Rich in stream-fed agricultural land, abundant fishing grounds and protected canoe landings, Kailua was an ancient economic center that supported at least three temples. Ulupo, once bordered by 400 acres of cultivated fishponds and taro fields, is the only one left to visit.
Construction of this imposing platform temple was traditionally attributed to menehune, the ʻlittle people’ who legend says created much of Hawaii’s impressive stonework, finishing each project in one night. It’s thought the temple’s final use may have been as a luakini, a place for human sacrifice dedicated to the war god Ku. Interpretive panels provide an artist’s rendition of the site as it probably looked in the 18th century.
The heiau is a mile southwest of downtown Kailua, behind the YMCA at 1200 Kailua Rd. Coming over the Pali Hwy from Honolulu, take Uluoa St, the first left after passing the Hwy 72 junction, then turn right on Manu Aloha St and right again on Manu Oʻo St.
