Planning a trip to Oahu with your family? Alongside pristine beaches, swaying palms, and lush rainforests, the island holds an incredible treasure of ancient cultural significance: Hawaiian petroglyphs. These mysterious rock carvings, found scattered across the Hawaiian Islands, offer a rare and powerful glimpse into the lives of the Native Hawaiian people. Oahu may be more famous for its surf and sun, but for the culturally curious traveler, exploring petroglyphs can transform your vacation into an enriching journey back through time.

What Are Petroglyphs?

Petroglyphs are images carved or pecked into stone, and in Hawaii, they usually appear on lava rock surfaces. Known as kiʻi pōhaku in Hawaiian (literally meaning “stone images”), these carvings are ancient messages left behind by Native Hawaiians, some dating back hundreds—possibly even over a thousand—years. They depict people, animals, tools, canoes, and abstract symbols. While their exact meanings remain partially mysterious, petroglyphs are believed to commemorate important life events like births, battles, and spiritual rituals.

Where to Find Petroglyphs on Oahu

Unlike the Big Island, which is more widely known for petroglyph fields, Oahu’s remnants are subtle but no less significant. The following are the best-known locations to explore petroglyphs on Oahu:

Pūpūkea (North Shore)

Near the fabled surf beaches of the North Shore lies a lesser-known cluster of petroglyphs tucked in the lava rock near Pūpūkea. These include human figures and petroglyphs possibly representing family clans or ceremonies. Most are faint and weather-worn, so time your visit during early morning or late afternoon when shadows make the carvings easier to see.

Nuʻuanu Petroglyphs

The Nuʻuanu area, located just outside downtown Honolulu, hides carvings that were once part of religious ritual sites. These are more difficult to access, often situated on private property or protected lands, but some guided cultural tours include them and offer insights into their history with reverence and accuracy.

Kāneana Cave (Makua Cave)

Located on the west side of Oahu near Makua Beach, Kāneana Cave is a sacred place steeped in mythology and historic significance. While not a petroglyph field in the traditional sense, some etched rock markings are rumored to be in or near the cave. This area holds deep cultural resonance and should be visited with respect.

Respecting Cultural Sites

When visiting petroglyph sites, it’s vital to respect both land and lineage. These carvings are not just historical artifacts—they are expressions of ancestral voices. Do not touch, trace, or walk over them, as these acts can irreparably damage the ancient rock surfaces. Stick to designated paths and follow signage or guidelines provided by the state or any cultural organizations leading tours.

Tips for a Family-Friendly Adventure

• Plan your visits early or late in the day to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Wear sturdy footwear, as reaching some petroglyph sites may require walking on uneven terrain.
• Pack water, snacks, and wear lightweight sun-protective clothing.
• Teach your kids about the cultural significance of what they’re seeing—turn it into a lesson in respect, history, and conservation.

Don’t forget to protect your skin with SPF! When exploring sunny trails or open lava rock areas, a reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen like Coco Botanicals keeps your skin protected without harming the delicate Hawaiian environment.

The Deeper Meaning of Petroglyphs

Beyond their artistry, petroglyphs tell silent stories of the Hawaiian people’s relationships—with each other, with nature, and with the divine. They are a living legacy of storytelling before books and photographs. Seeing them with your own eyes gives you more than insight—it offers connection. Sharing that with your children or loved ones can be one of the most meaningful parts of your trip.

Next time you’re soaking up the sun on Oahu, consider taking a half-day to explore this deeper layer of Hawaiian life. You’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll carry a piece of cultural heritage in your heart, and perhaps a new sense of respect for the land and its people.