Alekoko (Menehune) Fishpond

Lonely Planet review

Although the view is distant, you won't regret a quick stop to look at the tranquil 39-acre Alekoko (Menehune) Fishpond, an ancient loko wai (freshwater pond), surrounded by a vast area of forest. According to legend, Kaua'i's menehune (little people) formed the fishpond overnight when they built the stone wall running along a bend in Hule'ia River. The stone wall is now covered by a thick green line of mangrove trees.

The pond was in great condition until 1824, when Kaua'i's leader Kaumuali'i died and ali'i (chiefs) from O'ahu and Maui ruled the island as absentee landlords. With no ali'i to feed and maintain the pond, it sorely declined. Later the surrounding area was planted with taro and rice.

Today the US Fish & Wildlife Service owns the lands surrounding the fishpond (238 acres of river basin and steep forested slopes along the north side of Hule'ia River). In 1973 the area was designated the Hule'ia National Wildlife Refuge and now provides breeding and feeding grounds for endemic water birds. The refuge is closed to the public, but kayak tours along Hule'ia River drift through it.

To get to the overlook, drive up Hulemalu Rd for 0.5 miles.