Kohala Historical Sites State Monument

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is a state park in Hawaii that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the history and culture of the area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The park is filled with a variety of interesting sites and artifacts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hawaiian history.

One of the main reasons to visit the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is to learn about the ancient Hawaiian civilization that once thrived in the area. The park contains a number of ancient structures and artifacts, including heiau (Hawaiian temples), petroglyphs, and other cultural sites. Visitors can explore these structures and learn about the customs and beliefs of the ancient Hawaiians.

Some of the most notable points of interest in the park include the Mo'okini Heiau, which is one of the oldest and most sacred heiau in Hawaii, as well as the Halawa Heiau and the Kamehameha I birthplace, which is a replica of the house where the famous Hawaiian king was born.

In addition to its cultural significance, the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is also a beautiful natural area, with stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike through the park and enjoy the scenery, as well as participate in guided tours that provide a more in-depth look at the park's history and culture.

Interesting facts about the park include the fact that it was once the site of a major battle between the forces of Kamehameha I and his cousin, Keoua Kuahu'ula. The battle ultimately led to Kamehameha I's victory and the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under his rule.

The best time of year to visit the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is during the winter months, when the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded. However, visitors should be aware that the park is open year-round and can be visited at any time.

Overall, the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument is a fascinating and educational destination for anyone interested in Hawaiian history and culture. With its ancient structures, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hawaii.

       

Weather Forecast

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.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks