This 143-acre wetland sanctuary on Amala Place near Kahului Airport is where you'll spot Hawaii's endangered ae'o (Hawaiian stilt) and 'alae ke'oke'o (Hawaiian coot) doing their thing. Most tourists literally fly right over this ancient ecosystem that once stretched all the way to Queen Ka'ahumanu Center - ancient Hawaiians used these brackish ponds for fish farming when ocean fishing was kapu.
The short paved path leads to a covered lookout with 360-degree views of the ponds. Yeah, you'll hear planes overhead, but there's something oddly peaceful about this juxtaposition of old and new Hawaii. It's a quick 10-15 minute visit, perfect for arrival or departure day when you want a taste of what these islands were like before development took over.
💡 Insider Tip
Bring binoculars and hit it early morning for the best bird action. Always latch the gate behind you, and don't be surprised if the parking situation looks a bit rough - it's still worth the stop for those endangered stilts.
Open during daylight hours
Free
Small lot off Hana Hwy
Early morning for best birding
