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Kahana State Park

Ahupuaa O Kahana State Park is located between Laie and Kaneohe on Oahu’s windward side. The park is a traditional Hawaiian ahupuaa, which is a land division extending from the mountains to the sea and including everything needed for subsistence. Kahana Valley is one of only a few ahupuaa in the state that is owned by the public. Families living in the park assist with the park’s interpretive programs that help to educate people about Hawaiian plants, culture, and history. To arrange for cultural programs for groups call (808) 237-7766. Kahana extends from the top of the Koolau Mountains to sea level at
Kahana Bay and encompasses more than 5,000 acres. This is one of Oahu’s wettest valleys, receiving up to 300 inches annually at the back of the valley.

Kahana Bay, Oahu by scaramangauk

About two miles wide by four miles long, Kahana Valley was planted extensively with taro by Hawaiians in ancient times. Many archeological sites have been found throughout the valley including heiau (sacred sites), fishponds, irrigation channels, and agricultural terraces.

Kahana State Park
Kahana Valley is one of only a few ahupuaa in the state that is owned by the public

Huilua Fishpond

Huilua Fishpond is on the east side of the bay and is fed by freshwater springs. The pond is said to have been built by the legendary ancient race of people known as Menehune. Two hiking trails at Kahana State Park are open to the public with trail
maps provided at the Orientation Center. Nakoa Trail is 5 miles through a tropical rainforest, crossing the Kahana stream twice and featuring native koa trees. Kapaeleele Koa and Keaniani Lookout Trail is only one mile long and provides a leisurely
hour walk. Both trails provide scenic views of Kahana Bay and also pass near important Hawaiian cultural sites. Facilities at Kahana include a Visitor Center, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a payphone. Permits for the ten beach campsites can be obtained from the State Parks Office at (808) 587-0300.

Access

Kahana State Park is located at 52-222 Kamehameha Highway (Highway 83), about 26 miles from Honolulu. The park is open during daylight hours. Admission is free.