Lahaina in Maui County, Hawaii — Hawaiian Island Archipelago (Pacific Ocean)
Hauola Stone (Pohaku O Hauola)
Ala Hele Mo'olelo O Lahaina Lahaina Historic Trail
Photographed by Jimmy Emerson, Oct 2016
1. Hauola Stone (Pohaku O Hauola) Marker
Look down over the seawall to the boulders below, and you will notice an unusually shaped stone, which remarkably resembles a chair with a spacious seat and short angular back. Look closely, and you will see that the seat portion is worn down into a hollow.
As far back as the 14th and 15th centuries, the ancient Hawaiians made use of this special stone, which they named "Hauola" (translated loosely to mean extending life and health). In those times, it was used as a birthing stone for ali'i (royalty). When a chiefess was ready to give birth, her attendants would help her into the stone chair, assist in delivering her child, and witness the birth.
In more recent times, it is believed that this stone was useful for healing purposes as it is located in an area where both fresh and salt water mix, such waters being known for healing powers. Ailing people would sit in the seat with the waves washing over them, while offering ceremonial prayers to regain health.
Erected by Lahaina Historic Trail.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Asian Americans
this page online
Location. 20° 52.358′ N, 156° 40.728′ W. Marker has been reported damaged. Marker is in Lahaina, Hawaii, in Maui County. It can be reached from the intersection of Wharf Street and Papelekane Street, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 680 Hotel St, Lahaina HI 96761, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Lahaina and West Maui. Globally, it is in North America, Polynesia, the Pacific Ocean, North Pacific, the Pacific Rim, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 4 miles of this location, measured as the crow flies: Lahaina Court and Custom House (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Seamen's House & Hospital (approx. 0.6 miles away); The Porter Anchor (approx. 0.6 miles away); An Island Without Ghosts (approx. 2.3 miles away); Grinding Stones, Hoana (approx. 2.7 miles away); Plantation Pioneers at Rest (approx. 2.7 miles away); Koko O Na Moku Race Track
Photographed by Jimmy Emerson, Oct 2016
2. Hauola Stone (Pohaku O Hauola)
More about this marker. Marker was likely lost during the August 8-9, 2023 wildfires that destroyed the town.
Credits. This page was last revised on December 16, 2025. It was originally submitted on December 13, 2025, by Jimmy Emerson of Dalton, Georgia. This page has been viewed 89 times since then and 64 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 13, 2025, by Jimmy Emerson of Dalton, Georgia. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A wide view photo of the marker and its surroundings showing its location in context. • Can you help?
