Once you pass the stream and campsites, the trail becomes increasingly wild. On the day we hiked, it was pretty crowded and there were lots of cars driving throughout the trail (maybe one ever minute or two). We list below a few things to do / places to see close to Pololu: Keokea beach park is a quiet beach park with a shower, restrooms, and picnic tables close to Hawi and Pololu Valley (2.5 miles, about 10 minutes by car). The trail can be quite muddy if it has been raining. So please, for everyones sake, locals and future Hawaii visitors alike, avoid those bushes! In the event it reopens, it's likely not worth your trouble. Your email address will not be published. The uphill is good and strenuous, but the first mile of the hike (the steep part) is paved and rough on your knees. We were devastated to hear that this access road may remain closed until 2025! to the bottom, head for the black sandy beach (the small trails that follow the In Hawaii, respecting the land is a big thing in Hawaiian culture. But in 1946, the most devastating tsunami in Hawaii's history swept great waves far back into the valley. Before you know it, you will have made it to the Pololu Valley floor. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. The 9-mile Muliwai Trail from Waipi'o Valley into Waimanu Valley is rough, hazardous and extremely steep in spots, so only experienced backcountry hikers should attempt it. Waipio Valley Residents Still Seek A Deal Limiting Foot Traffic On The beach itself is made out of a mix of black sand and large boulders. The Pololu Valley Lookout; The hike into Pololu Valley; The black sand beach; Continue hiking to the next valley: the Honokane Nui trail; How to get to Pololu Valley; Things to do close to Pololu Valley; Pololu Valley history. NATIONAL LAKESHORES Check out the other things I did on the Island of Hawaii: Have you done the Pololu Valley Hike or the Waipio Valley Hike? so sad! Various sections of the trail, which runs in a steep zigzag down the vegetated cliff face, have been rebuilt - read article.. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. While the "hike" down to the beach isn't extensive, it's so rewarding. Beyond that, though, the drive to & from is part of the experience. Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. Starting at the Waipio Valley overlook (photo above), the hike down to the black sand beach on the valley floor is about 1.5 miles or 2.4 kilometers. Recommended Posts. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88584435', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kauai and Maui pretty extensively and will be heading to Maui after BI this trip. Please share your thoughts and comments below. The Pololu Valley Lookout gives a spectacular view over the cliffs of the Kohala volcano. The photos he took were spectacular. One of the best places to hike on the Big Island is the Pololu Valley. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). One day of hiking to the Big Island valley beaches, swim shirts with UV protection like these, Why a personal swim buoy is an essential for snorkeling and swimming in the ocean. Date first visited: . We would love to see things that are truly unique to big island; we have hiked (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Stunning View of the Waipio Valley #shorts - YouTube All of the land upriver is privately owned. If youre looking for something to do somewhat in the area, you might have a look at Lapakahi State Historical Park for a top Big Island snorkeling spot and to walk through an ancient Hawaiian village, or Hapuna Beach state park which has been called one of the best beaches on the Big Island. The water here is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by very experienced swimmers and surfers. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. Glow, horses. So be careful. Rating: 4 (out of 4) stars, would go again, Location: Trailhead is at the Pololu Lookout on the Big Island of Hawaii, Distance: 4.6 miles roundtrip (including the Honokane Nui Lookout). Arriving at 8:30 am, I was a bit bummed at how busy it was already. The sacred Waipio Valley was once the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, and is an important site for Hawaiian history and culture. The string of gulches on the Hamakua and Kohala side of the island starts at Polulu and ends up in Waipio valley on the other side of the island. Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. Waipio Valley. You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipio Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. In terms of color, its not the blackest black sand beach on the Big Island, but the wet sand can make it appear especially black. Waipio Valley Hike Guide: Directions, Length, and Trail Map Home Views Saw one fisherman on the beach, and four vehicles passed us while hiking the paved section. Maybe its best to think of this as a half day activity. We are on the big island for 6 days (I know that's not much but only time everybody was able to get off work). There are heiaus and historical parks to explore along the way. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii, as seen from the overlook. Waipi'o Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. pic.twitter.com/D9gdoFolfq. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. The rest of the gulches follow in order from: Parking is The ocean, the enormous cliffs hugging the coastline and the lush green Pololu valley in the background are all surreal together. Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! Hiking stick for balance is very helpful as well. The hike felt remote and accessed some incredible jungle-like flora that I was craving while in Hawaii. Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. Hike down on broken paved road. " The hike down to Waipio valley is on a steep paved road, . (Although you will pass through the cute Hawi town.). The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapaau. There are some great views of picturesque bodies of water, including the ocean, a small lake, and a river. The passing clouds threaten rain but also provide dynamic skies in your photos. Sounds like Pololu is more about the journey and a shorter hike. Locals only. