Flooding is the clearest natural hazard at Puʻukoholā Heiau, with county records logging 9 flood-related events — including 5 flash floods — in the tracking period. Flash floods in particular can develop rapidly in Hawaii's coastal and upland terrain, catching visitors off guard even on days that start dry.
Before heading out, check the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast specifically for flash flood watches on the Big Island's western slopes, since storms can build quickly inland and push water toward lower ground near the site. Pack a waterproof dry bag for phones, documents, and car keys, and if you're exploring the coastal trail and skies darken, move to your vehicle immediately rather than waiting for rain to intensify. Staying parked in a paved, elevated lot rather than roadside pullouts gives you a faster, safer exit if water begins to rise.
Top recorded hazards in Hawaii County
County dataFrom NOAA Storm Events (2024). Counts of recorded incidents — not all occurred at this park.
- Flash Flood 5
- Flood 4
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About Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
How many places in America can you walk in the footsteps of a king? Where else has a stranded sailor risen up to become a great chief over an entire island? Where else can you experience the culminating event of a people, foretold from centuries past? Where else can you stand on a beach and watch as sharks pass over a submerged temple? Experience all this and much more – only at Pu'ukoholā Heiau!
Weather
The weather in the park is typically hot and sunny with daytime temperatures in the upper 80's. An excellent time to experience the park is in the morning and in the late afternoon when the temperatures are a bit cooler. The park is open daily from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. However, the park and or trail does occasionally close because of high winds or dangerous storm conditions. Please check with the visitor center or your hotel for any weather advisories or hazardous conditions on the day of your visit.