Keomuku

The Cursed Plantation

State: Hawaii County: Maui County Founded: 1899 Abandoned: 1901 Peak Population: 2,000

Keomuku was a short-lived sugar plantation town on Lanai. According to legend, the desecration of a nearby heiau for building materials brought a curse. The wells turned brackish, workers died from disease, and the plantation failed in just two years. The wooden church (Ka Lanakila) and stone remains can still be visited.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time: Year-round

Difficulty: Moderate (4WD, rough road)

Time Needed: Half day

Quick Facts

  • Died after heiau desecration (legend)
  • Ka Lanakila church still stands
  • Only lasted 2 years

Location

Address: Keomuku Rd, Lanai, HI

Coordinates: 20.85, -156.8667