Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Along the western coastline of the Island of Hawai'i lies the hot, rugged lava of Kaloko-Honokohau. Some people find it difficult to understand why the ancient Hawaiians chose to settle upon these stark lava fields. The reason was, perhaps, a spiritual one, for there was a spirit in Kaloko-Honokohau. The Hawaiians who first came to the area felt its presence in every rock and tree, in the gentle waters of shallow bays, and in the tradewinds that gently swept across the lava flow. Visitors to the park can see the ancient heiau (temple) that stands at the end of the beach, as it did in times when Hawaiian settlements thrived in the area, and the 'Aiopi'o Fishtrap, where reef fish were captured for food.
The site offers exhibits and tours.