Wailua Heritage Trail ©Gelston Dwight
Explore the History of the Royal Coconut Coast
The Royal Coconut Coast boasts numerous historical and cultural areas, many of them marked with interpretive signage and walking trail access. At Lydgate Park, there is a 2.9 mile round-trip walking path between the Wailua River mouth and Kamalani Kai to the west. It is marked by informative historic signage explaining sites, customs, traditions, ceremonies and practices of the Native Hawaiian population, where much of this land was considered sacred.
Along the Ke Ala Hele Makalae multi-use walking and bike path, more interpretive signage provides insights into the history and coastal features along this magnificent 4.1- mile stretch of shoreline.
Seven heiau, (temples or shrines), were built on sacred ground, forming an arc, from the shores of the Wailua River, heading up to Mt. Wai’ale’ale, and ending on Kauai’s west side. Several heiau and preservation sites dot the Wailua River and are marked by the Wailua Heritage Trail. Some of the stone structures still exist, have interpretive signage and are open to the public. These heiau are still sacred sites so please treat the area with respect when visiting, do not leave anything behind and do not move any rocks.
On the southern shore of the Wailua River once stood Hikina a ka la meaning Rising of the sun, because the stone structure used to light up when the bright rays of the morning sun rose out of the Eastern sea. The largest heiau that remains today is also along the Wailua River, it was called Malae, and was used for ceremonies. The oldest heiau on Kauai is nearby in the mountains of Wailua, said to have been built by the menehune, a race of little people in Hawaiian legends.
Browse Some of RCCA’s Members
Passion Bakery Cafe
Passion Bakery Café is a wholesale and retail bakery and café located in the Kinipopo Shopping Village. Cookies, Pasties, and Croisscones hand made with PASSION using high quality, fresh ingredients can be enjoyed along with a Coffee, Espresso, or Tea. Malasadas made fresh every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Also specializing in daily plate lunch specials and gourmet made from scratch pizzas.
Lava Lava Beach Club
Enjoy our chef’s fresh fish entrees, pizzas and the best fish tacos around. Combine live music daily with the best Mai Tai in Hawaii and you have the perfect Hawaii experience. Just like our Big Island location, both locals and visitors will love the fun hip vibe, incredible views and the best libations and food on Kauai.
Oasis on the Beach
Oasis is a beautiful oceanfront restaurant in Kapaa, that showcases the best of what Kauai has to offer in cuisine, service and ambiance. We strongly believe that residents and guests of Hawaii want to experience the true taste of Hawaii. Relax and enjoy yourself as the attentive staff caters to your needs while you delight in the tantalizing food, delightful beverages, and the stunning view! We always source the best fresh local fish and grass fed local meats.
