Ku‘emanu HeiauThe Big Island's Place Of PrayersKu'emanu Heiau, situated along the western shorelin ....

Ku‘emanu Heiau

The Big Island's Place Of Prayers

Ku'emanu Heiau, situated along the western shoreline of the Big Island, approximately 5 miles (8 km) south of Kailua-Kona, is steeped in history and believed to have been dedicated to the ancient art of surfing. This heiau served as a sacred place for offering prayers to the ocean gods, beseeching them for favorable surfing conditions. Additionally, it offered an elevated vantage point for observing the surfers venturing into the waves, a tradition that continues today.

The heiau features a substantial stone platform, measuring about 100 feet (30 m) in length and 50 feet (15 m) in width. Atop this foundation, you'll find an upper stone terrace, adding to its historical significance. Adjacent to this terrace, there's a stone water pool, likely employed for bathing or rinsing off saltwater after exhilarating surfing sessions in the adjacent waters.

Ku'emanu Heiau's unique historical and cultural importance as a surfing sanctuary has made it a cherished site, standing opposite a renowned surfing break that continues to draw wave enthusiasts.