Ancient Waikiki & Sacred Valley Exploration
Explore the legendary lands of Waikiki on this unique tour of an ancient Hawaiian ahupua'a, a traditional land division stretching from the lush mountain summits to the coral fishing grounds of the sea.
From the uplands to the coastal plains, the ancient Hawaiians lived in harmony with their resources and created a thriving community extending from the wetlands of Waikiki to the rich, verdant valley of Manoa. Learn the marvelous history and many colorful legends of this ancient ahupua'a as you explore archaeological and sacred sites, royal grounds, native gardens, and a cascading rainforest stream.
This tour is offered as a two-part series which may be taken as separate tours or combined together as a full-day experience.
PART I: WAIKIKI: FROM ANCIENT CAPITAL TO MODERN MECCA
Stroll along the sands of time on this morning tour of ancient and modern Waikiki. Once the capital of the high chiefs of O'ahu, Waikiki was a land of flowing abundance, of healing sites and heiau (temples), royal playgrounds and legendary palm trees, and the famous surf of Ka-lehua-wehe.
Listen to the colorful legends of the ancient days and learn why this land was so beloved of Hawaii’s chiefs and chiefesses. Then learn how Waikiki has transformed through the ages to a retreat of royal monarchs and 19th century writers, the stomping grounds of the legendary "beach boys" and a modern tour mecca.
Cost: $20 Time: 7:00am – 9:00am Walking Distance: 1/2 – 3/4 mile
PART II: SACRED VALLEY EXPLORATION
Sweeping upward from Waikiki lies the beautiful valley of Manoa, a lush and fertile land of flowing water and rainforests. Here the ancient Hawaiians created a vast, terraced network of taro fields and built finely-crafted temples.
Explore the rich history, cultural feats and archaeological treasures of Manoa Valley while listening to legends of owl gods and rain children on this unique, one-of-a-kind tour.
Sites visited include:
Kuka'o'o Heiau: Recently restored, this ancient temple occupies a commanding view of the valley and was an important site for prayer and legends. Situated on a lovely historical estate surrounded by a garden of endangered native plants. This tour offers exclusive access to this site.
Pu'u 'Ualaka'a Lookout: A spectacular view of Manoa Valley, Waikiki and the island of O'ahu. This was also the site of an ancient lava flow into the valley below.
Archaeological Stream Stroll: Stroll along a lovely rainforest path to a cascading stream and ancient rock wall terracing systems.
Plant an Endangered Species: Help Hina nurture a native Hawaiian plant in a restoration garden. Then watch it grow on the internet!
*Lunch stop: Tour also includes a brief lunch stop at a favorite local deli.
Cost: $78 Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm Walking Distance: 1 mile
Tour Details
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