Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site
Oʻahu’s Ancient Sacred Temple — Massive Stone Platform, Menehune Legend, Kawai Nui Marsh Edge, Agricultural Heiau in Kailua
Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site is a state historic site in Kailua, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, behind the Kailua YMCA. The site preserves a massive ancient Hawaiian stone platform heiau (temple) — approximately 140 by 180 feet with walls up to 30 feet high — believed to have served as an agricultural heiau (māpele) dedicated to the god Lono, later possibly converted to a heiau luakini (sacrificial temple), situated on the eastern edge of Kawai Nui Marsh with interpretive signage and walking paths.
Ulupō Heiau is one of Oʻahu’s most impressive ancient Hawaiian temples — a massive stone platform measuring approximately 140 by 180 feet with outer walls rising up to 30 feet. According to Hawaiian legend, it was built by the menehune — mythical skilled craftsmen who worked only at night. Scholars believe the heiau originally functioned as an agricultural temple (māpele) dedicated to Lono, the god of fertility and agriculture, with ceremonies to ensure the abundance of taro, banana, and sweet potato crops and the productivity of the nearby Kawai Nui fishpond. In later periods, it may have been converted to a heiau luakini — a sacrificial temple used by high chiefs. The site sits on the eastern edge of Kawai Nui Marsh, Hawaiʻi’s largest remaining wetland.
Things to Do
Temple Viewing
- Massive stone platform — 140 x 180 ft, walls to 30 ft
- Interpretive signage
- Walking paths
- SACRED SITE — do not climb on heiau
Nature
- Kawai Nui Marsh — Hawaiʻi’s largest wetland
- Birding
- Marsh trail access
Park Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Behind Kailua YMCA, 1200 Kailua Rd, Kailua, HI |
| Island | Oʻahu |
| Structure | Stone platform heiau — 140 x 180 ft, walls to 30 ft |
| Function | Agricultural māpele → possible luakini |
| Deity | Lono (god of fertility/agriculture) |
| Legend | Built by menehune |
| Marsh | Kawai Nui — Hawaiʻi’s largest wetland |
| Parking | Kailua YMCA parking lot |
| Admission | FREE |
| Respect | SACRED — do not climb or touch the heiau |
| Coordinates | 21.3858° N, 157.7528° W |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | ⭐ BEST: Cooler; migratory birds in marsh; green landscape; fewer tourists in Kailua | Rain possible; bring umbrella |
| Spring (Apr–May) | Comfortable; wildflowers; marsh life; pleasant light | Getting warmer; occasional showers |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Long days; combine with Kailua Beach; dry season | Hot; crowded Kailua; bring water |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Quiet; warm; bird watching; cultural events | Humidity; some rain |
Visitor Tips
- SACRED SITE: Ulupō Heiau is a sacred Hawaiian site — do not climb, walk on, or touch the heiau structure. Stay on marked paths.
- Menehune legend: Hawaiian tradition says the heiau was built by the menehune in a single night — the name “Ulupō” means “night inspiration.”
- Kawai Nui Marsh: The adjacent Kawai Nui Marsh is Hawaiʻi’s largest remaining wetland — excellent for birding and nature walks.
- YMCA parking: Park at the Kailua YMCA lot and follow the path to the heiau.
- Combine: Visit Ulupō Heiau, then walk to Kailua Beach (~1 mile) for one of Oʻahu’s best beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Ulupō Heiau SHS — a massive ancient Hawaiian temple platform (140 by 180 feet) built of hand-stacked lava rock. Hawaiian legend attributes its construction to the Menehune — mythical small people who built structures overnight. The adjacent Kawainui Marsh (800 acres) is the largest wetland in Hawaii, supporting Hawaiian stilts, coots, and moorhens.
Nearby Attractions
Kailua — adjacent. Kawainui Marsh — adjacent. Lanikai Beach — 3 miles east.
What is Ulupō Heiau in Kailua?
Ulupō Heiau State Historic Site in Kailua, Oʻahu, preserves a massive ancient Hawaiian stone platform temple approximately 140 by 180 feet with walls up to 30 feet high. It is believed to have served as an agricultural heiau dedicated to the god Lono, with possible later conversion to a sacrificial temple. According to legend, it was built by the menehune. The site sits on the edge of Kawai Nui Marsh — Hawaiʻi’s largest remaining wetland. It is free and located behind the Kailua YMCA. Visitors must not climb or touch the sacred structure.
Last updated: May 2026
