A Primitive Hawaiian Village
Posted on Nov 13, 2009 under Big Island Beaches, Big Island History |The Remains of a Thriving Village are Preserved on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast.
For a memorable glimpse into life in an ancient Hawaiian fishing community, visit Lapakahi State Historical Park. A marked trail leads you through the partially reconstructed ruins of a once prosperous village inhabited by farmers and fishermen some 600 years ago. This sacred archeological site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
The one-mile trail passes through the remains of rock walls, stone platforms, canoe sheds, restored hales (houses), fishing shrines, salt pans, and native plants. A game area allows visitors the chance to experience ‘ulu maika (stone rolling), o’o he (spear throwing), and konane (checkers). Ancient settlers utilized the trees, bushes, rocks and grass to build structures or cooking utensils. Huts made of pili grass were supported by wooden poles. The rich soil and abundant fish life supplied the resources for a well-balanced diet. A brochure guides you through the path, and educational signs explain the structures and techniques used.
Meaning “single ridge,” the name lapa kahi refers to an old land division called the ahupua ’a that ran from the sea to Kohala Mountain. The 265-acre site borders the shoreline of the Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District. Its small coral cove, protected from harsh currents, once served as a safe canoe landing spot. Here in these preserved deep-blue waters teaming with tropical fish, snorkeling is allowed if conditions are calm but swimming is discouraged.
Lapakahi State Historical Park is located off Akoni Pule Highway (Highway 270) in the Big Island’s North Kohala District, 12.4 miles north of Kawaihae at the 14 mile mark. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 808-974-6200 or 808-882-6207.
