Piilanihale Heiau, Ancient stone temple in Kahanu Garden, US
The Pi'ilanihale Heiau spans 341 by 415 feet with walls reaching 50 feet high, constructed entirely from basalt rocks carried from Hana Bay.
Construction of this massive temple structure began in the 13th century and continued for over 300 years, involving multiple building phases and extensive labor.
The temple complex features eight interior walls, three enclosures, five platforms, and two upright stones used for religious ceremonies by Hawaiian chiefs.
Visitors can explore the temple grounds within Kahanu Garden from Monday to Saturday between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM through guided or self-guided tours.
Pi'ilanihale Heiau stands as the largest ancient temple structure in Polynesia, requiring thousands of hand-carried volcanic rocks for its construction.
Location: Maui County
GPS coordinates: 20.79917,-156.03833
Latest update: March 17, 2025 10:31
The Hawaiian Islands offer beaches with white, black, and red sand, formed through volcanic activity and coral erosion. Coastal areas display tide pools, sea caves, and lava formations. Inland, hiking trails lead through rainforest valleys to waterfalls and historic Heiau temples, which served as ceremonial sites for the Polynesian inhabitants. The volcanic geology has created lava tubes, craters, and calderas that are now accessible to visitors. Botanical gardens preserve native plant species, while archaeological sites like ancient settlements and petroglyph fields provide insights into pre-European history. The islands also feature limestone caves with marine fossils and reefs suitable for snorkeling.
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23.8 km
Hana Highway
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Haleakalā National Park
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Haleakalā Observatory
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3.67 m Advanced Electro Optical System Telescope
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Makahiku Falls
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Haleakalā Wilderness
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Crater Historic District
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Loaloa Heiau
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Waimoku Falls
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Haleakalā Visitor Center
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Park Headquarters Visitor Center
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Honokalani Black Sand Beach
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Hōlua Campground
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Hosmer Grove Campground
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Mather Plaque in Haleakalā National Park
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Leleiwi Overlook
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Kīpahulu Campground
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Wai‘ānapanapa State Park
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