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Menehune Wall

DIGITAL CORAL ARK

Menehune Wall

19.579882, -155.969325

Visit The Menehune Wall With Us!

The Menehune Wall at Kahaluʻu Bay in Kona, Hawaii, has a deeply storied past. While formal historical and research references related to the Menehune Wall are scarce, the moʻolelo (a Hawaiian word used to denote story, history, legend, myth, and more) has been passed down for untold generations. 

The Menehune, according to numerous Polynesian myths, were skilled builders known for their ability to complete large projects, including heiau (shrines), fishponds, roads, and waterways— always in a single night (Bučková, 2021). The construction of fishponds, a prominent example of early Hawaiian aquaculture and engineering, demonstrates the ancient Hawaiians' sophisticated understanding of environmental manipulation and sustainability (Burney, 2002). These fishponds and other structures attributed to the Menehune showcase the ingenuity and cultural practices of prehistoric Polynesian societies in Hawaiʻi. 

Today, the Menehune Wall stands as a testament to the islands' rich past, drawing visitors and scholars who are interested in the history and legends of Hawaii. The integration of natural and cultural resources at Kahaluʻu Bay reflects the strong connection between the Hawaiian people and their environment, underscoring the importance of preserving these important and most cherished sites.

Google Map view of the Menehune Wall looking toward the north east.

IMPORTANT!

Avoid Venturing Outside the Menehune Wall Unless You Are a Very Experienced Open Ocean Swimmer

Only highly experienced open ocean swimmers should ever attempt to exit the protection of Kahaluʻu Bay and venture to the makai (ocean) side of the Menehune Wall!

Swimming and snorkeling outside the Menehune Wall can be dangerous even when conditions seem great from the shore. Although visitors may see a calm and tranquil snorkeling environment from the shore or pavilion, swimming outside the Menehune Wall is particularly challenging. Even when it’s relatively easy to get out, it can be nearly impossible for some to swim back in depending upon the tides and conditions, both of which can turn on a dime. Strong currents during low tide can rake you over sharp rocks, coral, and wana (venomous spiny urchins). Higher tides combined with surf can make swimming and snorkeling difficult and dangerous. Check with a lifeguard first if you plan to head out. If you’re not sure, here or anywhere, always speak with a lifeguard to make sure you’re not inadvertently placing yourself in danger.

Google Map view of the Menehune Wall from the northwest looking south.

OUTSIDE
THE MENEHUNE WALL
SUMMER, 2023

In Summer 2023, there were thousands of juvenile Hawaii’s native cauliflower coral (P. meandrina) outside the Menehune Wall breakwater of Kahaluʻu Bay. There were also reports of crown-of-thorns (COTS) in the area.

Click on the image below to see contributions to the Digital Coral Ark containing observational and video records of the reef outside the Mehehune Wall pertaining specifically to cauliflower coral and COTS.

Stay tuned for more as we watch the progress of the keiki cauliflower coral colonies outside the Menehune Wall in coming years…!

Do You Have Any Photos/Videos to Share?

IF SO, PLEASE VISIT OUR PHOTO/VIDEO CONTRIBUTOR PAGE AND GET IN TOUCH!

WE’RE LOOKING FOR PHOTOS AND VIDEOS OF KAHALUʻU BEACH PARK SNORKELING THAT:

  • have sufficient clarity and resolution to visually identify species of fish and/or coral.

  • can be identified by date and location (either by personal knowledge or embedded camera data).

  • are owned by adults 18 and over willing to grant permission to use in the historical database.

  • are from 2016 or earlier, especially.

We welcome observations you would like to share or corrections you might note. Contact us!

Photo/Video credits: Christine Zalewski and Pam Madden for Dear Ocean, Jan War contributing to the Digital Coral Ark, & Google Maps.