Experiencing Alekoko Today

Experiencing Alekoko Today: Two Perfect Perspectives

For visitors to Kauai, experiencing Alekoko offers a glimpse into our island's deep past. Two main ways let you see the fishpond, each offering distinct perspectives.

Comparing Your Options

The View from Above: Alekoko Scenic Overlook

The most common way to see the fishpond is from the official scenic overlook, a small pull-out on Hulemalu Road offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Getting There from Līhuʻe/Nawiliwili Harbor

Take Nawiliwili Road (Route 58) south. About 0.3 miles past the main harbor entrance, turn left onto Niumalu Road. Follow it for about 0.6 miles through a residential area, then take a slight right onto Hulemalu Road and continue uphill for another 0.6 miles. The overlook will be a small pull-out on your right.

Getting There from Poʻipū

Head north and take HI-50 E/Kaumualiʻi Highway toward Līhuʻe. Turn right onto Kipu Road, which becomes Aakukui Road, then take a slight left onto the new Hulemalu Road. The overlook will be on your right in about 3.2 miles.

What to Expect

The viewpoint is simple—a roadside pull-off with informational signs explaining the legend and history. The view, however, is spectacular. You can see the entire arc of the fishpond, the winding Hulēʻia River, and the majestic, green Hauʻpū Ridge backdrop.

The View from Water: The Ultimate Perspective

To truly appreciate the ancient kuapā's scale and understand the pond's relationship with the river, you must get on the water. Paddling a kayak or SUP on the Hulēʻia River is the most intimate and rewarding way to experience Alekoko. From this angle, you glide past the ancient wall and through the heart of the Huleʻia National Wildlife Refuge, seeing the ecosystem as the birds do.

Recommended Experience: Outfitters Kauai

For a professional experience, I always recommend Outfitters Kauai. Their "Hidden Valley Falls Kayak Adventure" is the premier tour on the Hulēʻia River, perfectly suited for this location.

Tour Details

This adventure is an easy paddle perfect for families and adventurers of all skill levels. It includes a two-mile downwind paddle on the gentle river, passing the fishpond and through the wildlife refuge. You then secure your kayaks for a 1.5-mile round-trip hike through lush jungle valley to a secluded waterfall and swimming hole, complete with rope swing. Uniquely, this is the only kayak tour in Hawaii that features a relaxing return trip on a motorized canoe, so you don't paddle back against the wind.

Practical Information

The tour lasts about 4 hours and costs around $150 for adults and $140 for children. Bring a swimsuit, closed-toe water shoes or sport sandals with good tread for muddy trails, sunscreen, and insect repellent. You must be able to walk the trail and paddle a tandem kayak with a partner for about 60-90 minutes.

Visiting with Respect: Understanding Kuleana

All visitors must understand that Alekoko Fishpond is not a public park. The 102-acre property is privately owned and managed by the nonprofit Mālama Hulēʻia, which leads its restoration. Access to the pond and its walls is restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem, historic structure, and ongoing restoration work.

Please view the pond only from the designated public overlook or from the water on authorized tours. This isn't just a rule—it's an opportunity to practice kuleana, a core Hawaiian value encompassing both privilege and responsibility. By respecting boundaries, you help preserve this sacred place for future generations and honor the community's tireless efforts to heal it.