He Kuleana

He Kuleana - A Responsibility

To visit Kaloko-Honokōhau is to be welcomed into a vibrant ecosystem, home to some of Hawaiʻi's most cherished and vulnerable creatures. The experience of seeing them in their natural habitat is a gift, and with that gift comes kuleana—a uniquely Hawaiian concept that means both a privilege and a responsibility. Our kuleana here is to act as stewards, to practice mālama ʻāina, and to ensure this sanctuary endures for generations to come.

The Honu: An Ancient Guardian

Of all the wildlife here, none captures the heart quite like the honu, the Hawaiian green sea turtle. You will often see them in the calm waters near the ʻAiʻōpio fishtrap, their heads popping up for a breath, or hauled out on the warm sand and rocks to rest. But when you see a honu, you are seeing more than just a reptile. In our culture, the honu is a powerful symbol of wisdom, endurance, and good luck. They are revered as ʻaumakua, guardian spirits who are navigators of both the ocean and the spiritual realm.

Moʻolelo tell of honu like Kauila, a mythical turtle who could transform into a human girl to watch over the children playing on the shore of the Big Island. This protective, nurturing spirit is what the honu represents. Our responsibility to them is immense. These beautiful animals are a threatened species, protected by both state and federal law. Their populations, once decimated by overharvesting, have made a remarkable comeback since they were protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1978.

When you encounter a honu, you are in the presence of an ʻaumakua. To give it space is not just a rule—it is an act of deep respect. Please stay at least 20 feet away on land and 50 yards in the water. Stress can be incredibly harmful, even fatal, to a turtle. Let them rest. Let them feed. Your quiet, distant observation is the greatest gift you can give them. This is our shared kuleana.