Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the otherworldly landscape of the Garden of the Gods
This still does nothing to describe how boulders that weigh thousands of pounds came
to exist on a hillside that is otherwise devoid of boulders. According to legend, these rocks
were dropped here by gods as they tended to their heavenly gardens, providing the basis
for the site's English name, “Garden of the Gods,” by which it is regularly known today.
Regardless of name or legend or erosion or lore, Keahiakawelo remains a must-see loc-
ation for Lana'i visitors if for no other reason than the consuming sense of seclusion. The
road out here can be rutted and rough, and four-wheel drive is needed if visiting after a
heavy rain. To reach the site, take a left just after The Lodge at Koele and travel seven
miles on Polihua Road, veering right at the fork after the Koele Stables.
On the dusty stretch of road between the Keahiakawelo and Polihua Beach, a side road
branches off to the left and leads to the island's westernmost promontory, Ka'ena Point.
The deep waters off Ka'ena make this a favorite among island fishers. Also from
