Highway 440, South Lanai

The real name for this unusual structure atop Pu'u Pehe Rock is Kupapau Puupehe meaning "owl trap hill". The legend surrounding the tomb-like structure, even though romantic, has no archeological foundation. The structure appears to be a possible bird heaiu built by ancient Hawaiians

The rock structure is a platform 6 feet wide, 21 feet long, and 3 feet high. On top of the platform and slightly north of center, is a stone 8 inches square and about 18 inches high set in an upright position. Archeologists found no human remains anywhere on top of the rock but many bird bones, mainly terns, and egg shells. They surmise the platform was a shrine used by bird hunters during ancient times.

Useful Information:

DIRECTIONS:
Take Highway 440 south from Lanai City approximately 13 miles. Follow the signs to the Hulopo'e Beach Park. Take the trail to the left of the beach to the overlook.