Big Island Ancient Site Guide

Twin Rocks

Twin Rocks are offshore lava formations at Onomea Bay, remembered in the Lovers of Kahali'i legend as guardians at the mouth of the bay.

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Twin Rocks
Twin Rocks

The Legend of Twin Rocks, Big Island

These two rocks are located in the offshore waters at Onomea Bay, about 6 miles (10 km) north of Hilo. They can be seen from a nice viewing area that is located inside Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden (admission fee is $15). This may sound steep for a botanical garden, but this is one of Hawaii's best. It's well worth a visit. The viewing area is located at the mouth of the bay. Along the way, you'll see a large variety of tropical plants and a waterfall.

An info sign at Onomea Bay reads:

The Legend of Twin Rocks

The village of Kahali'i was located on this large point of land which extends into Onomea Bay. Though the village is gone, the descendants of Kahali'i still remember some of the legends concerning the area's landmarks. One story tells of the origin of two rock formations at the head of Onomea Bay that are said to be a young man and woman, known as the lovers of Kahali'i.

Legend has it that one day, a chief of the village spotted many canoes with sails heading shoreward in their direction. Fearing an attack, the chiefs and village elders held a council to determine a course of action. They decided to build a reef to prevent a landing on their beaches. Not having the means to complete the task quickly enough, they asked for two young lovers to be the guides and protectors of the village by giving their lives. Two willing individuals were found.

That night a decree was sent to all who lived at Kahali'i to remain indoors from sunset to sunrise without making any light or sound, on penalty of death. In the light of the new day, everyone went down to the shoreline where they were amazed to find the lovers gone, and in their place two gigantic rock formations at the entrance of the Bay, attached to each other, as if on guard.

The chief informed the people that no canoe could now pass the treacherous currents swirling around the rocks unless allowed to do so by the guardians. The lovers and their offspring still stand today, sentinels at the head of the Bay.

Key Features

Offshore lava formations at Onomea Bay
Remembered through the Lovers of Kahali'i legend
Said to stand as guardians at the mouth of the bay
Located along Hawaii Island's lush Hamakua Coast
Often viewed from Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden trails
Rainforest, streams, cliffs, waterfalls and ocean views shape the surrounding area
Old Mamalahoa Highway adds to the scenic drive into the Onomea area
Viewing depends on weather, garden access and safe shoreline conditions
Visitors should respect private property and posted access signs
The rocks should be viewed from land, not reached by swimming

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Twin Rocks require a long hike?

No. The view is usually part of a short Onomea Bay or botanical garden walk, though paths can be wet, uneven or slippery after rain.

Is Twin Rocks a separate park?

No. Twin Rocks are offshore formations at Onomea Bay, not a standalone park with a separate entrance or facilities.

Are the rocks easy to photograph?

They can be, especially from clear bay viewpoints. Rain, sea spray, glare and fast-changing Hamakua Coast weather can affect visibility.

Can visitors climb on Twin Rocks?

No. The formations are offshore and should be viewed from land. The bay can have strong water movement and unsafe rocky shoreline areas.

What should visitors bring for the Onomea walk?

Bring shoes, water, a rain layer if the weather looks wet and a camera or phone with enough battery for the garden and bay views.