Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park on Hawaii’s Big Island.

Ala kahakai (“shoreline trail” in Hawaiian) is a network of old paths along the Big Island’s coastline — traditionally this route was made up of Hawaiian fishermen’s rights of way, ahupuaʻa. Some portions of the original historic network have been preserved in their original state and others have become roads or developments. Much of the proposed route remains closed to the public, but a few areas provide access.

Two excellent sites to experience the cultural and natural appeal of this area are Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, pictured above.