Summary
Hawaii is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, favorable climate, vibrant Polynesian culture, and distinctive traditions. This destination appeals to romantic couples, outdoor aficionados, and surfers alike, providing something for everyone. Hawaii is also celebrated for its diverse topography, plant life, and wildlife, hosting several protected regions, including Haleakalā National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Ultimately, Hawaii stands out as a remarkable vacation destination, a sentiment shared by over 8 million annual visitors. While many are drawn to its beaches, ocean activities, and mountainous landscapes, some also seek to explore the islands’ more secluded attractions, such as lakes. Although lakes in Hawaii are relatively few and often overlooked, numerous hidden gems are worth a visit if you’re exploring the islands. Below is an overview of the 15 most notable lakes in Hawaii.
1. Lake Waiau; Hawaii
Lake Waiau is situated on the dormant Mauna Kea volcano with an elevation of 3,970 meters above sea level, making it the highest lake in Hawaii and among the highest in the United States.
This heart-shaped lake resides within the cinder cone of the volcano and is considered sacred by local inhabitants, said to be untainted by direct contact with the ground.
Access to the lake is via a trail branching from Saddle Road. While it is a short trek, it may pose challenges for some due to the reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes.
2. Halulu Lake; Niʻihau
As the largest natural lake in Hawaii, Halulu Lake covers an area of 74 hectares, though it can diminish during dry seasons and expand to as much as 150 hectares when it rains.
This picturesque freshwater lake is encircled by sand and vegetation, serving as a habitat for various native bird species, such as the Hawaiian stilt, Hawaiian coot, and Hawaiian duck.
Named after a significant Hawaiian chief, there is also a legend that the lake’s name derives from the mythical halulu bird, known for its malevolence.
3. Hālaliʻi Lake; Niʻihau
Hālaliʻi Lake borders Halulu Lake in the southern central area of Niʻihau Island, making it the largest lake in Hawaii at 340 hectares.
Tradition holds that the lake is named after a prominent Hawaiian chief or the trickster deity Hālaliʻi from Oʻahu. The shoreline is adorned with Makaloa sedge, traditionally used to create Makaloa mats.
This lake serves primarily for aquaculture rather than recreational purposes, providing fish for markets on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu.
4. Violet Lake; Maui
Violet Lake is nestled in the West Maui Mountains at an elevation of 1,530 meters, enveloped by montane rainforest, making it exceptionally picturesque.
This lake’s unique ecosystem is home to numerous rare species, including endemic flora such as the dwarfed ʻōhiʻa lehua tree, Hawaiian lobelioids, and Maui violet.
Moreover, Violet Lake holds cultural significance in Hawaiian traditions, regarded as sacred and thought to be a convergence point between heaven and earth, as well as the dwelling of the goddess Kihawahine.
5. Ka Loko Reservoir; Kauai
This stunning reservoir was constructed using an earthen dam, with water flowing from it to the Waiakalua Reservoir and onwards to the Pacific Ocean.
Ka Loko Reservoir gained notoriety due to a dam failure in 2006, leading to devastating floods which impacted local communities in Kilauea.
Nevertheless, with Moloaa Forest Reserve as a scenic backdrop, the reservoir remains visually striking.
6. Kahaluʻu Fishpond; Oʻahu
This historic fishpond is situated at Kāneʻohe Bay on Oʻahu, being one of only four remaining fishponds in Hawaii, designated as a site on the US National Register of Historic Places.
The fishpond area is privately owned and often serves as a wedding venue, featuring a chapel, pavilion, and garden for lease.
Covering 70 hectares, the pond is distinguished by its semi-circular seawall, measuring 370 meters, and a beautiful mangrove forest. Kahaluʻu Fishpond is an excellent choice for those seeking a picturesque wedding location.
7. Nu’uanu Reservoir; O‘ahu
This secluded reservoir, constructed in 1910, has remained out of operation for many years. While access is limited, it can be glimpsed while hiking to Lulumahu Falls.
Located in the vibrant Nuʻuanu Valley, this reservoir is surrounded by dense bamboo forests and lush jungles, featuring an unused tower and a rusted bridge, yet devoid of human presence.
