Visiting Hawaiʻi is a privilege, and understanding the cultural significance of its sacred sites is paramount for respectful and responsible tourism. These places, known as wahi pana, are not just scenic viewpoints or historical landmarks; they are living connections to the past, present, and future of Native Hawaiian culture. By learning about and honoring these sites, we can contribute to their preservation and show our aloha for the people and land of Hawaiʻi.
Understanding Wahi Pana: More Than Just a Pretty View
Wahi pana literally translates to “celebrated place.” These sites hold deep spiritual, historical, and cultural meaning for Native Hawaiians. They can be natural formations like mountains (mauna), volcanoes (puʻu), coastlines (kahakai), and springs (puna), or man-made structures like temples (heiau), fishponds (loko iʻa), and burial grounds (heiau). Each wahi pana has its own unique story, often interwoven with ancestral lineages (moʻokuʻauhau), creation myths (ka moʻolelo o ke au kahiko), and significant events that shaped Hawaiian history.
It’s crucial to remember that these aren’t just “attractions”. They are places where cultural practices were, and often still are, carried out. Showing respect is about acknowledging that these places hold a power and connection to the Hawaiian people that goes beyond what a visitor might immediately perceive.
Common Types of Sacred Sites and Their Significance
Let’s delve into some specific types of wahi pana you might encounter, along with examples and how to approach them respectfully:
Heiau (Temples): Heiau were sacred structures used for worship, ceremonies, and sometimes even royal residences. They range in size and importance; some were dedicated to specific gods or purposes, like agriculture or healing. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island is a stunning example. It served as a place of refuge for lawbreakers, offering them sanctuary.
Respect Tip: Avoid climbing on the walls or structures. Speak quietly, and be mindful of your surroundings. Many heiau are marked with signs indicating appropriate behavior.
Accessibility: Pu’uhonua o Honaunau has an entrance fee of $25 per vehicle or $15 per motorcycle. It is generally open daily from 7:00 AM to sunset. Check the National Park Service website for closures or updated information before visiting.
Burial Grounds (Iwi Kupuna): These are incredibly sensitive sites. Native Hawaiians hold deep reverence for their ancestors, and disturbing burial grounds is considered a grave offense.
Respect Tip: Never, under any circumstances, touch or remove anything from a burial site. If you accidentally stumble upon one, quietly leave the area. Stay on marked trails and away from dunes or areas that appear to be undisturbed.
Legal Implications: Disturbing burial sites carries significant legal penalties. Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, Chapter 6E, protects historic properties, including burial sites. Fines and even imprisonment can result from violations.
Fishponds (Loko Iʻa): Ancient Hawaiian fishponds were ingenious aquaculture systems designed to cultivate fish for sustenance. Many are still in use today, and their preservation is a vital part of maintaining traditional practices and food security.
Respect Tip: If visiting a fishpond, avoid throwing rocks or disturbing the water. If given the opportunity to learn about its history and purpose, listen attentively and ask respectful questions.
Example: The Aliʻi Fishpond in Heʻeia, Oʻahu, offers educational tours and volunteer opportunities. Check their website for scheduling and pricing.
Petroglyphs (Kiʻi Pōhaku): Carved into rocks, these ancient drawings tell stories, record events, and convey spiritual messages. They are delicate and easily damaged.
Respect Tip: Never touch petroglyphs. The oils on your skin can damage the rock and fade the images over time. Stay on designated paths and heed any posted warnings.
Example: Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offers a boardwalk for viewing a vast collection of petroglyphs.
Volcanoes (Puʻu): Considered the embodiment of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, volcanoes hold immense spiritual significance.
Respect Tip: Follow all park regulations and safety guidelines. Avoid taking rocks or lava as souvenirs, as this is considered disrespectful. Offerings to Pele are traditionally left by Native Hawaiians, and it’s best not to interfere with those practices.
Example: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is an excellent place to experience the power and beauty of Hawaiian volcanoes. There is an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
Practical Tips for Responsible Visitors
Here’s how you can be a responsible visitor and show respect for sacred sites:
Do Your Research: Before you go, learn about the history and cultural significance of the places you plan to visit. Read books, watch documentaries, and consult reliable sources about Hawaiian culture. A great resource is the Office of Hawaiian Affairs website.
