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Lanikai Beach vs Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Both are highly recommended by writers. On balance, Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park scores slightly better than Lanikai Beach. Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is ranked #2 in Hawaii with positive reviews from 6 sources such as Fodor's, Lonely Planet and Frommer's.

Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach
8 / 10
Mokulua Drive, Kailua, Oahu, HI 96734
From $0 /night
Fodor's Fodor's
"Peaceful jade green waters, powder-soft white sand, families and dogs frolicking mindlessly, offshore islands in the distance. It's an ideal spot." Full review
i
Be sure not to park in the marked bike/jogging lane.
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
3 Stars
"Picture paradise: a white, sandy beach fringed with palm trees and fragrant tropical plants, licked by crystal-clear, aqua-blue surf." Full review
U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report
3.0
"Lanikai is more tranquil, offering relatively calm waters and a mile of white sands. This family-friendly beach is also within view of the Mokulua Islands, a haven for kayaking and surfing." Full review
Frommer's Frommer's
"This is one of the best places on Oahu to greet the sunrise. Watch the sky slowly move from pitch black to wisps of gray to burnt orange as the sun rises over the two tiny offshore islands of Mokulua." Full review
Independent Independent
"The crystal waters of Lanikai Beach sparkle under water sports enthusiasts on kayaks and paddleboards. If they’re lucky, a Hawaiian green sea turtle may pop its head out to say hello"
Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
9 / 10
P.O. Box 129, Honaunau, Island of Hawaii, HI 96726
From $0 /night
Fodor's Fodor's
"This 420-acre National Historical Park houses the best preserved puuhonua (place of refuge) in the state." Full review
i
An aura of ancient sacredness and serenity still embues the place.
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"This awesome park is an ancient place of refuge – or puʻuhonua, a sanctuary where kapu (taboo)-breakers could have their lives spared."
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"The huge, centuries-old temples... lie in ruins at this ancient historical site, sacred to native Hawaiians." Full review
i
The surrounding Kealakekua Bay with its cliffs and spinner dolphins makes for a gorgeous backdrop.
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"This awesome park is an ancient place of refuge – or puʻuhonua, a sanctuary where kapu (taboo)-breakers could have their lives spared." Full review
Where Where
"This 180-acre national historic park was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers." Full review
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