Kukaniloko Birthstones is Hawaii’s most famous power spot for those praying for a safe childbirth.
It is said to bring blessings of safe delivery and fertility, as it was once used as a birthing site for Hawaiian royalty.
Legend has it that this area possesses a mysterious spiritual power (mana) that eases the pains of childbirth.
Inspired by the legend that it was actively used for about 700 years from the 11th to the 18th century, it gradually became a popular topic among those wishing to be blessed with children.
This is an extremely important place for Native Hawaiians, so please be sure to follow the rules of visitation and be mindful of your manners when you visit.
Is Kukaniloko Birthstones Off-Limits? Etiquette You Should Know
Kukaniloko Birthstones is located in the Wahiawa area, right in the center of Oahu.
In the Hawaiian language, its name signifies the ‘navel,’ and it has been cherished as the center of the island since ancient times!
Perhaps for this reason, it has a unique atmosphere and is a pleasant spot where you can always feel a gentle breeze and the fragrance of nature.
However, when you visit Kukaniloko Birthstones, you’ll find the parking lot gate closed, as if to say, ‘No Entry!’
Previously, the parking lot was open, and it was a public tourist spot. However, as it gained popularity, management became difficult due to many visitors with poor etiquette, such as climbing on the stones and drawing graffiti.
In 2017, measures were taken to enclose the birthstones area with rocks to prohibit entry, but this was not very effective. As a result, the entrance is now closed.
This is a difficult measure taken to preserve this precious land, which has been protected since ancient times, for future generations!
Therefore, the site is generally closed to the public now, and you may be asked to leave if you enter without permission.
If you really wish to visit, it’s recommended to make a reservation through the official Kukaniloko Birthstones website for formal entry.
If you choose to enter at your own risk, please do so with the utmost respect, acknowledging that this is a very important place for the people of Hawaii.
- Do not step on or climb the stones
- Do not draw graffiti on the stones
- Do not leave trash or offerings
As long as you follow this etiquette, the people of Hawaii are very generous and kind to travelers!
How to Enter Kukaniloko Birthstones
The way you enter Kukaniloko Birthstones is also said to be important.
From the parking area, walk for about 2-3 minutes down a straight, red-dirt path surrounded by bushes on both sides. You will come to an area with an atmosphere distinctly different from its surroundings.
There are two large stones with an imposing presence, like a gate. This is the entrance to Kukaniloko Birthstones.
It is said that when you greet these stones, spiritually sensitive individuals may feel a sense of being welcomed, or conversely, a feeling of being pushed back, as if told ‘Do not enter!’
Even those who aren’t typically sensitive to spiritual matters will likely feel a mysterious atmosphere here.
The fact that eucalyptus and palm trees grow only in this area might also amplify the mystical ambiance.
From there, a path continues, lined with 18 rocks symmetrically placed on each side.
During actual births, it is said that a total of 36 royal men sat on these rocks to witness the delivery.
The child being born was a future chief, so they served as witnesses.
After passing through the path of rocks, you’ll find a grove of eucalyptus and palm trees. The 18 large and small rocks scattered beneath them are known as the birthstones.
The Birthstones for Fertility and Safe Childbirth
The birthstone cluster contains many large and uniquely shaped stones.
All of the rocks are considered power stones, and each is said to have a different meaning and role.
The rock actually used for childbirth is truly mysterious; it feels warm to the touch even on cloudy or rainy days.
In ancient Hawaii, records show that if a commoner entered this place, they were executed on the spot.
It is such a sacred place, still cherished and protected by Native Hawaiians today. So, to repeat, please be sure to follow proper etiquette when you visit!
Kukaniloko Birthstones Basic Information
| Name | Kukaniloko Birth Stones |
| Address | Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786 |
| Map | |
| Hours | 24 hours |
| Closed | None |
| Time Required | Approx. 15 minutes or more |
| Restrooms | None |
| Parking | None |
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