What Is the Nuʻuanu Petroglyph Complex?
There are several panels of ancient petroglyphs in the Nuʻuanu Valley on Oʻahu!
What Makes It Historical?
No one knows for sure how old these petroglyphs, etched by ancient Hawaiians, actually are, and what they represent is up to best guesswork! They feature humans and dogs, which correspond to the myth of Kaupe, the misty dog man, or ʻōlohe! Kaupe supposedly grew up in Līhuʻe and used his supernatural power to overthrow the first chief, Kahānaiakeakua and become ruler of Nuʻuanu Valley!
Kaupe made the mistake of kidnapping the son of a chief from the Big Island, and that chief, aided by a kahuna named Kahilona, tricked Kaupe, rescued his son, and ultimately defeated the wicked ʻōlohe! The spirit of Kaupe returned to the Nuʻuanu Valley, where folklore says he still calls folks to their doom out of the mist!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Become a member of the Hawaiian Historical Society!
- Donate to the Hawaiian Historical Society!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
2233 Nuuanu Ave
Honolulu, HI 96817
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
The trailhead is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM!
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