The Waita Reservoir, near Kauai’s Tree Tunnel and Old Koloa Sugar Mill, is a destination for those seeking to find the hidden gems of the island. The reservoir is one of the largest inland bodies of fresh water in Hawaii, and indeed it has all the appearances of a large lake. Set against a beautiful backdrop of mountains as seen in movies such as Jurassic Park, the reservoir is an unexpected treasure.
The reservoir is best known as a fishing spot. Bass, tilapia and other fish can be found in the waters. The reservoir has hosted Keiki Fishing at Koloa Plantation Days and private fishing charter services are available.
The Waita Reservoir was originally built in the early 1900s, in an area known as the Koloa Swamp, to supply water to the sugar cane fields of the day. Today, the reservoir still provides water to local agricultural projects.
The reservoir is located on private property. A dirt road leads to the reservoir from near the Old Koloa Sugar Mill location. The road is the only road to the left of the sugar mill (at the Mahaulepu Road intersection) that is not blocked with a gate, at least on our most recent visit in April 2019.
Knudson Road also leads to the reservoir. Local ATV tours also visit the area of the reservoir and Koloa Zipline has a zipline named “Waita” that travels 2,500 feet across the reservoir.
Waita Reservoir Photos
Waita Reservoir Map
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