Honouliuli National Historic Site is not open to the public due to lack of access and ongoing development. However, you can visit the Honouliuli Education Center at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii during their gift shop hours, which are typically open during the center’s operating hours.
Entry to Honouliuli National Historic Site is free, with no entrance fee or pass required, though it is currently closed to the general public due to lack of public access.
From Honolulu, take H-1 West, then exit to Kunia Road, a journey through Hawaii’s poignant past awaits, nestled in the heart of Oahu’s countryside.
There are no parking options at Honouliuli National Historic Site as it is not open to the public due to private land ownership and lack of public road access.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Honouliuli National Historic Site, located near Waipahu on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, is a poignant and historically significant destination that immerses visitors in the somber realities of World War II. This 122.5-acre site, once the largest and longest-operating internment camp in Hawaii, now serves as a reflective space to understand the wartime experiences of over 4,000 individuals, including Japanese Americans, German Americans, and prisoners of war.
The site’s secluded location in a deep gulch, known to internees as Hell Valley, amplifies the sense of isolation and unjust imprisonment that characterized life here. The landscape, though stark, is evocative of a tumultuous period in American history. Visitors can explore the remnants of 175 buildings and 14 guard towers, and envision the lives of those who resided here in over 400 tents.
There are no hiking trails or lush flora to speak of, but the historical significance is palpable. The site was discovered by volunteers from the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii in 2002 and was designated a National Historic Site in 2015. For those seeking a deeper connection, the nearby Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii offers an education center with a permanent exhibition on the history of Japanese in Hawaii.
While Honouliuli lacks the traditional allure of a natural park, its historical weight and the stories it tells make it a compelling visit for those interested in immersive cultural and historical experiences. There are no summer concerts or ranger-led tours here, but the site’s silence is a powerful reminder of its past. For travelers seeking to understand the complex tapestry of American history, Honouliuli National Historic Site is an essential stop.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Established year
- 2015
Top 3 Facts about Honouliuli National Historic Site
The internment camp, opened in March 1943, contained 175 buildings, 14 guard towers, and over 400 tents, earning the name Jigoku-Dani or Hell Valley due to its secluded location in a deep gulch that trapped heat and moisture.
This historic site, once a camp, now harbors a diverse array of wildlife. Native plants like kukui and milo dot the landscape, though non-native species dominate due to past disturbances. The skies are filled with up to 22 bird species, including the red-vented bulbul, Japanese White-eye, and Common Waxbill. Ground-dwelling birds face threats from invasive mongoose and feral cats. The area also supports potential habitats for the Hawaiian hoary bat and the Hawaiian short-eared owl. Unique invaders like the giant African snail and pink spotted hawkmoth add to the site’s ecological complexity.
Surrounded by the lush landscapes of O‘ahu, this historic site is set amidst a gulch where the terrain slopes gently towards the ocean. The area is characterized by verdant tropical vegetation and the occasional glimpse of turquoise waters in the distance. Nearby, the Ko‘olau Mountains rise dramatically, their peaks often shrouded in mist, adding a mystical aura to the landscape. The climate is warm and humid, with temperatures rarely dipping below 70°F, making it an ideal setting for those seeking to immerse themselves in both natural beauty and historical significance.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for a memorable afternoon, as the site is currently closed to public access. Visit adjacent exhibits and partner sites during spring, coinciding with the 10th anniversary celebrations in 2025. Prepare for limited amenities and no on-site dining. Anticipate educational tours and historical exhibits off-site.
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen. Bring a light rain jacket and eco-friendly bug repellent. For longer stays, include camping gear and a water bottle. Check the weather forecast before your trip.
Respect Wildlife
Respect native flora by avoiding disturbance and staying on marked trails. Avoid feeding or touching wildlife, and keep a safe distance. Bring water and stay hydrated, especially during hot seasons. Take all trash with you to leave the area pristine. Support local conservation efforts.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Exercise caution and follow all signs and advisories.
Seasons
In spring, with temperatures in the 70s and mild weather, experience the rich history and cultural events. Attend the Onizuka Day of Exploration in April, featuring over 100 hands-on activities and workshops. A must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
Visit in summer for poignant reflections amid Hawaii’s sweltering heat (80s-90s°F). June’s Hono’uli’uli Ahupua’a event highlights native plants and innovative farming, though it may be challenging for sensitive visitors due to dehydration risks. Immersive history and natural significance abound.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (70s-80s°F) and dry weather. October’s National Farmer’s Day celebrations honor local farmers who helped rediscover this historic site, featuring speakers and a movie screening. A poignant reflection on wartime history and civil liberties.
Visit from November to April when temperatures range from 75 to 80°F. Mild winters, occasional rain, and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to immerse in history and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Honouliuli National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest city to Honouliuli National Historic Site is Honolulu, Hawaii. The site is located in the vicinity of Waipahu, but it falls under the administration of Honolulu.
-
Dogs are not allowed because the site is not open to the public due to private land ownership and lack of public access. However, efforts are underway to provide limited access for educational purposes. Currently, there are no facilities or roads for public visitation.
-
There is no public parking available as the site is not open to the public due to private land ownership and lack of road access.
-
The site offers a variety of events, including a speaker series, special tours, book events, pop-up exhibits, film screenings, panel sessions, and musical performances. There are also youth and school initiatives, a statewide art exhibit, and a bird tour with experts from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Events include a panel on March 27 at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i and a virtual event on March 30 featuring archaeologists discussing their excavations.