He'eia Fishpond
He'eia Fishpond is a large, traditional Hawaiian fishpond located on the windward coast of Oahu at Kane'ohe Bay. Encompassing 88 acres and surrounded by a 5,000-foot stone wall, it is one of the few restored and functioning fishponds remaining in Hawaii. Visitors can view this cultural treasure from He'eia State Park and learn about its importance in sustainable aquaculture practices.
He'eia Fishpond, Oahu
He'eia Fishpond (view panorama) × is located at Kane'ohe Bay on Oahu's windward coast. It encompasses 88 acres and its walls are about 5,000 feet (1,524 m) long. It is one of the few fishponds left on Oahu. It is not known when it was built. Fishponds in the old Hawaii were built to maintain a ready supply of live fish. He'eia Fishpond can be seen from He'eia State Park.
Key Features of He'eia Fishpond
- Traditional Hawaiian fishpond: He'eia Fishpond is a loko i'a kuapa, a walled-style fishpond used for sustainable aquaculture by early Hawaiians.
- 88 acres in size: One of the largest intact fishponds in the state, with surrounding walls stretching approximately 5,000 feet.
- Located at Kane'ohe Bay: Offers beautiful views of the Ko'olau Mountains and bay, visible from nearby He'eia State Park.
- Cultural preservation site: Managed by nonprofit organization Paepae o He'eia, focused on education, restoration, and community involvement.
- Accessible via guided tours: While not always open for public access, guided cultural tours and volunteer events are available by appointment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is He'eia Fishpond used for?
He'eia Fishpond was historically used to raise and harvest fish for local consumption using sustainable aquaculture practices. Today, it serves as an educational and cultural preservation site.
Where is He'eia Fishpond located?
It is located in Kane'ohe on Oahu's windward coast, adjacent to He'eia State Park at 830 Kamehameha Highway.
Can I visit He'eia Fishpond?
The fishpond is accessible to the public through scheduled educational programs, cultural tours, and volunteer days organized by Paepae o He'eia.
Can you see the fishpond without entering?
Yes, scenic views of the fishpond are available from He'eia State Park, which is open to the public daily.
Why is He'eia Fishpond significant?
It represents one of the last functioning traditional Hawaiian fishponds on Oahu and plays an important role in cultural preservation and environmental education.