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. A short way across you will come to a stream. Quan forgot her jacket upon checking out of Waimea Country Lodge. Exploring Hawaii's Big Island volcanoes and valleys | CNN Travel What island is honokaa on? - vknao.hioctanefuel.com You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipi'o Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. Explore majestic Waipi'o Valley, the lush and tropical Hamakua Coast, and multiple stunning waterfalls on the east side of the Big Island of Hawaii on this day full of fun and exciting adventure. Please try again. Start early - like 730-8 in morning. Looking back into the valley you can see the waters of Pololu stream. The cliffs are also known to have landslides as the coast continues its process of erosion. Getting There. Pololu Trail | Map, Guide - Hawaii, Hawaii | AllTrails Expect this hike to the top of the ridge to take an additional 45 minutes to an hour both ways. Camping is not allowed at Pololu since it is on private land and permits only issued for specific research studies. On either side of the valleyare cliffs reaching almost 2000 feet in elevation with numerous cascading waterfalls. Afterward, most people left the valley, and it has been sparsely . By doing the hike, you . of water with you on the short hike and sun screen for hot days, Trail and rocky and rough so hiking shoes or tennis shoes are necessary. Waipio Valley Lookout discounts - what to see at The Big Island (Hawaii island) - check out reviews and 4 photos for Waipio Valley Lookout - popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Waipio Valley Lookout Day 6: Big Island Road Trip Itinerary (Waipi'o Valley and Polol Valley) The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast youre staying. If you're heading there from one of the main towns, the drive is still about an hour and a half from Hilo, and two hours from Kona. Depending on recent rains and time of year it can be relatively low or quite high. If you desire dramatic views of Hawaii Island's northeastern coastline, including impressive cliffs, verdant valleys, and lush landscapes, head to Pololu Valley, Waipio Valley's lesser-known but still just as gorgeous cousin at the end of Hawaii Island's seven major valleys carved into the Kohala Coast. Waipio Valley Trail [CLOSED] | Map, Guide - Hawaii, Hawaii | AllTrails From there you can look back into the valley seeing waterfalls unseen from other side. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Nanaue Falls Loop from Kukuihaele. 4. Keokea Beach park a beautiful park with nice views of the coastline with picnic grounds and public services. Hawaii Police said a 2000 Toyota 4Runner was traveling downhill on Waipio Access Road, when it experienced a brake failure and collided with a 2004 Ford Econoline, a tour van, traveling uphill. You have to turn around. The trees break the wind on the valley floor, so I can see why this is a desirable camping destination. Take Kohala Mountain Road on your way back ~ another stunning drive. See Wild Horses In Hawaii Roam Free In The Waipio Valley picture taking. If youre interested in Pololu Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: ROAD TRIP AMERICA Streams in the valley are susceptible to flash flooding. Hiking east of Polol Valley is prohibited due to private property. But if you prepare for the crowds and mud, then I know you will enjoy the hike as much as I did. Answer 1 of 11: What is the best way to see Polulu Valley and Waipio Valley? Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. Theres also a trail that starts from the Pololu Valley lookout that goes down to sea level and makes for a great coastal hike. However, as it heads inland, you will get a peek at the Pololu Valley below. We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. Once you get Instead, locals would like you to know about Keokea Beach Park where there are bathrooms. The valley was the permanent home for Hawaiian ali'i (royalty) until the time of King Umi-a-Lloa. HALEAKALA HI Waipi'o Valley hike time: The hike will take a total of 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the fitness level of the group and time spent exploring the valley floor. One thing my hubby and I really enjoy on vacation is a scenic drive with some character (we are obsessed with Road to Hana--if we're in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Later in 1780, the great King Kamehameha received the war god . We're staying in Kolea area so the drive time is not too much different to either. Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. Amazing is an understatement. There people are often volunteering their time to give visitors information about visiting the valley and the make sure parking only happens in allowed spaces. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Waipio Valley Information, Photos & More - Hawaii Guide Top 10 Volcanoes in Hawaii | Town & Tourist I recommend heading inland, and youll see a stone-lined walking path. We like to be doing actual hiking for about 2-3 hours plus the time to stop and take in the sights. Mahalo! You wont get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. Seeing so many people doing this, it can be seen as a form of disrespecting the land. All Rights Reserved. If you hike- especially after rainy season- wear waterproof sneakers. we didn't end up going all the way. Hike the Pololu Valley - letsgo-hawaii.com Best bet is to check the daily weather patterns for the day and see if it works with your plans to visit for the area. steep with 13 percent grade going down to the valley floor and is only .6 miles Its a relatively easy 30 minute hike down to the floor and then to the black sand beach which you can hike from end to end. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. That is why only a part of the hike is described here. If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). This breathtaking view will leave you wanting more!If you're loo. The trailhead has no services at all no water, no restrooms, and no cell service. So, Have you been to Polulu and want to go back again? MUD!! Thanks for the suggestion PlanetR. Going Beyond Polulu Valley-Hard Hike On Hawaii Island Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. Beyond the Lookout: Exploring the Big Island's Pololu Valley Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. The crossing might be dry. A little off the beaten path, this hike was our favorite on the Big Island. