ALOHA!
The Puu O Mahuka Heiau is an easy side trip to make when you are on the North Shore of Oahu with a car.
There are 3 good reasons to put it on your list of things to do on the North Shore:
- Experience a bit of Hawaiian culture
- Go for a short easy hike on Oahu
- Enjoy sweeping views of the North Shore
So, what is a heiau?
In short, a heiau is a Hawaiian temple and it represents a piece of Hawaiian history. Native Hawaiians used them as places of worship and sacrifice.
If you’ll be spending more than a few days in Hawaii, consider making it a point to see at least one heiau.
Or, if seeing a bit of Hawaiian culture isn’t enough to motivate you to visit the Puu O Mahuka Heiau, go for the some of the best views on Oahu!
nearby north shore hike – nearby north shore snorkeling spots
another oahu hike with a nearby heiau
what to wear in hawaii >> what to wear hiking – what to wear snorkeling
State Historic Site and National Historic Landmark
The Puu O Mahuka Heiau is a Hawaii state historic site which means that it’s a part of the Hawaii state park system. It’s also a registered national historic landmark which means it’s a part of the national park system as well.
This is how the state of Hawaii describes the largest heiau on Oahu:
“Today, only the rock walls and stone paved floor remain. But 250 years ago, the Puu O Mahuka Heiau was a major temple on the North Shore of Oahu. It was dedicated as a luakini (sacrificial) heiau and included ceremonies for success in war.”
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Road to the heiau
The road you’ll take to get to the heiau is just near Shark’s Cove, a popular snorkeling spot on the North Shore.
You’ll be driving up a hill which means scenic views!
It’s about a 5 minute drive before you see the sign for the heiau, and then you’ll turn down that road.
Arriving at the heiau
Once you get to the site, you’ll see the heiau immediately, as well as more scenic views of the North Shore, including Waimea Bay!
Short trail around the heiau
There is a trail that goes around the heiau that is an easy walk of 10-15 minutes. You can think of it as a nature walk on the North Shore.
HAPPY NORTH SHORE HEIAU VISIT!
nearby north shore hike – nearby north shore snorkeling spots – things to do on on the north shore
another oahu hike with a nearby heiau
what to wear in hawaii >> what to wear hiking – what to wear snorkeling
Best shoes for your active vacation
Hit search at the top for any of these items to get more variety on Amazon through these affiliate links!- Walking: These types of hiking sandals. For walking in hot weather, they are more breathable than shoes, while still giving you necessary traction on the trails. Also see these travel sandals.
- Beach: These types of beach shoes. For beach walking, wading in the water, and rocky shorelines, they can prevent cuts from hidden rocks or when bumping into coral reef.
see more:
- What to wear hiking
- What to wear snorkeling
- What to wear on a cruise formal night
Best things to pack for active travel
- First-time snorkelers love full-face snorkeling masks.- These UV protection shirts are a hit so you don't have to keep re-applying sunscreen and don't have to worry as much about getting sunburn!
- These types of small backpacks are perfect for a day out so you can carry essentials... and snacks!
- And these popular packing cubes can be a life-saver when you're traveling!
Don't get your valuables stolen when you travel
- On city excursions: This neck pouch that tons of people love. It makes it harder for money to be stolen, and RFID-blocking feature stops thieves from scanning your credit card info when they are close to you.- At the beach: This type of pouch that you can easily take your wallet in the water with you, instead of leaving on the beach.