit just under a dozen vehicles.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
