Our Heritage

From the slopes of Hualālai to where ancient lava flows greet the sea, the Kohanaiki ahupuaʻa (land division) is an abundant playground, comprised of archeological and cultural sites, rich volcanic soil for crop cultivation, and teeming ocean wildlife directly offshore. Kohanaiki has worked closely with Hawaiian cultural practitioners in a shared commitment to protecting the many sacred treasures of ancient day Hawaii that still exist here today, and to operate with respect and aloha for those who were here before us. As stewards of this special place, we hold that responsibility in high regard. Kohanaiki is not just a private community, it is a way of life.

History

Honoring Our Past, Present, and Future

With 450 acres of oceanfront property amidst numerous archeological and cultural sites, Kohanaikiʻs history spans over centuries. From the days of Kamehameha the Great to the generations of ʻohana that have cared for this land, every aspect of Kohanaiki living is intertwined in historical significance. The artifact room at Kohanaiki Clubhouse showcases treasures thousands of years old, such as hula implements, books, fishing nets, and rock carvings, as well as a koa wood outrigger canoe. A Kōnane (Hawaiian checkers) game carved into rock can be found at the entrance of its namesake. Ancient heiau, paena waʻa (canoe landings), kiʻi pōhaku (petroglyphs), and kūʻula (fishing shrines) all exist today on Kohanaiki property, while the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail that leads to the Kaloko Honokōhau National Historic Park is just merely a short jaunt. Kohanaikiʻs amenities are not only lavish, but hold the rich stories of the generations that came before us.

Living Treasure of Hawaii

Auntie Elizabeth Maluʻihi Lee

Born in Kohanaiki in 1929, the late Auntie Elizabeth Maluʻihi Lee was an inspiration and embodiment of the aloha spirit. Beloved by many, she selflessly shared her gifts and knowledge with the world, especially in the art of lauhala weaving, which earned her the title of Living Treasure of Hawaii. Auntie Elizabeth was instrumental in connecting the lineal descendents of Kohanaiki to foster a clear path to protect, preserve and restore the many historical sites at Kohanaiki.

Sustainability

Living Lightly under the Palms

A need to care. A responsibility to do the right thing. At the core of Kohanaiki, we know that caring for mother earth is the only way to have lokahi (harmony and balance). In every corner - the Clubhouse, Golf Course, Beach Club and beyond - environmentally sustainable, innovative initiatives are incorporated into Kohanaikiʻs landscape. A solar powered desalination and reverse osmosis system to provide the one-million gallons of water needed to water the golf course daily. The heat-exchange system that extracts from the air-conditioning system to heat the swimming pools. Methods of intelligent luxury, from intentional landscape strategies to eco-friendly building practices, all speak to the mantra that we are all-in, connected with nature, and living lightly under the palms.

Ki‘i Pōhaku

Throughout Kohanaiki one can find numerous Ki‘i Pōhaku, or Petroglyphs. These ancient rock etchings were formed years ago using only hand tools. Each Petroglyph tells a different story. Some represent a family’s lineage or storyline, others represent a god or deity, and some may represent the significance of a certain location. The Kohanaiki logo is taken from a Petroglyph of a fisherman found at the shoreline.

Canoe House

Hale Wa‘a

Ka Hale Wa‘a is an A-frame structure built in traditional Hawaiian style, using native ‘Ōhia wood, rocks, and thatch made of native Lo‘ulu Palm leaves. The Hale is used as a meeting place and education center for local community cultural groups. The Hale is named after Wāwahiwa‘a Pt., which is located in front of the structure. Wāwahiwa‘a loosely translates to “broken canoe,” most likely due to the rough conditions and currents found just off shore.

Papakōnane

Kōnane is a board game that cultivated analytical and strategic skills useful in war and peace. Kamehameha and other prominent ali‘i were expert players. To play Kōnane, the Hawaiians would create a board by etching a flat rock to create a square “board” with an equal number of holes on each side. For the game pieces, they would use small black or white pebbles. A petroglyph of a Kōnane Board on the Kohanaiki shoreline was the inspiration for our signature Kōnane Restaurant.

A Tradition of Skill and Patience

Lauhala

Lauhala weaving is the oldest skill of Hawaiian craft-making, a tradition dating back to pre-contact Hawaii. Using the lau (leaf) from the native hala (pandanus) tree, lauhala weavers create intricate works of art, from baskets, mats, clothing, and accessories. The pāpale (hat) is the most recognizable status symbol of masterful lauhala weaving - receiving a handmade pāpale is considered a valuable and honorable gift. Proudly displayed in the Clubhouse is an exhibit featuring the stages of pāpale creation by the late Auntie Elizabeth Malu‘ihi Lee, master weaver and cultural icon in the art of lauhala weaving.