Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
From the lighthouse foundation, trail markings lead directly inland about 100yd to the
Kukui petroglyphs, a cluster of fragile carvings marked by a sign reading 'Do Not De-
face.' The simple figures are etched onto large boulders on the right side of the path.
Keep your eyes open here - sightings of wild mouflon sheep on the inland hills are not
uncommon. Males have curled-back horns, and dominant ones travel with a harem.
Shipwreck in Awalua
HIKING
The lighthouse site is the turn-around point for most people, but it's possible to walk an-
other 6 miles all the way to Awalua, where there's another shipwreck, the WWII tender
YO-21. The hike is windy, hot and dry (bring water); the further down the beach you go,
the prettier it gets.
You'll pass the scant remains of more than a dozen other ships along the way (timbers
and machinery).
Kahokunui to Naha
The stretch of Keomuku Road running from Kahokunui to Naha is just the journey for
those looking for real adventure on LanaŹ»i. From the hillsides it looks barren, but once
you are on it you are shaded by overhanging kiawe trees. The dirt course varies from
smooth to deeply cratered (and impossibly soupy after storms). This is where your 4WD
will justify its daily fee, as you explore the ruins of failed dreams and discover magical
beaches. If the road is passable, driving the entire length should take about an hour. The
reef-protected shore is close to the road but usually not quite visible.
Sights
Maunalei
HISTORICAL SITE
Less than a mile from the end of paved Hwy 44 is Maunalei. An ancient heiau (stone
temple) sat there until 1890, when the Maunalei Sugar Company dismantled it and used
the stones to build a fence and railroad. Shortly after the temple desecration, the com-
pany was beset by misfortune, as saltwater filled the wells and disease decimated the
workforce.
Keomuku
HISTORICAL SITE
