Overview of Kohala

Kohala, located on the northernmost tip of Hawai‘i Island, is a region steeped in history and cultural significance. Known as the birthplace of Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands, Kohala holds a special place in Hawai‘i's legacy. The area is rich with mo‘olelo (stories), including the legend of the great rains of Kūkū‘ula, a supernatural rooster said to have brought rain to the parched lands of Kohala. The region was historically an agricultural hub, with extensive lo‘i kalo (taro fields) and ‘uala (sweet potato) cultivation sustained by its innovative irrigation systems like the Kohala Ditch, which still plays a role today. The landscape is marked by lush valleys, like Pololū, and ancient heiau (temples) such as Mo‘okini Heiau, which is one of the oldest in Hawai‘i and remains a sacred site. Kohala embodies the resilience of Hawaiian culture and the enduring connection between the people and their ‘āina (land).