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Pokai Bay Heiau and Sacred Coconut Grove

Hawaii > Honolulu County > Oahu Island > Waianae

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85-003 Pokai Bay St

Waianae , HI 96792

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Every day Never Closes

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The south end of Pokai Bay is formed by Kaneilio Point, a sharp pointed peninsula that seems to challenge the ocean itself as it juts out into the sea. On this slender finger of land studded with swaying coconut palms you will find the remains of a fascinating historical site. This is the location of Kuilioloa Heiau which served different functions during the 1,000 years that it has been in use.

Without question, the daytime view from the end of the peninsula is tremendous; one can see far up and down the coast and countless ridge tops are visible. Keeping an eye out for friendly traders or marauding war canoes would almost certainly have been one of the first functions of this site. Possibly its first sacred use was as a place of refuge. In the Hawaiian Kapu (taboo) system of laws, many offences were punishable by death. The simplicity and clarity of this seemingly harsh system was tempered by the prevalence of "places of refuge" where accused violators could remain in safety while less violent and less permanent punishments could be negotiated.

As you wander out to the point, notice how the less protected water of the south side of the peninsula has carved intricate forms into the native rock headland. Here you'll find numerous frothing "blow holes" which spew spray and thunder from the sea. At the seaward most tip of the point, you’ll see evidence of ancient and modern practices. The outlines of brown-black lava rock indicate only a small part of the structures that once dominated this spot. Though the original structures have been badly damaged by man and the elements, this is still a sacred site. If you look among the rocks and stones of the tidal area, at the very end of the peninsula, you will find modern memorials to loved ones, whose ashes have been spread into the sea from this point.

One of the primary functions of the Heiau has been its use and dedication to the protective spirits of those traveling by land and sea. It is this connection with distant travelers that connects the site with the figure of Pokai, The Navigator. Recorded in legend and song; Pokai was reputed to have been a voyaging chief of Kahiki who is credited with bringing the versatile and valuable coconut palm to the Hawaiian People. Coconut palms dotting the peninsula are only a small reminder of the great grove of coconuts that lined the back shore of the entire bay and provided shelter and a vast array of materials for the village. This grove was considered sacred and was known as "Ka Uluniu o Pokai." Not just of legend, it was an obvious feature that was noted by western sailors of the 1700s.

The location of this site, distant from the steep mountains and home fires of dwellings would have made it an ideal Navigation Heiau. From here, specialist in astronomy could study the stars and celestial features. Possibly predicting seasons and events, most certainly learning the star maps that would guide them across seemingly featureless oceans. Pokai means "night of the supreme one" and one can only imagine the daring and bravery of these earlier seafaring people, whose navigation ability continues to astound modern sailors.

Pokai Bay, a place of beauty, safety, and history; where the sea meets the land and the past meets the present.

Written By: Bud Hardwick

On: 5/8/2009

Directions

From Honolulu, take H1 west bound until it turns into Farrington Highway. As you approach Waianae Bay turn left onto Waianae Valley Road. The Beach Park and Heiau will be on the ocean side.

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