Kawai Nui Marsh

Kawai Nui Marsh is a large wetland in Kailua with diverse aquatic plants and functions as a natural filtration system for the local watershed. The area displays both open water and densely vegetated sections shaped by its long history.

Ancient Hawaiians engineered this former bay into a fishpond system that supported fish and multiple crop species. This engineered landscape persisted for generations until changes altered its character.

The name Kawai Nui means abundant water in Hawaiian and reflects this place's importance as the largest remaining wetland in the Hawaiian islands. Locals and visitors recognize it as a symbol of Hawaii's natural heritage.

The site is accessible by a paved walking trail starting from Kaha Park in Kailua that offers good viewing points across the water. The path is relatively flat and works well for birdwatching and photography.

The wetland provides nesting habitat for four endangered Hawaiian water birds found nowhere else on the islands. These species depend on the specific conditions here to survive.