Back to Oahu Driving History TourStop 14 of 25
Mauna Lahilahi
Mauna Lahilahi is a small yet culturally significant mountain on Oahu's leeward coast, just south of Makaha. Meaning “thin mountain” in Hawaiian, it is considered sacred and linked to ancient deities such as Kane and Ai'ai. The site features petroglyphs, ancient shrines, and astronomical alignment, and was used as a lookout point in old Hawaii. Its proximity to Shark Island and sweeping coastal views add to its natural and spiritual appeal.
Written by historians, never AIResearched & written by Marc Striegel
In the app, this story plays on its own as you reach this spot. This page is the preview.
See the full tourThe story
Mauna Lahilahi
Mauna Lahilahi, Oahu
Mauna Lahilahi is a prominent geographic feature on Oahu's leeward (west) coast, located just south of Makaha on an 11,145-acre peninsula. In the Hawaiian language, lahilahi means “thin mountain.” It is believed that this mountain was sacred to Kane, the Hawaiian god of procreation and the father of all living creatures. He is one of the four leading gods for the Hawaiians (the other three are Ku, Lono and Kanaloa). It is also believed that another god named Ai'ai marked the area around Mauna Lahilahi as a prime fishing location.
Several petroglyphs have been carved at the mountain's eastern end, mainly human and dog figures. The mountain is also home to a few small stone platforms, shrines and a possible heiau (ancient temple) site, as well as burial sites.
In the old Hawaii, Mauna Lahilahi served as a lookout point. Its 230-foot (70 m) summit gives a good overview of the western shoreline and any approaching boats. It is also believed that the mountain’s peak has astronomical significance, mainly in recognition of the summer solstice.
Located just offshore is Shark Island, a large rock, said to be the mother of the surrounding smaller rocks, which are the children.
On the route
Where it sits
In the app, this stop triggers as you arrive.
You are here
Almost here
Hear it where it happened.
The History Cake app is in the final stretch. Leave your email and we'll send one note when this story can play for you on the spot.
Be first in line
One email at launch. No worries, no spam.