Don’t bypass the Visitors Center at the park. It offers educational displays along with audiovisual presentations to explain the site’s significance that make it worth the visit. 

If you happen to be visiting the Heiau in the winter or spring (April-May is optimal) you may be fortunate enough to spot some migrating humpback whales from the open vantage point the park allows. The area is prime for whale-watching, a fact which helps explain the Heiau’s name. 

The hike from the Visitor Center to the other Heiau in the park, Mailekine, runs to about one mile round trip. The trail does get a little steep in a few places but tennis shoes should do fine, just leave your sandals at home or in the car. Along the trail numerous exhibits offer insight into cultural features of traditional Hawaiian life. The Heiau makes a good day trip from Kailua-Kona, especially when combined with the Kamehameha compound there. 

Be warned that unlike Oahu, the Big Island of Hawaii offers little to nothing in terms of public transportation. You’ll have to make it here by rental car, taxi, or tour bus. Of course you may want to get the real feel of traditional life and make the walk. It shouldn’t take you more than 12 hours (one way).