Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
Sometime around 1790, this "Place of Worship" was built by King Kamehameha I as an offering to the gods to ask for success in his campaign to unite the Hawaiian Islands. One of the larger heiau (temples) in Hawaii, Kamehameha I dedicated the site to the war god Kukailimoku before setting out to conquer the neighbor Islands. It worked, as the monarchy he created lasted until 1893. This massive stone temple has been carefully preserved, and it is believed to be one of the last sacred structures built in the Hawaiian Islands before western influence.
Take a self-guided tour of this partially restored fishing settlement, located about 12 miles north of Kawaihae. Dating back more than 600 years, the 262-acre park offers a glimpse of how Native Hawaiian once lived. See traditional hale (houses) and lava stone walls, and play Hawaiian games.
The upland town of Waimea is paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country. Saddle up and ride through the wide-open spaces. Several area ranches offer the opportunity to ride the range in a guided tour of the coastline and peaks. Spend some time poking among eclectic shops and the freshest produce at roadside and stands and farmers' markets.
Hawi
The small town of Hawi is actually the largest city in North Kohala, though it's probably best known as the bicycle turnaround for the Ironman World Championship held every October. Hawai is home to a number of boutiques, restaurants and art galleries with works by local artists. For a fun adventure, take a guided tour of the area's waterfalls. When you get to Pololu Valley Overlook, east from Hawi, you've reached the end of the road where views overlooking the northeastern coastline are spectacular!
