This well-restored religious site was the personal heiau of King Kamehameha the Great. It is located on the grounds of the King Kamehemeha Kona Beach Hotel, Kailua-Kona but the public may visit the site during the day. The heiau sits at the waters edge overlooking Kailua Bay.

The heiau was dedicated to the god, Lono. Several tall ki'i akua (statues of god) adorn the area. A bird depicted on the tallest statue is the golden plover. This bird is was said to have lead the ancient Polynesians to Hawai`i.

King Kamehameha worshipped at this site from 1813 until his death in 1819. Historical walking tours and luaus are offered by the King Kamehemeha Kona Beach Hotel.

The heiau was restored in 1812 for King Kamehameha the Great. "The house from which to watch the farm lands," the King used this heiau as his retreat to oversee the land and the ocean.

The buildings were thatched with sugar cane leaves.

DIRECTIONS: Located behind the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel at the end of Palani Road in Kailua-Kona, it is easily seen from the the Kailua Pier.

• Informational plaques located around the site
• FREE admission to the grounds from 9am - 4pm daily
• Guided tours available - check at the hotel lobby for times and information
• Luaus held nearby - call 808-326-4969 for more information and reservations
  
   

Source:  http://www.hawaiiweb.com/hawaii/html/sites/ahuena_heiau.html

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