Kahoolawe Island Guide

Learn about the history of unique island

KAHO'OLAWE ISLAND RESERVE COMMISSION

Our Vision: The kino (physical manifestation) of Kanaloa is restored. Forests and shrublands of native plants and other biota clothe its slopes and valleys. Pristine ocean waters and healthy reef ecosystems are the foundation that supports and surrounds the island. Nā poʻe o Hawaiʻi (the people of Hawaiʻi) care for the land in a manner, which recognizes the island and ocean of Kanaloa as a living spiritual entity. Kanaloa is a puʻuhonua and wahi pana (a place of refuge, a sacred place) where native Hawaiian cultural practices flourish. The piko of Kanaloa (the navel, the center) is the crossroads of past and future generations from which the native Hawaiian lifestyle is spread throughout the islands.