Views of the reservoir can additionally be enjoyed from the Pali Highway, which borders the northern edge of the lake.
8. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden Lake; Oʻahu
This lake, which lacks an official designation, is a lovely freshwater body located within the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden.
Established in 1982 for flood control, this garden is accessible to the public daily, except on Christmas and New Year’s Day, and entry is free.
The garden features diverse plants from around the globe, including species from Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Melanesia, the Philippines, Polynesia, and, of course, Hawaii. The 13-hectare lake can be accessed via the Lake Trail at the northern edge of the botanical gardens.
9. Wahiawa Reservoir; O’ahu
This reservoir is one of the few in Hawaii that allows fishing, though it’s limited to catch and release. Accordingly, for fishing enthusiasts, Wahiawa Reservoir is a prime location in the state.
The reservoir hosts species such as bass, tilapia, and catfish, among others. Notably, boating is restricted to fishing activities only.
Commonly referred to as Wilson Lake, Wahiawa Reservoir is situated in the township of Wahiawa, which occupies three sides of the lake. Shore fishing is available in certain areas, and a boat ramp can be found at the Wahiawa State Freshwater Fishing Park.
10. Waiākea Pond; Hawaii
Waiākea Pond is located in Hilo Bay, along the eastern coast of Hawaii Island. The pond is enveloped by Wailoa River State Park, which includes pavilions, picnic areas, and picturesque pathways.
Activities such as spinning, fly fishing, and bait casting are permitted in the pond; however, obtaining a fishing license from Hawaii Fish & Wildlife is necessary.
The Wailoa Center, located on the east side of the pond, hosts two art galleries. A visit to Wailoa River State Park promises to be an enriching experience.
11. Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary; Maui
Though technically not a lake, the Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary is a magnificent wetland area famous for its avian populations. The sanctuary supports a variety of bird species, including both the endangered Hawaiian coot and Hawaiian stilt.
This protected region is designated as a U.S. National Natural Landmark, encompassing 50 hectares, making it a sanctuary ideal for birdwatching and nature appreciation.
Additionally, the Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary is home to other birds including the belted kingfisher, grey-tailed tattler, and black-tailed godwit.
12. Huilua Fishpond; Oʻahu
This ancient fishpond is one of the few remaining of its kind in Hawaii, recognized as a U.S. National Historic Landmark and included in the National Register of Historic Places.
Constructed between 400 and 600 years ago, Huilua Fishpond is situated in Kahana Bay and can be accessed via a nearby beach.
This pond originally featured a 150-meter-high seawall designed to prevent larger fish from escaping; however, much of the structure has been lost due to tsunami damage, though restoration efforts are underway.
13. Waita Reservoir; Kauai
Though the Waita Reservoir is located on private property, it can be accessed through organized private fishing excursions. This venue is well-regarded for bass fishing.
The reservoir includes a dock for boats, many of which are operated by charter fishing services, providing an exclusive fishing experience, as boat traffic is typically minimal.
Situated just east of Kōloa, it frequently hosts special activities such as fishing contests, boat races, and corporate gatherings.
14. Kualapuʻu Reservoir; Molokai
This diminutive reservoir can be found in the town of Kualapuʻu on Molokai Island, with the name meaning ‘hill overturned’, as it lies at the base of the Kualapuʻu cinder cone.
The reservoir’s surroundings are home to Coffees of Hawaii, known for its production of Molokai coffee. While the freshwater body does not facilitate recreational activities, it offers picturesque scenery for visitors passing through the area.
15. Keehi Lagoon; Oʻahu
Although classified as a lagoon rather than a traditional lake, Keehi Lagoon is located in Honolulu at the southern end of Oʻahu. It features an urban beach and park that caters to canoeing and boating activities.
While swimming is not permitted, the lagoon serves as a wonderful location to spend time with family, engaging in sports such as baseball, football, cricket, or tennis.
Being adjacent to the airport allows visitors to enjoy views of planes taking off and landing while having a picnic lunch.
