From the breathtaking Nā Pali Coast to the enchanting Hanalei Bay, Kaua‘i offers an abundance of unique experiences that will leave you awe-struck. Immerse yourself in the island's natural wonders, delve into its rich history, and embrace the spirit of aloha as you discover the treasures of this captivating Garden Isle.
1908 The Lighthouse Service, part of the U.S. Commerce and Labor Department, erected a lighthouse was established along the seaward portion of the project. In 1914, the facility was described in lighthouse records as a white house with a 40 ft high lead-colored mast and a red fixed light.
1940 The Massachusetts Institute of Technology developed the Long Range Navigation system. In 1951 a new station for a LORAN-A receiver was established at Makahū‘ena Point within what is now Makahū‘ena Estates. The facility included up to 6 buildings and a 280 foot all antenna.
1979 Upon the deactivation of the LORAN station, the facilities at Makahū‘ena Point evolved into a group home and emergency shelter for Hale ‘Ōpio, a Kaua‘i based non-profit offering youth, family services and treatment facilities.
1996 The U.S Government, deeming Makahūena Point a surplus property, auctioned the property in 1996 to the successful bidder: Cook Inlet Region, Inc., (CIRI). CIRI acquired the property as part of the 1976 Cook Inlet Land Exchange, which enabled the company to bid on federal surplus properties throughout the U.S. Initially, the land on which Makahū‘ena Estates would be built was platted for 25 single-family lots and several other larger parcels; today the development provides for just 10 premier parcels.
Makahū’ena resides in the ahupua‘a of Weliweli. Early Hawaiians adhered to an efficient and sustainable land management system called ahupua‘a—wedge-shaped land sections that usually ran from the mountains to the sea. Each ahupua‘a contained the resources that particular human community needed, from fish and salt, to fertile land for farming taro or sweet potato, to koa and other trees growing in upslope areas. Remnants from archaeological studies note that Keoneloa Bay and Makahū‘ena Point once hosted a thriving native Hawaiian fishing village. Villagers from the coast often traded fish for other foods or for wood to build canoes and houses. Breadfruit, taro and coconut are still visible to this day along the coastline heritage trail.
The surrounding area hosts a bounty of ocean delights and recreation. Swimming, surfing and cliff jumping in Keoneloa Bay are favorites among locals and visitors alike, and traditional fishing, diving and gathering of limu (edible sea plants) and ʻopihi (edible limpets) continue along the coast. Makahū‘ena point has remained a favorite area for fishing throughout history. Today that tradition lives on with many who fish here casting their lines out into the ocean in hopes of landing a fish to feed their ‘ohana.
Hawaiian cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and unique blend of cultural influences, offers a rich culinary experience that reflects the islands' history and diverse heritage. On the picturesque south shore of Kauaʻi, visitors have the opportunity to savor the authentic tastes of traditional Hawaiian food while immersing themselves in the island's captivating culture.
