Kauhiʻīmakaokalani - The Crouching Lion

The Crouching Lion rock formation stands as a testament to the island's rich tapestry of natural wonders and enduring history, where visitors can connect with both the land and its stories.

Perched above Oʻahu’s lush windward coast, Kauhiʻīmakaokalani (also known as the Crouching Lion) rock formation is more than just a striking natural landmark - it’s a place where geology and Hawaiian history converge. Located near Kahana Bay along the Puʻu Manamana ridge, the formation is often said to resemble a lion poised to leap, though ancient Hawaiians had no concept of lions. Instead, they saw the figure as an ʻīlio ha - or dog - rooted in a rich moʻolelo (story) of love, duty, and transformation.

According to legend, the demigod Kauhiʻīmakaokalani was sent from Kahiki (Tahiti) to serve as a guardian over the area. Bound by his duty, Kauhi remained steadfast at his post, even as time wore on. When the goddess Hiʻiaka, sister of Pele, passed by, Kauhi was captivated by her and longed to join her journey. However, his obligations kept him rooted. Over time, his body grew weary, and he began to slouch, eventually turning to stone in a crouched position, eternally watching over the coastline towards Hiʻiaka’s home island of Hawaiʻi .

The name "Crouching Lion" is believed to have originated from early Western visitors who, unfamiliar with Hawaiian language and history, interpreted the rock formation's silhouette as that of a lion. This likely stemmed from a misinterpretation of "ʻīlio ha," leading to the adoption of the term "lion" to describe the formation .

For those wishing to immerse themselves in this mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, the Crouching Lion hike offers a challenging yet fulfilling adventure. The trail climbs sharply through thick vegetation, culminating in views of Kahana Bay and the adjacent valleys. However, be cautious when attempting this trail as it runs along narrow ridges and features steep drop-offs, making it appropriate only for seasoned hikers. Due to its hazards, the Crouching Lion trail is officially closed and is no longer maintained by the parks department.

If you decide that the trail is too risky, the rock formation can be easily seen from Kamehameha Highway near Kaʻaʻawa