Ahu Ena Heiau, Hawaii (Big Island)

This very well restored religious site is easily visible on a small promontory around the bay from Kailua Pier. This was the personal heiau of King Kamehemeha the Great.

It is now located on the grounds of the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel but the public are allowed visit the site during the day.

Reconstructed by King Kamehameha the Great between 1812-1813, the Ahu'ena Heiau is one of the most important of Hawaii's historic sites.

The heiau was dedicated to the god, Lono, who was the Hawaiian God of peace, agriculture and prosperity. Several tall ki'i akua (statues of gods) stand guard around the perimeter of the main building.

Members of Kamehameha's council often met with him here as this was the seat of his government until he died in 1819.

There are a number of Information plaques located around the site which fill you in on the history of the place as you stroll around its grounds.

The Hotel puts on guided tours and Lu'aus here.

The heiau is a relaxing walk from Kailua town and affords you a wonderful view of the Kailua-Kona townships and the sweeping bay.

Check out the Kona webcam for a live view of the heiau from just a couple of hundred yards away!

1 more image

King Kamehameha the great established his court in Kailua-kona, he built this as a personal temple in 1819. The Heiau is on the northside of Kailu behind the King Kamehameha Hotel.