Looking for a new Honolulu activity on your Hawaii vacation? I have a recommendation to make. I can tell you its name, Manoa Heritage Center, but have been asked not provide the exact location. Yes, this hidden gem asks for discretion.
You can’t drop by unannounced. I’ll explain why later. A reservation is needed and I had to call two weeks in advance for mine. I’m allowed to give you the phone number to call: 808-988-1287. At just $7 for each adult, this pairs well with your Hawaii travel deal. Be sure to arrive on time, wear walking shoes, hat and sunscreen. Have water.
You’re going to be seeing one of the few traditional Hawaiian structures that exists in urban Honolulu.
It’s the thousand year old Kuka`o`o heiau, restored in 1993, that was used for rites and rituals surrounding food productivity. Surrounding Kuka`o`o are native Hawaiian plants and a large Tudor Revival Style Home called Kuali`i.
Centuries ago there were 14 heiau in Manoa. Kuka`o`o survived because of a decision made years ago by Monty Cooke. When his mansion was being built in 1911, the architect wanted to locate the home on top of the heiau because of better views of Waikiki and the Manoa Valley. Monty said no. He wanted the heiau protected.
The current residents of Kuali`i are Sam and Mary Cooke. Sam is Monty’s grandson. Like his grandfather he is a preservationist. When Monty died in 1948 he bequeathed the land where the heiau stands to his daughter. She later sold it to a developer and Sam bought the parcel back saving the heiau a second time.
The nonprofit Manoa Heritage Center was established in 1996 by the Cookes’. Their home is a private residence, which is why their address has been omitted. Kuali`i is on the National Register of Historic Places. Some day it may be open to the public as a historic museum. For now you can explore the grounds and heiau by reservation only.
laola (9 months ago)
Just noting the typo Heihau I believe you meant heiau??? Also it says current residents are Sam and Mary Cook. Then it states Sam died in 1948. Then Sam bought it back a second time….which seems to allude to that he is alive. Just a little confused if Sam is alive or not and how Sam could be a current resident if he is no longer living. Sorry to confuse things more. Am I reading it wrong?
Rob (9 months ago)
I guess my proofreader failed me today, laola! You’re right on both accounts. Changes have been made. Mahalo for your help.
Rob
Lynne Mack (9 months ago)
i know you guys aren’t mind readers but do you anticipate any change in fares going from kauai to oakland in the near future? thanks for all that you share, lynne
Jeff (9 months ago)
Hi Lynne.
It looks like you’re the mind reader. Today’s post has exactly what you asked about.
Aloha, Jeff
lynne (9 months ago)
thank you so much, i just booked my flights
Marilyn C. (9 months ago)
Would like to visit this special place. Can you get to the site via public transportation from Waikiki? Thanks.
Rob (9 months ago)
Hi Marilyn,
As far as I know, the nearest bus stop is about a 10 minute walk (Oahu Avenue and East Manoa Rd.).
Aloha,
Rob
Marilyn C. (9 months ago)
Great I can handle that. Thanks again.