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WAITA RESERVOIR

a body of water with a mountain in the background

If you’re looking for a great place to go fishing, swimming, or just relax in nature, then you need to check out the Waita Reservoir. Located on the island of Kauai, this reservoir is Hawaii’s largest freshwater reservoir and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. In this blog post, we’ll tell you all about the Waita Reservoir and how you can visit it yourself!

Waita Reservoir Overview

The Waita Reservoir is one of the most beautiful and unexpected places on Kauai. Set against a backdrop of mountains and sprawling hills, it looks like something out of a movie. The reservoir is actually one of the largest inland bodies of fresh water in Hawaii, making it a hidden gem for those seeking to explore the island.

The reservoir is most commonly known for fishing, and you can find tilapia, bass, and other popular fish in these waters. Of course, it’s also very well known for being featured in famous movies such as Jurassic Park.

Previously, the plantations that operated on the land wanted to drain the marsh but it was not done successfully. Years later in the 1900s, the marsh was converted into the reservoir we know today. Over the years, its capacity has increased, and even had 72 million gallons of water at one point!

Throughout history, the Waita Reservoir acted as an important water supply to nearby farms and plantations. Today, it’s a recreational destination that can be used for education and fun!

How To Visit The Waita Reservoir On Kauai

The best and only way to see the Waita Reservoir is by booking an ATV off-road adventure with Kauai ATV. The reservoir is on private property and not accessible unless on one of their tours. This lets you drive an all-terrain vehicle that can take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning scenery on the island. The Kauai ATV tour takes you through lush rainforests, across rushing rivers, and up to the edges of towering cliffs. You’ll get to see parts of the island that most tourists never get to experience.

Best of all, you can do it at your own pace. If you want to go fast and get your adrenaline pumping, you can. Or, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can take your time and enjoy the scenery. Either way, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Fun Facts & Information About The Waita Reservoir

  • The Waita Reservoir gets its name from a combination of both the Japanese and Hawaiian languages. “Waita” is broken down into “wai”, which means water in Hawaiian, and “ta” which can translate to many or multiple in Japanese.
  • A hidden forest from long ago was found within the wetlands that, for a period of time, provided Kōloa Plantation with hundreds of cords of wood each year.
  • It was originally named the Marsh Reservoir, reflecting its swampy appearance when it was first discovered.
  • Some of its water supply travels a long distance, as the reservoir is fed by the Wailua river, which sits almost 20 miles away.

Explore Kauai With Kauai ATV!

Kauai is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and the Waita Reservoir is just one of its many highlights. Kauai ATV offers an unforgettable way to see the island, with off-roading trips that take you to some of the most stunning scenery on Kauai. You’ll see parts of Kauai that would be hard to reach by foot or car, and you’re sure to come away with some amazing memories. So if you’re looking for an exciting way to see Kauai, book a trip with Kauai ATV today!