Moli'i and 'Apua Fishpond
Moli'i and 'Apua Fishponds are two historic Hawaiian aquaculture sites located on O'ahu's scenic windward coast. Moli'i Fishpond spans 125 acres and remains operational today, managed by Kualoa Ranch. 'Apua Fishpond, smaller and overgrown, lies nearby at Kualoa Regional Park. Both ponds reflect ancient Hawaiian engineering, sustainability, and legend - believed to have been built by the mythical Menehune in a single night.
Moli'i and 'Apua Fishponds, Oahu
Moli'i Fishpond is one of the largest fishponds in all of Hawaii, encompassing 125 acres and ranging in depth from 4 to 30 feet (1-9m). Located on Oahu's windward (east) coast, the fishpond is between 600 to 960 years old.
In 1850, Dr. Gerritt P. Judd bought the land division of Kualoa, which includes the fishpond, from King Kamehameha III. Today, the Morgan family, who are Judd's descendents, still own the property and manage it as Kualoa Ranch. Moli'i Fishpond is one of the few early royal fishponds in Hawaii that remain operational up until today. Moi (threadfish), 'ama'ama (mullet) and awa (milkfish) are raised in it.
To see the fishpond from up-close, you can take a guided tour. Kualoa Ranch offers a garden and fishpond tour, as well as an ocean voyaging tour, where they ferry visitors across the fishpond to Secret Island (the seaward side of Moli'i Fishpond).
Neighboring ‘Apua Fishpond (view panorama) × (located to the east of Moli'i) is much smaller. It can easily be reached from Kualoa Regional Park by following the beach park road all the way to the end. The fishpond is located behind a low stone wall and surrounded by bushes and trees. ‘Apua Fishpond fell into disuse in the early 20th century.
Key Features of Moli'i and 'Apua Fishponds
- Historic Hawaiian aquaculture: Moli'i Fishpond is one of Hawaii's largest and oldest operational fishponds, dating back 600–960 years.
- Ancient engineering: Both ponds were built using lava rock walls and sluice gates to raise fish sustainably in brackish water.
- Legends of the Menehune: Hawaiian myth claims the fishponds were constructed overnight by the Menehune, a mythical race of master builders.
- Scenic and cultural tours: Visitors can tour Moli'i Fishpond by canoe or boat through Kualoa Ranch's eco-adventure offerings.
- 'Apua Fishpond remnant: Located at the end of the road in Kualoa Regional Park, 'Apua is visible but no longer in use.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of fish are raised in Moli'i Fishpond?
Traditionally raised fish include moi (threadfish), 'ama'ama (mullet), and awa (milkfish), using sustainable methods practiced for centuries.
Can I visit Moli'i Fishpond?
Yes. Kualoa Ranch offers guided tours by boat and canoe across the fishpond, including visits to Secret Island and cultural sites.
What is the significance of 'Apua Fishpond?
'Apua is a smaller, historic fishpond located next to Kualoa Regional Park. Though not in use, it reflects the ancient methods of Hawaiian aquaculture.
Who built the fishponds?
According to Hawaiian legend, the Menehune - mythical stone builders - constructed the fishponds in one night using their advanced engineering skills.
Where are the fishponds located?
They're on O'ahu's windward coast in Kane'ohe Bay near Kualoa Ranch and Kualoa Regional Park, about 45 minutes from Honolulu.