Ulu Po Heiau State Monument
Rate this placeNearby: Pohakupu Park Maunawili Playground
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Ulu Po Heiau State Monument is a historically significant site located in the state of Hawaii.
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Summary
This state monument, situated in the Ahupua'a O Kahana State Park on the island of Oahu, offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture and traditions.
One of the primary reasons to visit Ulu Po Heiau State Monument is to immerse oneself in the rich history of the Hawaiian people. This sacred site served as a heiau, a traditional Hawaiian temple, where important rituals and ceremonies took place. It was primarily dedicated to the Hawaiian god of agriculture, Lono, and was used for offering prayers and seeking prosperity for the land's crops.
When exploring the monument, visitors can marvel at the impressive stonework that has withstood the test of time. The heiau features a massive stone platform, known as a "terrace", which was used for ceremonial purposes. This platform is made up of carefully placed lava rocks, a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the ancient Hawaiians.
Interesting facts about Ulu Po Heiau State Monument include its connection to the larger Ahupua'a O Kahana State Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and learning about the native plants and animals of Hawaii. Ulu Po Heiau itself is located within a lush tropical rainforest, providing visitors with a serene and picturesque setting during their visit.
The best time to visit Ulu Po Heiau State Monument is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. This period offers a higher chance of sunny weather, making it easier to explore the monument and enjoy the surrounding nature. However, it's important to note that Hawaii's weather can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to check the local forecast before planning a visit.
To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided about Ulu Po Heiau State Monument by cross-referencing multiple independent sources, such as official state park websites, historical resources, and reputable travel guides.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
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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