Kalahuipuaʻa Trail and Fishponds Loop

At Kalahuipuaʻa Historic Park, an easy 1.5-mile loop connects ancient lava formations, carved petroglyphs, and some of the most storied fishponds in Hawaii. It is one of the most rewarding walks within the resort, and one of the least crowded.

The Trail

Easy, Scenic, and Rich with History

The loop is approximately 1.5 miles and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a natural choice for a morning outing or a late afternoon walk before dinner. Informative panels are placed throughout the trail, offering context on the lava tubes, ancient Hawaiian woodworking tools, and the fishpond systems you will pass along the way.

Remnants of ancient Hawaiian structures and petroglyphs carved into lava rock appear at several points on the loop. The lava tube shelter near the start of the trail is worth pausing at, a cave-like formation that offers a tangible connection to how this land was used for centuries.

Kalahuipuaʻa Trail and Fishponds Loop at Mauna Lani Historic Park

Kalahuipuaʻa Historic Park · Mauna Lani Resort

Trail Feature

The Lava Flow

The trail begins across an ancient lava field. Interpretive panels explain the geology of the lava tubes and the role lava played in shaping both the landscape and early Hawaiian culture. The lava tube shelter is a natural stopping point on the way out.

Trail Highlight

The Fishponds

These ancient aquaculture systems were designed to trap and raise fish, providing a reliable food supply for the local community. Each pond has its own design and history. Many are actively being restored, offering a living glimpse into traditional Hawaiian practice.

Before You Go

A Few Things Worth Knowing

Best Time to Visit Early morning or late afternoon. The trail is exposed in places and the midday sun on lava rock can be intense.
What to Bring Comfortable walking shoes and water. The terrain is uneven in sections and the loop takes roughly 45 minutes at an easy pace.
Respect the Sites The petroglyphs and fishponds are irreplaceable cultural sites. Stay on the marked trail and observe without touching.
Finish at the Beach Club The trail ends near the Mauna Lani Beach Club, where Abita guests have complimentary access. A swim after the walk is a natural close to the outing.

Included with Every Abita Stay

Beach Club access is complimentary for all Abita guests, making it easy to combine the fishponds loop with a beach afternoon in a single outing. Nohea guests can use the complimentary bicycles to reach both the trail and the Beach Club without a car.

An hour among the fishponds leaves you with a different sense of the land you are standing on. That is worth the walk.

The Abita Standard

Stay Within Walking Distance of It All

Every Abita property is located within Mauna Lani Resort, placing the Kalahuipuaʻa Trail, the Beach Club, and the full cultural and natural landscape of the Kohala Coast within easy reach from the moment you arrive.

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