Poliahu Heiau is one of seven heiaus of major importance that used to be in the Wailua river valley. From the Opaeka'a falls lookout you can reach this Heiau. You'll also notice on the right bank of the river (at this same pullout) is Kamokila, a re-created Hawaiian village that is also worth a visit.
Using the directions below you can locate the Heiau and find quite a bit of information on the placards in the vicinity of the sacred site. One of the informative placards at the site even shows the original layout of the heiau. The tall structure shown is an "anu'u" or oracle tower which was used for offerings and for channeling information from the gods. The hut would have been used to store sacred objects like temple drums, because this heiau would have been used mostly for ceremonial purposes.
On the far side of the heiau, on the right corner is a bronze plaque put up by a Territorial governor in the 1930s to designate this heiau as a historical site, and it is mentioned that is was built by the Menehunes (the plaque also calls them "Hawaiian brownies"). By Hawaiian tradition, however, the Menehune were an elder race known for their skill at stoneworking.
One of the only respectful entry areas into the heiau is at the left or southeastern corner. Behind the trees on the left is a cliff that drops down to the Wailua River. Some people like to meditate inside the space, so respect their privacy. Please remember that Heiau are very sacred places.
Source: Aloha International
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