Did you find yourself here by searching “are there lakes in Hawaii?” You’re not alone as many individuals often wonder if the Aloha State is home to any magnificent lakes. Truth be told, there are very few lakes in Hawaii. After all, the state is made up of a chain of small islands. But we do have several small reservoirs that are essentially lakes. Check out a few of our favorites:

1. Lake Waiau
Lake Waiau, Hawaii, USA
Charles/Flickr
Lake Waiau is one of the very highest lakes in all of the United States. It's located a staggering 13,000 feet above sea level, right on top of the Big Island's Mauna Kea. It's relatively small, measuring only about 325 meters across. Still, it's kind of a big deal, as it's the only remaining lake on Hawaii Island after Ka Wai o Pele evaporated in 2018. Visiting this incredible lake in Hawaii feels like something from a dream. The lake used to be much larger, and the size changes throughout the year depending on the weather. In the spring, it's typically around seven feet deep. The land is considered to be sacred and at one point, only priests were allowed to access this area.
2. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden: 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Ho?omaluhia Botanical Garden, 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Megan Shute
The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is an amazing oasis in the midst of an island paradise. This 400-acre preserve is home to many native Hawaiian plant species, plus tropical plants from around the world. The crowning jewel of the garden, however, is the 32-acre freshwater lake. It's a popular spot for catch-and-release fishing, and since it's one of very few Hawaiian lakes, it's a beloved spot.

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3. Ka Loko Reservoir
Ka Loko Reservoir, Hawaii 96754, USA
Polihale/Wikipedia
The Ka Loko Reservoir is located on Kauai. It was created by an earthen dam. Water flows from the reservoir to the Waiakalua Reservoir, Waikalua Stream, and finally to the Pacific Ocean.
4. Nuaanu Reservoir
Nuuanu Reservoir, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
Megan Shute
The Nuaanu Reservoir is another hidden oasis in Oahu that's an absolutely breathtaking hike. You can catch it on the trail up to Lulumahu Falls, near the Pali Highway. You'll find it surrounded by a lush bamboo forest, a verdant green jungle, and an absolutely gorgeous field.

We have a few other lakes in Hawaii (well, technically, they’re reservoirs). You can find the Waita Reservoir on Kauai and the Puukapu Reservoir on the Big Island. Hey, even if there aren’t any major lakes in Hawaii, we still have the best beaches in the country!

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Lakes In Hawaii

Lisa Sammons | May 11, 2022

What are some of the best beaches in Hawaii?

Hawaii is practically nothing but beautiful beaches. We could honestly make an almost endless list of the best beaches to check out in the Aloha State: this place is honestly paradise. There's a reason that Hawaiian beaches are such a popular tourist attraction!

What are some great trails in Hawaii?

There are plenty of hikes in Hawaii that are out of this world. Whether you're looking for a trail leading to a magical waterfall or a forest that looks straight out of a storybook, there's something for everyone on the trails here.

What are the most beautiful mountains in Hawaii?

Mauna Kea on the Big Island is probably the most famous mountain in Hawaii, but we have plenty of beautiful ones that are worth a visit. Hualalai, also on the Big Island, is one of the most famous volcanoes in the area and it is also magnificent.

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