Kukuipuka is Maui's Place of Refuge heiau where individuals who broke the law, or violated the kapu, could come to be saved from certain death for their transgressions. If someone broke one of the sacred kapu laws they would be put to death to save the rest of the community. The only way to escape this balance of good and evil, was to travel to a Place of Refuge, a heiau where the transgressor would be protected and forgiven. Kukuipuka is one of these protected places. Kukui means light and puka means hole, gate or door. Think of this place as the doorway to enlightenment.
Read and hear about the power of this place from Lei'ohu Ryder:
In 1995, Kukuipuka 'Ohana rediscovered this sacred Heiau (Hawaiian temple) in Kahakuloa, Maui. Kukuipuka continues to inspire many, as it is a place of prayer, prophecy, peace and healing.
Protocol to enter:
A heiau is a Hawaiian temple and so much more. It is a designated place for the practice of prayer and at Kukuipuka for healing. Proper respect should be shown at all times.
Silence is appreciated
Enter barefoot (if gentle for each person) - suggestion
Kīhei – cloak or garment worn in ceremonies
Ho’okupu (offerings) are not required. Your silent prayers or chants are an offering in itself. If you would like to make a Ho’okupu to Kukuipuka, the simple rule is to bring items that are natural, such as flowers, water, plants, leis, ferns or other greenery.
Food/snacks allowed on the outside walls of the heiau
No dogs or pets at Kukuipuka Heiau (Service pets allowed)
Rocks Sacred – Please sit on the grass/ground, leave rocks unmarked
Ahu/altar – Please leave center where ‘ili ‘ili (small smooth stones) undisturbed
If anything you remember, please DO NOT sit, kneel, stand, carve, dig, mark , or move any of the rock and wall structures!
Driving Directions Kukuipuka (same as Waihee Ridge Trail):
Go 4.4 miles to Mendes Ranch – 3530 Kahekili Hwy, turn left on road directly across from Mendes Ranch that goes to Camp Maluhia & Waihe’e Ridge Trail. Follow this road past turn off for Camp Maluhia to end of road. Turn right and park in paved lot for Waihe’e Ridge Trail. Walk back up to turn stile next to the drive in gate. Walk makai (towards the ocean) toward heiau. When you get to the end of the dirt road, walk down the hill and across to the gate to the heiau.
