South Coast

As many as 60 ancient fish ponds dotted the shallow southern coast of Molokia. Most of these ponds are thought to date back to the 13th Century. They are a tribute to sophisticated aquaculture.

The semi-circular walls of the ponds were made from lava boulders and coral which would keep the fish inside while allowing the sea water to ebb in and out. The fish from these ponds were only eaten by the royal Hawaiian chiefs.

Two of these ponds have been made into national, historical landmarks. Keawanui covers almost 55 acres and Ualapue is over 22 acres. Several more of these ponds are still used today by the local residents.

Another site, Kakahaia, has been made into a wetland bird sanctuary with a 15 acre freshwater pond and 42 acres of surrounding land.

This was once the City of Refuge known as Kawela. In ancient times a criminal could go here and be forgiven of his crime if he reached the site before he was caught.