Menehune (Alekoko) Fishpond
The Menehune (Alekoko) Fishpond is a legendary aquaculture site on Kauai, believed to have been constructed in a single night by the mythical menehune. With a 900-foot lava rock wall bordering Hulei'a Stream, this 1,000-year-old fishpond showcases ancient Hawaiian ingenuity. Though located on private land and no longer in use, it can be admired from a scenic lookout on Hulemalu Road, just minutes from Lihue. It's a must-see for travelers interested in Hawaiian history, mythology, and engineering marvels.
Menehune (Alekoko) Fishpond, Kauai
This fishpond is said to have been built in just one night by the menehune, the mythical little people of Kauai. The menehune were master craftsmen who could accomplish amazing deeds in very little time. They used to live in the island's forests and hid from humans, so during one night they came out and built the fishpond. They did this by lining up from the village of Makaweli, 25 miles (40 km) away, passing stones hand-by-hand.
The fishpond is located next to the Hulei'a Stream. A lava rock wall between the pond and the stream is 900 feet (274 m) long and 5 feet (1.5 m) high, which is amazing considering the fact that archaeologists estimate that the fishpond is around 1,000 years old. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
In ancient Hawaii, fishponds like this one were built to catch fish. The Alekoko Fishpond illustrates this type of ancient Hawaiian aquaculture very well. It is located just a short drive from downtown Lihu'e. Today, the fishpond is no longer in use. It is situated on private land, but there is a lookout point on Hulemalu Road.
Key Features of the Menehune Fishpond
- Legendary origin: Said to have been built overnight by the menehune, Kauai's mythical master builders
- Ancient engineering: Features a 900-foot lava rock wall between the pond and Hulei'a Stream
- Historic status: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973
- Scenic viewpoint: Can be viewed from a public lookout on Hulemalu Road
- Hawaiian aquaculture: Exemplifies traditional fish-trapping systems used for centuries
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Menehune Fishpond located?
The fishpond is just outside Lihue on Kauai's east side, with a viewpoint on Hulemalu Road.
How old is the fishpond?
It is believed to be around 1,000 years old and was officially recognized as a historic site in 1973.
What was it used for?
It served as a fish-trapping system using a rock wall and tides to catch and harvest fish.
Can I visit the fishpond directly?
The fishpond is on private land and not open to public access, but you can view it from a designated lookout nearby.