The builders of the Mauna Lani resort complex have preserved a number of sites of historical and archaeological interest on the resort grounds as Kalahuipuaa Historical Park. In this civilized setting and on a paved path, visitors can easily stroll through a lava field, cross a segment of an old paved Hawaiian footpath, and visit wonderfully scenic tropical fishponds that are still in use. There is a mini-market across from the trailhead parking lot.
The ancient Kalahuipua’a Fishponds lie along the beach just south of the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, partly shaded by a grove of coconut palms and milo (native hardwood) trees. They are among the few still-working fishponds in Hawai’i, and are stocked with awa (Hawaiian milk fish). Water circulates from the ocean through traditional makaha (sluice gates), which allow small fish to enter but keep mature, fattened catch from leaving.
You might notice fish sporadically jumping into the air and slapping down on the water, an exercise that knocks off parasites.
