Aimakapa fishpond is located just inland from Honokohau Beach in Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park. The pond provides habitat for native waterbirds such as the black-necked stilt and the coot, and is the only known Hawaiian breeding area for the Pied-billed Grebe. The fishpond can be reached from Honokohau Harbor and also from the main trail at the Historical Park.
Aimakapa is created by the trapping of water behind large natural sand dunes. A sluice gate lined with stone cut through the beach area and allowed seawater to enter the pond. Secondary walls provided at least six separate areas for separating fish.
Though Aimakapa is now largely overgrown it remains somewhat intact and is home to awa (milkfish) as well as native waterbirds. The pond dates to at least the fifth century A.D., and a large stone known as Kanaka Leo Nui (“Man with a loud voice”) stands on a high point above the pond. Aimakapa is named after a chief who stood on the stone while directing fishing offshore.
To reach Aimakapa fishpond follow Hwy. 19 north from Kailua-Kona and turn left between Mile Markers 97 and 98. Park in the north parking lot of Honokohau Harbor and then follow the trail north past Honokohau Beach where you will find the pond on the inland side.