About
Mokauea Island is located in the ahupaʻa of Kalihia in the waters of Keʻehi. In ancient Hawaiian times, Keʻehi was home to a very productive food system consisting of approximately 20 loko iʻa, including a kiʻo pua (holding pen for young fish) on the Mokauea island. Due to Western development, this extensive food system was destroyed. Today, the only fishpond remaining in this area is one that sits on Mokauea island.
Western development also affected the residents of Mokauea and residents on its neighboring islands in Keʻehi. Residents, whose families lived on the islands for generations, were removed. Today, only three remain on Mokauea and the island is known as Hawaii’s last fishing village.
Although “development” destroyed many aspects of Mokauea and the Keʻehi region, the spirit of the area lives on. Learn more about the rich history of Mokauea, the moʻoleo of the island, and the organization that continues to celebrate Mokauea by exploring the links below.
History of Mokauea
From ancient Hawaiian times to World War II to modern-day, Mokauea and its surrounding area have quite the history. It has seen its share of triumphs and trials and tribulations that create the rich history of the area. Celebrate Mokauea’s history by learning the events that have taken place.
Moʻolelo
Stories (moʻolelo) of Mokauea and its surrounding area have been passed down from generation-to-generation since ancient Hawaiian times. From shark riders to moʻolelo about the land, learn the stories of Mokauea shared by Maulioa Keʻehi.
Mauliola Keʻehi
Mauliola Keʻehi is the organization that continues the legacy of Mokauea and the waters of Keʻehi through community outreach, restoration, and volunteer efforts. They have made Mokauea an outdoor classroom for students to learn science, technology, engineering, and math, as well as the Hawaiian culture and the history of the area. Learn about their efforts and how to get involved.
Additional Resources
- E Kamakani Hou: Dr. Widiasih to study Mokauea fishpond
- Honolulu Civil Beat: Reclaiming History: Oahu’s Last Hawaiian Fishing Village
- Mokauea Fishermen’s Association: Resources
- PBS Hawai‘i – HIKI NŌ Episode #803 | Mililani Middle School – Central O‘ahu | Mokauea Island
- University of Hawaii News: Sustainable aquaculture explored through math at Mokauea fishpond