Follow Posted Signs and Guidelines: Pay attention to signs indicating restricted areas or appropriate behavior. These signs are there for a reason – to protect the site and honor its cultural significance.
Ask Permission: If you’re unsure whether an activity is appropriate, ask a local resident or cultural practitioner. Showing that you are considerate demonstrates respect.
Dress Appropriately: When visiting sacred sites, dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or swimsuits.
Be Mindful of Noise Levels: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Avoid loud talking, music, or disruptive behavior.
Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in, and dispose of your trash properly. Do not disturb the natural environment or remove any rocks, plants, or other objects.
Respect Private Property: Many sacred sites are located on private land. Always respect property boundaries and seek permission before entering.
Support Local Businesses: Patronize businesses that are owned and operated by Native Hawaiians and that are committed to cultural preservation.
Learn Basic Hawaiian Phrases: Even knowing a few simple phrases like “Aloha” (hello/love) and “Mahalo” (thank you) can go a long way in demonstrating your respect.
Attend Cultural Events: Participate in local events, such as hula performances or cultural festivals, to learn more about Hawaiian traditions and customs.
Be Aware of Photography Restrictions: Some sacred sites may have restrictions on photography. Always ask permission before taking photos, especially of people.
Consider a Guided Tour: Often, the best way to learn about a site and its significance is to take a guided tour with a knowledgeable local expert. These tours often provide insights and perspectives you wouldn’t get on your own. For example, many tour operators offer respectful cultural tours of Iao Valley.
Heed Local Warnings: Pay attention to any warnings about dangerous conditions, such as strong currents or unstable terrain. Safety is paramount for both you and the preservation of the site.
Common Misconceptions to Avoid
Let’s clear up some common misunderstandings that can lead to unintentional disrespect:
“I can take this rock/shell as a souvenir”: Removing anything from a sacred site, whether it’s a rock, shell, or piece of lava, is considered disrespectful. These objects are part of the site’s history and cultural significance. Please leave them where they are.
“This is just an old ruin, so it’s okay to climb on it”: Even if a site appears to be abandoned or in disrepair, it still holds cultural significance. Climbing on structures can cause damage and shows a lack of respect for the site’s history.
“I don’t see anyone here, so it’s okay to do whatever I want”: Even if you’re alone, remember that you’re on sacred ground. Act with respect and reverence, as if you were in a place of worship.
“I’m not Hawaiian, so these customs don’t apply to me”: Respect for sacred sites is a universal principle. Regardless of your background, you have a responsibility to honor the cultural heritage of the place you’re visiting.
Real-World Examples of Respectful Tourism
Let’s look at some specific examples of how visitors can demonstrate respect:
At Pu’uhonua o Honaunau: Instead of rushing through the site, take your time to explore the grounds and read the interpretive signs. Attend a ranger program to learn more about the history and significance of the place. Avoid sitting or leaning on the stone walls of the Great Wall (Pā Hōlua).
Visiting ‘Iao Valley State Monument: Be mindful of the valley’s history as a site of battle and reverence. Stay on the designated trails to prevent erosion and protect the area’s delicate ecosystem. The Iao Needle (Kūkaniloko) is a significant landmark, so observe it respectfully from designated viewing areas.
Planning Your Visit: Reservations are now required for parking at Iao Valley. This helps manage crowds and protect the site. Book your reservation online in advance of your visit. The cost is $5 per vehicle for non-residents.
Exploring Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: Observe the Kilauea volcano safely from designated viewing areas. Avoid approaching active lava flows, and never throw anything into the crater. Before visiting, check the park’s website for current conditions and warnings.
Volunteering with Cultural Organizations: A great way to give back is to participate in restoration or preservation projects. Many organizations are engaged in restoring loʻi kalo (taro patches) or cleaning up coastal areas. This provides a hands-on learning experience and a tangible way to show your aloha for the land.
Engaging with Local Communities
One of the most meaningful ways to show respect for Hawaiian culture is to engage with local communities. Here are some suggestions:
Attend Local Events: Go to hula performances, music festivals, or art fairs. This provides insight into contemporary Hawaiian culture and supports local artists and performers.
