A Visitor's Guide to the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
Discover one of Hawaiʻi's largest collections of ancient rock carvings. This short, easy hike near the Kohala Coast offers a direct connection to the island's past.
Tucked away at the end of a quiet residential street on the Kohala Coast lies a portal to ancient Hawaiʻi. The Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve protects one of the most extensive and significant fields of kī pohaku (rock carvings) in the entire state. A short hike through a dry kiawe forest leads you to thousands of images etched into the pāhoehoe lava rock, each one a story, a prayer, or a record from centuries past. Visiting this wahi pana (storied place) is a powerful, humbling experience and a direct link to the people who walked this land long before us.
What Are the Puakō Petroglyphs?
Petroglyphs, or kī pohaku in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, are images carved into rock. The Puakō field contains over 3,000 distinct carvings spread across a 233-acre preserve, with about 1,200 visible to the public from a dedicated trail and boardwalk. According to archaeologists, these carvings date from A.D. 1200 to 1450.
These are not random doodles. Each image holds meaning, though the exact interpretation of many has been lost to time. They are believed to be records of births (a piko, or umbilical cord, was often placed in a hole for spiritual protection), travels, family lineages, and significant events. Common motifs you’ll see include:
- Human figures (anthropomorphs): Often shown in family groups, as warriors, or as dancers.
- Canoes: Representing travel between islands or to fishing grounds.
- Animals: Turtles (honu), dogs, and birds.
- Geometric shapes and symbols: Circles, lines, and dots that may represent celestial bodies or serve as markers.
These carvings provide an invaluable record of the beliefs, activities, and daily life of the ancient Hawaiians who lived along this arid, yet resource-rich, coastline. The entire area is protected by the State of Hawaiʻi and is considered a sacred site.
Getting to the Trailhead
The Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve is located on the South Kohala Coast, adjacent to the Fairmont Orchid hotel and Holoholokai Beach Park.
Directions:
- Take Highway 19 (Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway) and turn makai (towards the ocean) onto Mauna Lani Drive.
- Follow Mauna Lani Drive for about a mile and take your first right onto North Kanikū Drive.
- Follow this road past the Fairmont Orchid hotel entrance. It will curve to the left and lead you to the public parking area for Holoholokai Beach Park.
- Park here. The trailhead for the Malama Trail to the petroglyphs is clearly marked at the edge of the parking lot.
There are no fees to park or to hike the trail. You'll find restrooms and showers at Holoholokai Beach Park, which are convenient to use before or after your hike.
Hiking the Malama Trail
The trail to the petroglyphs is named the Malama Trail, which translates to "to care for" or "preserve"—a fitting reminder of your role as a visitor.
The hike itself is relatively short and easy, covering about 1.2 miles round-trip on mostly flat terrain. Plan for about 45-60 minutes of walking, plus time to view the carvings.
Trail Conditions
The path winds through a shady forest of non-native kiawe trees, which provides welcome relief from the sun. However, the ground is uneven and composed of sharp lava rock and loose coral. It is absolutely essential to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes like hiking boots or athletic sneakers. Do not attempt this trail in slippers (flip-flops) or sandals.
The trail is well-defined, with rocks lining the path. It's critical to stay on the marked trail at all times to protect both the fragile ecosystem and the undiscovered petroglyphs that may lie just off the path.
What to Bring
Even for a short hike, the Kohala Coast heat can be intense. We recommend bringing:
- Water: At least one bottle per person.
- Sunscreen and a Hat: The forest provides some shade, but the viewing area is fully exposed.
- Sturdy Shoes: As mentioned, this is non-negotiable.
- Camera: To capture images of the carvings from a respectful distance.
Viewing the Petroglyphs
The Malama Trail leads to a large, circular pāhoehoe lava field where the main concentration of petroglyphs is located. A wooden boardwalk allows you to walk around the perimeter of the field, offering excellent views of the carvings without causing any damage.
Take your time. At first, the faint etchings can be hard to spot, especially in the harsh midday sun. As your eyes adjust, more and more figures will reveal themselves. The low-angle light of the early morning or late afternoon often makes the carvings stand out in greater relief.
You'll see depictions of human figures with distinct features, some holding paddles, others linked in long family lines. Look for the many circular puka (holes) where the piko of newborns were placed to ensure a long and prosperous life. It’s a powerful feeling to stand at the edge of this vast stone canvas and contemplate the generations of people who left their stories here.
Kuleana: Visiting with Respect
Visiting a site like Puakō comes with a profound kuleana, or responsibility. This is an irreplaceable cultural treasure and a sacred place to many Native Hawaiians. As a visitor, your primary role is to be a respectful observer.
The rules are simple but crucial, echoing guidelines from the National Park Service (NPS) and the State of Hawaiʻi for all cultural sites:
- Do NOT Touch the Petroglyphs: The oils from your skin can cause permanent damage to the delicate rock surface.
- Stay on the Trail and Boardwalk: Walking on the lava field can damage unseen carvings and is extremely disrespectful.
- Do NOT Make Rubbings: This practice, once common, is now strictly forbidden as it causes significant erosion and damage to the carvings.
- Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints: Do not leave any offerings, trash, or markings of your own.
- Be Quiet and Respectful: This is a place of reverence, not just a tourist attraction.
By following these guidelines, you help ensure that the Puakō petroglyphs will survive to tell their stories for generations to come.
What to Do Nearby
After your hike, the surrounding area offers plenty of options for relaxing and exploring. As a hub for some of the best resorts and beaches on the island, the Kohala Coast is a great place to spend a day. Many of these activities are part of the quintessential Big Island experience you can read about on our site at https://highendhawaii.com.
- Holoholokai Beach Park: Located right at the trailhead, this is a small, pretty beach composed of salt-and-pepper sand and coral. It's not the best for swimming due to the rocky seafloor, but it's a lovely spot for beachcombing and watching for sea turtles.
- Fairmont Orchid: This luxury hotel has beautiful grounds, and its public-access beach, Pauoa Bay, offers excellent, protected snorkeling.
- Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area: Just a short drive north, Hāpuna is one of Hawaiʻi's most famous white-sand beaches. It's a fantastic spot for swimming and sunbathing, with full facilities.
- Waialea Bay (Beach 69): Another local favorite, Waialea Bay is known for its calm, clear water, excellent snorkeling, and ample natural shade from kiawe trees.