Pahonu Pond
Pahonu Pond is an ancient Hawaiian turtle enclosure located just south of Kaiona Beach Park on O'ahu's windward coast. Built with lava rock walls, this sacred site once held live sea turtles that were reserved for consumption by the ali'i (Hawaiian chiefs). Today, remnants of the pond are still visible at low tide, offering a glimpse into traditional aquaculture and the kapu system of old Hawai'i.
Pahonu Pond, Oahu
Located just south of Kaiona Beach Park, Pahonu Pond is an ancient Hawaiian stone enclosure surrounded a turtle pond where fishermen put turtles that were to be consumed by the ali'i (Hawaiian chiefs and royalty). In the old Hawaii, only ali'i were allowed to eat turtle meat. It was kapu (taboo) for a commoner to eat this delicacy, and breaking this kapu was punishable by death.
The pond's original size is believed to have measured 500 feet (152 m) in length and 60 feet (18 m) in width. The rocks are partially submerged at high tide. The offshore island that one can see from here is Rabbit Island (also known as Manana Island). The island was used as a burial site in the past and two fishing shrines were located there as well. Today, it is a seabird sanctuary.
Key Features of Pahonu Pond
- Ancient turtle pond: Stone-walled enclosure once used to keep live honu (sea turtles) for the ali'i's consumption.
- Kapu system site: Only Hawaiian royalty were allowed to eat turtle meat; it was taboo for commoners and punishable by death.
- Visible at low tide: The stone wall is partially submerged and best seen during low tide conditions.
- Nearby sacred landmarks: Views of Rabbit Island (Manana), a former burial site and location of ancient fishing shrines.
- Easy access location: Just a 2-minute walk south of Kaiona Beach Park along Waimanalo's scenic shoreline.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was Pahonu Pond used for?
Pahonu was a stone turtle enclosure where Hawaiian fishermen kept live turtles, which were reserved as food for the ali'i (chiefs).
Why couldn't commoners eat turtle meat?
Under the ancient kapu system, turtle meat was a sacred food reserved only for Hawaiian royalty. Violating this taboo could result in death.
When is the best time to visit Pahonu Pond?
Visit at low tide to clearly see the lava rock walls that form the enclosure. At high tide, the stones may be submerged.
Where is Pahonu Pond located?
It's just south of Kaiona Beach Park in Waimanalo. Walk a few minutes south along the shoreline from the beach park to reach it.
What is the island seen offshore from here?
The offshore island is Rabbit Island (Manana), historically used as a burial site and for two traditional fishing shrines. Today, it is a seabird sanctuary.