Take a Class: Learn to dance hula, play the ukulele, or speak basic Hawaiian. This demonstrates your interest in learning about the culture and connecting with it on a deeper level.
Eat at Local Restaurants: Support locally owned restaurants that serve traditional Hawaiian food. This is a great way to experience the flavors of Hawaiʻi and contribute to the local economy.
Purchase Local Products: Buy souvenirs and gifts from local artisans and craftspeople. This supports their businesses and helps preserve traditional crafts.
Listen to Local Voices: Seek out perspectives from Native Hawaiian voices on issues related to cultural preservation, tourism, and environmental sustainability.
The Role of Businesses and Tour Operators
Businesses and tour operators have a crucial role to play in promoting responsible tourism and educating visitors about Hawaiian culture. It is essential for tourists to demand high ethical standards and actively seek out businesses that prioritize cultural sensitivity.
Choose Responsible Tour Operators: Look for tour companies that emphasize cultural education and environmental responsibility. Ask them about their commitment to respecting sacred sites and supporting local communities.
Support Businesses that Give Back: Patronize businesses that donate a portion of their profits to cultural or environmental organizations.
Encourage Cultural Training: Support businesses that provide cultural training to their employees. This ensures that staff members are knowledgeable about Hawaiian history and customs and can provide accurate information to visitors.
By making informed choices, tourists can support companies that are dedicated to responsible and respectful practices. This shifts the focus away from purely transactional interactions toward meaningful exchanges that benefit both visitors and the local community.
The Consequences of Disrespect
It’s important to understand the potential consequences of disrespecting sacred sites. These consequences can range from fines and legal penalties to causing irreparable damage to cultural heritage. Beyond the legal and material impacts, there’s a strong element of spiritual repercussions in Hawaiian belief. Disrespecting a wahi pana is considered an insult to the ancestors and the gods, and can bring bad luck or negative consequences.
More broadly, disrespect harms the relationship between visitors and the local community. It erodes trust and creates resentment. Responsible tourism is not just about avoiding negative impacts; it’s about building positive relationships and contributing to the well-being of the places we visit.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about respecting sacred sites in Hawaiʻi:
Why are these sites considered sacred?
These sites are considered sacred because they are deeply connected to Hawaiian history, spirituality, and cultural identity. They are places where ancestors lived, ceremonies were performed, and important events took place. They are living reminders of the past and sources of spiritual power.
What if I accidentally disrespect a site?
If you accidentally disrespect a site, the best thing to do is to apologize sincerely and take steps to correct your mistake. If you’ve damaged something, try to repair it or report it to the appropriate authorities. Show genuine remorse and a willingness to learn from your experience.
How can I learn more about Hawaiian culture?
There are many ways to learn more about Hawaiian culture, including reading books, watching documentaries, visiting cultural centers, attending local events, and talking to Native Hawaiian people. The more you learn, the better equipped you’ll be to show respect for sacred sites and cultural traditions.
Is it okay to take photos at sacred sites?
Photography may be restricted at some sacred sites. Always look for signs indicating whether photography is allowed. If you’re unsure, ask permission before taking photos, especially of people.
What should I do if I see someone else disrespecting a site?
If you see someone else disrespecting a site, you can politely inform them about the cultural significance of the place and encourage them to be more respectful. If the behavior is more serious or involves illegal activities, report it to the appropriate authorities.
References
Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes, Chapter 6E.
National Park Service.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Respecting sacred sites in Hawai’i isn’t just a rule—it’s an invitation to connect with the rich history and vibrant culture of this special place. By taking the time to learn, understand, and act respectfully, you can transform your visit from a simple vacation into a meaningful experience that honors the legacy of Hawai’i and its people. Make a conscious decision to be a responsible traveler, and let your journey be guided by aloha and respect. Your actions contribute to the preservation of these irreplaceable treasures for generations to come. Book a cultural tour today, research the history of the islands you plan to visit, and let’s collectively contribute to responsible tourism in Hawai’i. Mahalo nui loa!
