Hapaiali'i and Ke'eku Heiau
Hapaiali'i and Ke'eku Heiau are two significant Hawaiian temple structures located on the shoreline in Keauhou, near Kahalu'u Beach. Reconstructed in 2007, Hapaiali'i Heiau is believed to date back to the 1400s and served as a solar calendar aligned with solstices. Ke'eku Heiau is associated with sacrificial rituals and a key battle involving Chief Kamalalawalu. These sacred sites reflect the cultural, religious, and astronomical practices of ancient Hawaii.
Hapaiali'i and Ke'eku Heiau, Big Island
Located in Keauhou near Kahalu'u Beach Park and the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort, these two heiaus have been reconstructed by Kamehameha Schools in 2007. Hapaiali'i Heiau is believed to date back to the 1400s (carbon dating indicates that it was built between 1411 and 1465).
During the restoration process, archaeologists discovered that Hapaiali'i Heiau served as a solar calendar. One can accurately mark the passing of the seasons when standing behind the center stone on the heiau's top platform and aligning it with various other points on the heiau. On the winter solstice the sun sets directly over the southwest corner of the platform-like structure. And at the summer solstice, it sets over the northwest corner of the structure. The platform measures 150 feet (46 m) by 100 feet (30 m), and during high tide, it is surrounded by water.
Historians believe it took thousands of commoners about a decade to maneuver the rocks into place and build the platform. When Hapaiali'i was reconstructed in 2007, with the help of modern machinery, it took just four month to recreate the heiau.
At the adjacent Ke'eku Heiau, it is believed that it is the place where invading Chief Kamalalawalu of Maui was sacrificed after being defeated by Chief Lonoikamakahiki in the 16th century.
A plaque in front of Hapaiali'i Heiau reads:
Literally translated means "elevated chiefs." A heiau, or temple, is a pre-christian place of worship. Its age has been recorded as prehistoric. It is said that this heiau was built by a Ma'a, a kahuna (priest) of Maui, who left for Kaua'i later. Others say that it was built by Kamehameha about 1782 after the battle of Moku'ohai, and that Hewahewa was its priest. It was also said that the ali'i women would hanau or give birth at this heiau to instill the great mana or spiritual power within their child.
Key Features of Hapaiali'i and Ke'eku Heiau
- Historic reconstructions: Rebuilt in 2007 by Kamehameha Schools using traditional stonework and modern tools
- Solar calendar function: Hapaiali'i Heiau aligns with solstices and seasonal sun positioning from its central stone
- Ancient sacrificial site: Ke'eku Heiau was reportedly used for sacrificial rituals following battles, including the defeat of Chief Kamalalawalu
- Large ceremonial platform: Hapaiali'i's lava-rock platform measures 150 by 100 feet and is surrounded by water during high tide
- Archaeological significance: Excavations revealed solstice alignments and historical usage predating European contact
- Scenic coastal setting: Located on the Keauhou shoreline, accessible via Ali'i Drive, just south of Kailua-Kona
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Hapaiali'i Heiau?
It functioned as a ceremonial structure and solar calendar, with alignments to the summer and winter solstices.
What happened at Ke'eku Heiau?
Ke'eku Heiau is believed to be where Chief Kamalalawalu of Maui was sacrificed after his defeat in battle by Chief Lonoikamakahiki in the 1500s.
When were the heiaus reconstructed?
Both structures were restored in 2007 by Kamehameha Schools, using archaeological research and traditional methods.
Where are the heiaus located?
They are located on the shoreline behind the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort at the end of Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
How large is the Hapaiali'i Heiau?
The platform measures approximately 150 feet by 100 feet and is partially surrounded by water during high tide.