Holoholoku Heiau

Holoholoku Heiau is an ancient Hawaiian site in Wailua River State Park, near Poliahu Heiau and the birthstones of Kauai's chiefs.

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Holoholoku Heiau, Kauai

It is believed that Holoholoku Heiau was used for human sacrifice in ancient Hawaii, mainly prisoners of war. Others who were killed here were those who had broken a kapu (who had done something that was forbidden, such as walking in the shadow of a chief). Holo-holo-ku means (run run stand fast) in the Hawaiian language. Curiously enough, the heiau is located right next to the Royal Birthstone (Pohaku Ho'ohanau), the sacred site of royal births on the island.

In later years the heiau was vandalized. The wife of Kaumuali'i, the last king of Kauai, then used it as an enclosure to raise pigs. She chose the heiau as a sign that the old religious Hawaiian traditions should be forsaken in favor of Christianity. Today, only the stone foundation remains of the original construction.

Key Features

Ancient Hawaiian site in Wailua River State Park
Part of Wailua's broader royal and religious landscape
Located near Poliahu Heiau and the sacred birthstones
Connected with Kauai chiefly history and Wailua River traditions
Short visit with cultural significance rather than recreation facilities
No visitor facilities are located directly at the heiau stones
Do not move rocks, climb on remains or leave offerings
Nearby Wailua sites help tell a larger story of royal birth, heiau and river access
The site is best visited quietly and respectfully
Holoholoku Heiau is known for Wailua sacred history, ancient stones, Kauai chief traditions and its connection to nearby Poliahu Heiau

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Holoholoku Heiau important?

Holoholoku Heiau is part of Wailua's sacred landscape, where religious sites, chiefly birth traditions and river access were connected in old Kauai.

What are the nearby birthstones?

The birthstones are associated with the birth of high-ranking chiefs. Their location near the heiau reflects Wailua's importance in Kauai's royal history.

How is Holoholoku connected to Poliahu Heiau?

Both sites are part of the Wailua River State Park cultural area, with sacred stones and heiau remains that speak to Wailua's older religious role.

What should visitors avoid at Holoholoku Heiau?

Do not move stones, climb on the remains, leave offerings or treat the site like a picnic area. A respectful visit is quiet and brief.

Why is Wailua tied to so many ancient sites?

Wailua had river access, fertile lands and chiefly importance, making it one of Kauai's most important royal and religious districts.