The Place Of Refuge is a 180 acre national historic park located on the coast of Honaunau Bay in south Kona. This was once a place of royal grounds and an area where “Kapu” breakers (sacred laws) could seek refuge.
In ancient Hawaii breaking of Kapu could mean being sentenced to death. The only chance for survival was to try to get to the sacred place of refuge where a Kahuna Pule (priest) would perform a ceremony of absolution. Once you had been cleared of your sins you could return to society.
There are several restored remains at Puuhonua o Honaunau and it remains one of Hawaii’s most sacred historic places. Grab a map at the entrance and follow it to do a self guided tour.
The sheltered bay here is a sea turtle hangout, you can quite often see them basking in the sun and feeding in the shallow water.
This was one of our favorite places to visit on the Big Island of Hawaii. During our visits we found there to be very few people around. It’s a beautiful and tranquil spot to watch the sunset.
More Information, Directions and Admission Fees : http://www.nps.gov/puho/index.htm
Leave a Reply