A Tale Of Two Seas

A Tale of Two Seas​

Growing up, I often wondered where the name Kailua came from, and as a young adult I walked Kailua beach trying to spot a geographic feature that would create this effect. So, I dove deeper into the translations, “two seas” or “two currents”.

Many would be surprised to learn that the translation “two seas” is derived from the surrounding wetland areas of Kawainui and Kaelepulu. Over 6,000 years ago these riparian zones were bays that opened to the ocean. As time moved forward, these bays became lagoons. A sand bar eventually formed and created a new coastline, what we know today as ‘Coconut Grove’, the heavily populated area of Kailua. Further mauka, organic material and clay washed down from the Koolau mountains slowly creating the wetlands of today. Kawainui and Kaelepulu are ingrained in the identity of Kailua and are home to some of our most unique native species and are designated as critical habitat for endangered and rare water birds.

The second translation “two currents” refers to the ocean currents that flow into the present-day bay. One current from the North along the cliffs of Mokapu, and the other from the East. These currents converge in the center of Kailua Bay near Kalama Beach Park. The currents then circulate out to the open ocean through a deep, sandy, meandering channel (photo below right). This convergence of currents can often be seen from the beach as small rip currents from the beach. This channel is likely a remnant feature from when Kawainui and Kailua Bay were one feature.
These wetlands of Kawainui and Kaelepulu encompass over 850 acres and were historically used to farm fish, kalo and rice. This rich agricultural land provided resources for some of the earliest settlements on Oahu. Kawainui translates to the “great water”, wai also has references to fresh waters. Kaelepulu means the moist darkness which may refer to moss or algae that grew in the area. 

Both ecosystems have been heavily impacted by non-native species introductions, urban development, and water diversions. Both wetlands suffer from an encroachment of invasive species like mangrove, erosion, and polluted runoff from the surrounding streets and residents.
Retrofitting storm drains and canals to reduce sediment and debris from entering waterways is a technique that can be used to increase overall wetland health. Allowing a more frequent exchange of water or restoring natural flow between the ocean and wetlands is another strategy that will improve wetland quality. Assisting in removing non-native plants like mangrove, or participating in local community efforts to restore historical places and native species’ habitats is a fun and great way you can help to protect our wetlands!

For more information, species descriptions and pictures of Kawanui and Kaelepulu check out some of these links: DLNR-DOFAW, Hui o Ko'olaupoko, Natural History, Hydrology and Water Quality of Enchanted Lake – Kaelepulu Pond, Kaelepulu wetland general information.