Halekii Pihana Heiaus State Monument

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Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Halekii Pihana Heiaus State Monument is a sacred site located on the island of Maui in Hawaii.


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Summary

It is a complex of three heiaus (temples) that were built by the ancient Hawaiians. The heiaus were used for religious rituals, ceremonies, and as a place of worship.

One of the main reasons to visit Halekii Pihana Heiaus State Monument is to experience the rich history and culture of Hawaii. The site offers a glimpse into the traditional Hawaiian way of life and the spiritual beliefs of the people.

Visitors can explore the three heiaus at the site and learn about their significance. The heiaus are made of lava rock and are surrounded by a lush tropical landscape. There are also informational signs and displays that provide context and history about the site.

One interesting fact about Halekii Pihana Heiaus State Monument is that it was believed to be a place of refuge for those who had broken the law. If someone sought sanctuary at the heiaus, they were protected from harm until their case could be heard by a chief.

The best time of year to visit Halekii Pihana Heiaus State Monument is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is when the weather is most pleasant and the site is less likely to be crowded.

Overall, Halekii Pihana Heiaus State Monument is a unique and fascinating destination for those interested in Hawaiian history and culture. It offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the ancient Hawaiians and provides insight into their spiritual beliefs.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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