What is Ka’ōhao?
Ka’ōhao is the actual name of the area between Kailua Beach and Waimanalo Beach. It is commonly, but incorrectly, called “Lanikai”.
Ka’ōhao means “the tying” and takes its name from the tying of two women by Hāuna, kahu to high chief Lonoikamakahiki of Hawai‘i Island, after the women were beaten at a game of kōnane. The women were led to Hāuna’s canoes, released, and — against all expectation — rewarded with the feather wealth that the wa‘a contained. That place was named Ka’ōhao in commemoration of the incident. (The complete story is told in Fornander’s Collection