City of Refuge Kauai

Located at the mouth of the Wailua River adjacent to Lydgate Beach State Park, the Hauola City of Refuge was an ancient sanctuary for Hawaiian rule breakers. A person charged with breaking a kapu (taboo) could escape punishment by death by reaching this place of refuge (pu’uhonua). Today, the site is marked by a mound of trees and stones. A sign at the site says: “THIS SITE IS SACRED TO THE HAWAIIAN PEOPLE PLEASE SHOW RESPECT KAPU.” Like many historical sites in Kauai, the City of Refuge is easily accessible. To reach the site, park at the back of Lydgate Park (at the end of Nalu Road) and walk towards the mouth of the Wailua River.

Location at Google Maps

City of Refuge Photos