Coconut Island (Hawaii Island) facts for kids
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Nickname: Coconut Island
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View of Mokuola from Lili'uokalani Park
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 Moku Ola
Location in Hawaii
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| Geography | |
| Location | Hilo Bay |
| Coordinates | 19°43′46″N 155°4′7″W / 19.72944°N 155.06861°W |
| Archipelago | Hawaiian Islands |
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United States
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Coconut Island, also known as Moku Ola, is a small and special island. It sits in Hilo Bay, right off the coast of Hilo on the island of Hawaii. You can find it near Lili'uokalani Park and Gardens.
This little island is a popular park. A footbridge connects it to the main land, making it easy to visit. On the island, you'll find a big grassy area, perfect for playing or relaxing. There are also picnic spots, restrooms, and a few small sandy beaches. A fun activity for visitors is jumping off a tower into the clear waters of Hilo Bay.
What Does Moku Ola Mean?
The name Moku Ola comes from the Hawaiian language. It means "healing island" or "island of life." The word Moku means "island," and ola means "life." Long ago, people believed this island had special healing powers. It was once home to an ancient temple built for healing.
A Place of Safety and Legend
Moku Ola is located off Banyan Drive. Many old stories and legends are connected to this island. One legend says that if someone was sick, swimming around Moku Ola three times would make them feel better.
In ancient Hawaii, Moku Ola was a pu'uhonua. This was a special "place of refuge" or safety. If people were in trouble, they could go to a pu'uhonua to find protection and a fresh start. It was a place where people could be safe from harm.
Hawaiians also considered certain things, like a child's piko (umbilical cord), to be very sacred. They believed the piko connected a child to their mother and their family history.
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