The backstory behind an ancient Hawaiian cliff jump
This ancient site on the southwestern coast of the Hawaiian Island of Lanai is home to a legendary cliff diving spot, which played a crucial role in society hundreds of years ago.
These days, the Kaunolu Village area is a popular spot to watch the sunset for the people who make up the sparse population of the island.
It’s a challenge to get to for visitors, and you should only attempt the drive if it hasn’t rained, and you have a 4x4.
It’s worth the effort! The site is really interesting, and chances are: you’ll be the only one there exploring the stunning cliffs and landscape.
You’ll arrive at a parking area which almost resembles an African savannah, with tall green grasses and interesting trees with long, gangly limbs.
From there, you’ll descend down a trail toward more rocky terrain and the ocean.
Volcanic eruptions formed the island, and earthquakes have contributed to the changing geography over the years.
The trail is lined with markers, historical points, and displays, which explain the history of the ruins on site.
The cliffs rise more than a thousand feet above the sea. The drop-off is intense, and the waves crash violently into the rocks below.
After the trail, be sure to walk down to the rocky coast, where you’re likely to see dolphins and whales swimming off shore, and seals sunning themselves on the rocks. The tidal pools are interesting to explore during low tide, too.
The History
The Kealia Kapu-Kaunolu Village Heritage Trail is about half-a-mile in length, over manageable, semi-rough terrain. It leads you though several sites around the cliffs, and features signs explaining the importance of the ruins and traditions from hundreds of years ago.
Archeologists first started surveying this part of Lanai 100 years ago. The village includes ceremonial sites, and the remnants of homes and shrines.
During the 1790s, legendary Hawaiian King Kamehameha is said to have enjoyed living and fishing in this spot temporarily. The ruins of a building said to be Kamehameha’s residence still exist along the cliffs.
The most fascinating part of the visit is a cliff over the ocean, called Kahekili’s Leap.
It’s a stone platform men would jump from, to prove their bravery, to atone for their crimes, and to perform various acts of spirituality.
This particular cliff is 60-feet above the ocean, and signs beg people not to attempt the leap over the rocks into the choppy sea below.
Getting there
You’ll have to rent a 4x4, which you should book in advance.
If you’re staying at one of the resorts, they can organize a rental for you.
If you’re going for the day from Maui, there are a few rental companies, which typically charge between $200 and $300 for a day.
One option is Lanai Car Rental and another is Lanai Cheap Jeeps. Both are located in Lanai City, which is a 20-minute drive from the harbor.
You can reserve shuttles to get you to the rental company headquarters in town:
Rebecca’s Shuttle: (808) 559-0230
Dela Cruz Taxi (808 649-8001
