Isle Scenes-Leeward Oahu

Aloha! Here are a few photos I took while out & about. All of these pictures were taken along the Waianae coast, the leeward side of Oahu. This being somewhat out of the way, much of this area is unseen by most visitors. I hope to share with you some of the beauty as well as some of its history & lure

west end

This is the Maile erea, heading towards Makaha. The entire coastline shows off the rugged beauty of the ocean, many scenic as well as historical points of interest lay before those who visit.

west end

This is Kane`aki Heiau, known to have been both an agricultural as well as a war temple. Located in Makaha valley in a beautiful forest right next to a stream. Construction began in the fifteenth century, with two terraces, eventually doubling during the five later construction phases. Kamehameha I quartered his army in Makaha poised to attack neighboring island, Kauai. It is said that his war kahuna (priest) used this heiau to insure a safe & triumphant campaign.

west end

This shows the most westward end of Oahu. Kaena Point taken from the viewpoint of Kaneana cave. Hawaiians believed that this was the point that souls of the dead would leap into the other side. In modern days, this was where the old train would take it's passengers clear around to the North shore. There is no road here now, but there are many endagered & protected native Hawaiian plants. There are large boulders to block vehicles from driving through this area as well. This is also the location of what is called the Kaena Challenge. Because the waves don't break here until their at least 30 feet, someone always wants to attempt to ride these waves ...No one in modern day has.

west end

This is a view of Nanakuli beach park, also formerly known as Kalaniana'ole beach park, named in honor of Prince Jonah Kalaniana'ole. This beach was featured in the movie Hawaii where all of the islanders greet one of the ships. Calm during non-winter months, it can get pretty trecherous otherwise. Use caution and ask the lifeguard about undertows & currents no matter what time of year.

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