Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Welcome to Ka-lo-ko Ho-no-ko-hau National Historical Park. As we stand near the small visitor center to begin our walk, I want you to take a hard, analytical look at the immediate environment. …

As we walk along the Ala He-le I-ke trail from the visitor center toward the beach, the sheer harshness of the terrain becomes intimately apparent. The ground beneath us is composed entirely of a-a and pa-ho-e-ho-e lava flows. …

We have reached the edge of Ho-no-ko-hau Beach, a stunning crescent of white coral sand that stands in stark, brilliant contrast to the black lava rock we just traversed. The water here is incredibly clear, providing excellent…

Just a short distance down the beach, we encounter a beautifully reconstructed Ha-wa-i-i-an structure known as a ha-lau, or traditional canoe house. Look closely at the steep, A-frame design, thatched with palm fronds,…

We have now arrived at the A-i-o-pi-o fish trap, a stunning, one point seven acre artificial enclosure built directly into the ocean. Look carefully at the dark, curving line of basalt rocks extending outward from the sandy beach…

Just adjacent to the A-i-o-pi-o fish trap, situated slightly higher up on the solid lava rock, lie the solemn remnants of an ancient he-i-a-u, or traditional temple. Please remain firmly on the designated path and do not disturb…

We have reached the northern end of the park, arriving at the absolute crown jewel of ancient Ha-wa-i-i-an engineering: the massive Ka-lo-ko Fishpond, from which the park derives its name. Before you lies an immense, sweeping…

As our extensive walking tour of Ka-lo-ko Ho-no-ko-hau National Historical Park comes to a close, take a final, sweeping look out over the massive stone seawall toward the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The intense heat of…