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Moloka`i: Halawa Valley

Peter Forbes

At the remote northern end of the island of Moloka'i, Halawa Valley offers a modern view of an ancient culture. Here, local residents began restoring lo'i (flooded terraces) and 'auwai (canals) in 1997, then reintroduced kalo (taro) into fields first planted by Native Hawaiians hundreds of years ago. The land now functions as an outdoor classroom, bringing at-risk youth from the neighboring islands to the valley for education, recreation, and re-connection to a rich cultural history.

The History
Halawa has been interpreted as "ample taro stems," accurately describing a valley that once served as the breadbasket for Moloka'i and even exported taro to parts of Maui. Commercial taro production in Halawa continued through the early 20th century, but finally ceased after two major tsunami hit the valley in 1946 and 1957. In addition to the ancient taro lo'i, Halawa is also famous for its two waterfalls: Moa'ula and Hipuapua. According to Hawaiian tradition, the pool at the base of Moa'ula is the home of Mo'o (water spirits). The wise visitor will drop a ti leaf on the surface of the water and only if it floats consider it safe to enter the pool to swim.

TPL's Role
In 1998 and 1999, TPL protected two unique parcels in Halawa Valley. Working with the local Maui Open Space Trust, farmers in Halawa Valley, and the landowners, TPL first acquired a beach parcel at the mouth of the valley containing quarters for the land stewards, communal cooking facilities,and storage sheds for agricultural equipment. Later, TPL acquired a parcel in the valley itself containing ancient lo'i, allowing continued restoration and education. TPL conveyed both parcels to the Maui Open Space Trust for community stewardship.

When You Go
Because of the nature of the programs run in Halawa Valley, TPL requests that you contact our office in Honolulu at 808-524-8560 prior to visiting the site. This enables the program to accommodate visitors and will help you get the most out of your visit!

Where to Eat
No trip to Moloka'i is complete without tasting sweetbread in all its glorious and different manifestations from Kanemitsu Bakery on Ala Malama street in Kaunakakai. At 5:30 AM, every morning except Tuesday, the door opens and a seductive smell rolls through the early morning streets. Leave your diet at the door and try the apple-cinnamon topping. The bakery's phone number is 553-5855.

Driving Directions
The lone Kamehameha V Highway (450) skirting the southeast Moloka'i coastline ends at Halawa. Just drive mana'e (toward the east) from the main town of Kaunakakai until the highway runs out and look for Halawa Beach Park, where there is a pavilion, restrooms, barbecue grills, and a parking area. 

Conserving land for people on Moloka'i
We hope you enjoy your visit to Halawa Valley. Be sure to check out some of TPL's projects on other islands: Lumaha'i Beach and Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, both on Kaua`i.