Kaunolu Village Site — Local services in Lānaʻi

YOU MUST HAVE A JEEP TO GET HERE!!

After a 4 mile very slow Jeep trip over lava rocks and mud holes we arrived at this ancient and historic Hawaiian village on Lanai. The village was built at the beach on two cliffs on either side of a large stream. We then hiked 20 minutes down a difficult path on a cliff then up the other side after crossing the muddy but dry stream bed (thankfully not raining up the mountain at that moment). It was only a mile in but tough as we climbed up the other side. Saw native petroglyphs too (though not as spectacular as another site earlier in the day) and ancient ovens built into the rocks. Many village walls still in place at this remote location. Ended up at the overlook that the Hawaiians thought sacred. Incredibly beautiful. Exhausted when we finally got to the car, then bumped our way back to civilization up the 4 mile rough road. Crazy pretty. One of the most interesting days we have ever had. My wife and I are in our mid 60’s and made this hike. You can do it. Well worth...

Don’t head this way without your Jeep! We took Kaupili Road to get here, then veered off at the historical marker and started the descent south on the trail. The site is by the ocean, clearly marked and well maintained, and has a 0.5 mile trail that runs through the gulch and connects the two ancient villages - Kaunolū on the west and Keāliakapu on the east. The footprint of Kamehameha I’s residence is right next to you when you park. Minimal cell service and no facilities, so pack in and pack out...

To get here, drive to the cat sanctuary and go down Kaupili Rd until you reach a right turn (not on Google maps) to Kaunola Village. The path is marked with a sign.

This offroad path needs some love so I don't recommend driving it unless you're experienced. Parts of the path are kinda treacherous. You can park half way and hike the rest. The path is only a few miles and would take a couple...