Keaiwa Heiau is a healing spot where ancient Hawaiians treated sickness and injuries.
While there are many heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples or shrines) sites in Hawaii, this one is particularly known as a spiritual power spot specializing in the power of healing.
Keaiwa means “mysterious or incomprehensible” in Hawaiian. It is said to have been a place like a hospital, where experts called kahuna, who possessed healing powers (akin to modern-day doctors), treated the sick and injured using medicinal herbs collected from a nearby garden.
Perhaps for this reason, I always feel like my well-being improves whenever I visit here.
Located on a hill at an elevation of about 300 meters (approx. 984 feet), the stunning views and the refreshing breeze alone are enough to lift your spirits.
Keaiwa Heiau is a Sacred Place for Hawaiians
When you visit Keaiwa Heiau, you may see people praying for recovery from illness or injury.
Heiau are places of utmost importance to Native Hawaiians.
It’s also popular as a spiritual spot, so many tourists visit, but let’s be sure to be respectful and not desecrate this important place.
It is absolutely forbidden to take stones from the heiau as a souvenir.
In fact, this is a serious offense in Hawaii, with incredibly high fines reaching tens of thousands of dollars, so please be careful.
Also, some people leave leis or fruits as offerings, but this is discouraged as it can attract wild animals and cause problems with their droppings.
It’s best to visit with a sense of respect for Native Hawaiians, as if you are coming to pay your respects.
Aiea Loop Trail: Perfect for Hiking
Keaiwa Heiau is located at the entrance of the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, which covers about 1.6 square kilometers (approximately 395 acres).
Further into the park, there is a trail course called the Aiea Loop Trail.
It’s a popular walking spot bustling with locals on weekends, so it might be a nice place to come for some light exercise.
Although the route is quite long, the area is cool, so you will surely find it pleasant.
Enjoy the incredibly refreshing feeling created by the atmosphere of the great outdoors and the mysterious power of the heiau!
Basic Information about Keaiwa Heiau
| Name | Keaiwa Heiau |
| Address | 99-1849 Aiea Heights Dr, Aiea, HI 96701 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 7:00 AM – 6:45 PM |
| Closed | Never |
| Time required | Approx. 20 minutes |
| Restrooms | Available |
| Parking | Available (Free) |
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