A small port town
located along Big Island's northwestern Kohala Coast, Kawaihae was a crowded whaling
and trading port back in the 19th century. Kawaihae Harbor is said
to be the first to receive horses and cattle loaded by a ship in Hawaii. The
harbor was improved in 1950s to receive more ships. Currently, it is considered
one of the largest harbors in Hawaii.
Although there are few
small shops, restaurants and gas stations, there is not much else. The 83-acre Pu'ukohola Heiau is one of the main attractions
in the area. Pu'ukohola Heiau is an ancient war temple build
by King Kamehameha the Great (located south of Kawaihae). In addition, another
attraction north of town is Pua Mau Place, a botanical garden on the western
slope of the Kohala Mountain
There are a few small
shops, restaurants and a gas station, but not much else. The main attraction in
this area is the 83-acre Pu'ukohola Heiau, an ancient war temple built
by King Kamehameha the Great (located south of Kawaihae). Another attraction
near Kawaihae (north of town) is Pua Mau Place, a botanical garden on the
western slope of the Kohala Mountain. The garden presents unique sculptures,
everblooming plants, a hibiscus maze, large lava rocks on ravines and the Magic
Circle.