Pohaku Lana'i
Pohaku Lana'i is a fascinating ancient site located at Kaiaka Bay Beach Park on O'ahu's North Shore. This natural balancing rock formation - two large limestones stacked together - resembles a giant stone mushroom. Steeped in legend, it is believed to have floated ashore from the mystical land of Kahiki. Once a place of worship and a lookout for fishermen, Pohaku Lana'i offers visitors a glimpse into Hawaiian mythology and unique geology.
Pohaku Lana'i, Oahu
What looks like a giant stone mushroom are actually two limestones, one sitting on top of the other (view panorama)×. This ancient site is also referred to as a balancing rock. The lower portion is about 6 feet (1.8 m) high and the top one is balanced on the lower platform. Altogether the two rocks are about 12 feet (3.7 m) high and 93 feet (28.3 m) in circumference.
Legend has it that the limestone floated ashore from the distant land of Kahiki. Hawaiian chiefs used to worship their local god here. It is also believed that the stone was used as a lookout point for fishermen.
Key Features of Pohaku Lana'i
- Balancing rock formation: Two large limestone boulders stacked together, appearing like a giant stone mushroom.
- Hawaiian legend: Said to have floated ashore from the mythical land of Kahiki, an ancient homeland referenced in Polynesian lore.
- Worship site: Used by Hawaiian chiefs to worship a local deity and as a spiritual place of reverence.
- Fishing lookout: Believed to have served as a natural vantage point for observing ocean activity and schools of fish.
- Accessible location: Found on the west side of Kaiaka Bay Beach Park in Hale'iwa; visible from the park's main road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pohaku Lana'i?
Pohaku Lana'i is a unique balancing rock formation made up of two stacked limestone boulders located in Kaiaka Bay Beach Park on O'ahu's North Shore.
What does the legend say about Pohaku Lana'i?
According to Hawaiian lore, the stone floated across the Pacific from the distant land of Kahiki and came to rest on O'ahu's shoreline.
Where can I find Pohaku Lana'i?
It's located on the west side of Kaiaka Bay Beach Park in Hale'iwa. You can spot it from the road that runs through the beach park.
Was Pohaku Lana'i used for religious purposes?
Yes, Hawaiian chiefs reportedly worshipped their local deity at this site, which also served as a lookout for fishermen.
How big is the rock formation?
The formation stands about 12 feet tall and measures roughly 93 feet in circumference.