For centuries, the pu’uhonua was holy ground where no blood could be shed so it became a sanctuary for those seeking refuge from war, from enemies, or from death for breaking a sacred law called kapu. This practice ended in 1819 when time-honored religious practices were abolished. This grove of coconut trees along this white sandy beach was planted about one hundred years later. They offer refuge from the hot sun to tourists who are visiting the Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park.
