Honopū: Conch bay

Hono-pū, an ahupua‘a of Nāpali, lying between Kalalau and Nu‘alolo, contains many house sites and taro terraces fed by an extensive irrigation system.

The ahupua‘a was said to have produced excellent olonā (sennit) ropes. American whaling captains preferred olonā ropes to the cordage that was made back in New England. It was stronger and lasted longer.

Ua nīkiāi ‘ia i ke olonā o Honopū.

Tied fast with the olonā cord of Honopū.

Said of a situation that is made fast.

Honopū was said to produce excellent olonā in ancient days. (Pukui 2833)

The pū, which gives the valley its name, is a triton shell with its pointed tip removed that was used trumpet-like to warn everyone that a sacred chief was approaching.

The kahuna Hulumanienie brought Laieikawai, the four Maile sisters, and Kahalaomapuana to live in Honopū with him after Laieikawai had been tricked into a marriage she did not want and which lost her the special attributes that had been hers from birth. (Haleole, Legend of Laieikawai)