Kamananui valley
wahi pana ʻo kamananui
Nāmakahelu Makaena
Nāmakahelu Makaena
Nāmakahelu Makaena
Nāmakahelu Makaʻena, Kumu Hula, and the last chantresses of Kamananui. Kumu passed in the 1940s, but not before sharing moʻolelo and her experiences of Kamananui with Gertrude MacKinnon Damon. Her ʻike can be seen, heard, and felt throughout the writings and depictions of the valley. While in the valley, you can hear those stories in the wind!
PŌHAKUKALUAHINE
Nāmakahelu Makaena
Nāmakahelu Makaena
In ancient times, kapu were set at certain times, and no sound was allowed - dogs mouths were tied shut, chickens were closed within calabashes. The breaking of kapu has severe consequences. During such a period, an infant cried out while in her grandmother's arms. This ancient rock is said to have intervened. Read more on the trail in Kamananui!
"In the beginning there were no canoes nor men In canoes.It was the time of Po, the sweating time, the time when steam poured from the earth like sweat. There was night which was followed only by night and rain which was followed only by rain. When the sweating time had passed there came a rift in the heavens, and it was then that Papa, the rock, who as the wife of Wakea, gave birth to the boy Mawaelulani..."
- recounted by Nāmakahelu
Conservation, Restoration & Education
Mālama Kamananui
As aloha ʻāina with kuleana to mālama Kamananui, Kamanaiki and the broader Moanalua ahupuaʻa, itʻs not a job we can do alone. Together with our community partners and The State Department of Land and Natural Resources, namely the Division Of Forestry And Wildlife (DOFAW), we work to protect this precious ʻāina and ask that you help us do that.
Join us for Monthly Workdays!
Every 3rd Saturday partners come together for fun, crafts, stories and work! Join us for Moanalua Valley Workdays from 8:50AM - 12:00PM.
Responsible Recreation
Do Your part - Visit with respect!
Kamananui valley is sacred. It is a wahi pana (storied place) with many valuable natural resources, ancient artifacts, and a deep and ancient history. It is one of the last pristine forests in the urban core that is so easily accessible. We invite you to the valley, and we expect you to treat the valley as family, as we do. Take care of the valley, and she will take care of you!
Enjoy the valley safely!
Please take some time to do some research on the valley, and its trails before you go. When youʻre there, take notice of the signs and follow the instruction before, during, and as you leave the valley. We want this beautiful treasure to be protected and healthy for our great, great grandchildren and beyond to enjoy!
Know before you go!
Mākaukau, the Hawaiian word for ready. Be ready before you go to the valley. Make sure you read up, pack the supplies you need, and check for any weather or safety advisories. The Kamananui Valley Trail is relatively easy, but even a sidewalk outside your own home can be dangerous under the right circumstances. Be safe, be prepared, be ready to have fun!