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. People are starting the hike, ending the hike, and simply coming to admire the views. Bring a windbreaker or rain jacket just in case. 11:00-1:00: Take a Road Trip to Hip Hawi (#28) and explore Kapa'au. Here are some comparisons: A group of Chinese immigrants settled in the valley in the late 1800 and built churches . You can also make it a valley beach hike kind of day and make this day on the Big Island a Pololu Valley + Waipio Valley kind of day. Bummer, this trail is closed. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. After one more switchback inland, you emerge from the trees to see the view at Honokane Nui Lookout. Drive down the Akone Pule highway 270 and past the small town of Hawi. The trail down into the valley is a section of the old government road to wini. He thought I would like it, so next trip for sure! The small town of Kapaau has I'd suggest taking the Waipio Valley Shuttle if you have young kids in tow. Longitude: -155.7274313. If youre staying a bit further north in one of the Waikoloa resorts on the Kohala coast, its a bit closer and might take around an hour. We walked the opposite direction along the beach, crossed the river inflow and went to the large rocks before turning around. Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley. The trail to Pololu Beach is a steep, dirt path. SNORKELING SHIRTS Noel Morata is the creator of This Hawaii Life along with a small team of contributors. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88624665', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui one week we'll go out there at least twice if not more). This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Stay organized while planning your own trip with a TRIP PLANNING DOCUMENT. If you do, please be mindful that you are visiting sacred land. It takes about 30 - 45 minutes, but the walk back up will take anywhere between 1 - 1.5 hours depending on your level of physical fitness. Honokane Nui was a victim of the October 2006 earthquake, and the trail into the valley was reportedly destroyed. Hawaii - Pololu Valley Hike to the Remote Honokane Nui Lookout. A gorgeous visit to Polulu Valley on the west side of Hawaii. Should be great! Once on the valley floor, the flora changes abruptly into large ironwood trees just behind the beach. The Kohala coast of the Big Island stunned me yet again. Pololu valley. downhill on the trail is rocky and wide with some nice spots for views and It might take around 30 minutes to hike down to the beach from the lookout. 1: Maui Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Road to Hana (Maui) 6: Maui Itinerary 7: Maui blog posts, The second-biggest island in the chain, much of Mauis appeal comes from its natural landscape and biodiversity, including its two massive volcanoes, whale watching and marine ecosystems, 1: Oahu Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Oahu Beaches 6: Oahu Itinerary 7: Oahu blog posts. Some of the most popular scenery on the big island includes the Pololu Valley, Haleakala Volcano, Maui's Road to Hana, Waipio Valley Isle, Lanai's Kaunolu, Oahu's North Shore, and some stunning beaches that depict the true Hawaiian culture. statue of Kamehameha 1st who united all of the Hawaiian Islands. opportunity in the area. If you enjoyed the images and post, could you please share it with any of the social media buttons located around the post. From Pololu valley on these valleys stretch towards the south-east in an impressive display that you can partly see from the Pololu lookout point. I did this once alone, probably took 4 hours. Waipi'o Valley - Valley of the Kings , by ALOHA DEAN The Seven Sacred Pools is part of Haleakala National Park and located on the eastern part of Maui, about 40 minutes beyond Hana. Hike: Start at the Polol Valley overlook and find the trailhead for the Awini Trail marked by an extensive array of danger signs. one of my friends got a cut on their ankles and we asked a local for a ride up and not having to climb us was the highlight of the trip, INDEFINITE CLOSURE: as of February, 2022, the road leading to this trailhead, Wai'po Valley Road, is closed indefinitely. Lets get into the hike! March 3, 2023. We don't shy away from more aggressive hiking but can also enjoy something more laid back as well. --Ernest Hemingway, Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, Re: Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u46mHlI3pD0. I loved the dramatic and rugged landscape of the Pololu Valley Hike. Sign indicated trail was closed until 2025, but we parked and immediately hiked down the steep, paved path to the black sand beach without any issues. NEW YORK You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. visit on sunnier days when the trail is dry and easy to hike below, There are no 5. Great hike. The hike down is steep, but mostly on pavement. Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. So Pololu Valley is one of the great coastal valleys on the north side of the Big Island. The road leading to the Pololu Valley Lookout has also been repaired - news release. There was an error submitting your subscription. The wind blowing in the shrubs and trees and helicopters buzzing close over your head enhance the expansive view. NORTH DAKOTA Leave before 12, or youll be stopping a lot to share the road. Image by: Floyd Stewart/Flickr. Take the coast highway one direction; the landscape there is unmatchable. If you want to drive instead of hiking down, you'll need to . V: Pololu Valley - emilyberkson 2022 Closure Notice On February 25, 2022, the County of Hawaii issued an Emergency Rule announcing the closure of Waipio Valley Road to visitors as a precautionary safety measure and to further assess and mitigate . Island of Hawaii. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. You climb over 750 feet with many switch backs for about one mile uphill. This river is fed by agricultural runoff, so carefully consider how you treat this water before drinking. During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. Head out to the rocky beach for a view of the ocean and rugged coastline. Great info Colleen and RJ. Duration: 10 to 11 hours. The huge sea cliffs paralleling a beautiful black sand beach were simply amazing to look at. Start at the small, 10-car parking lot at the Pololu Valley Lookout and follow signs for the Awini Trail descending down 300 feet over half a mile to the valley floor and the beach. Copyright 2020, BigIslandHikes.com. For more information, please visit, No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! There are no lifeguards on the beach and the surf breaks and the beach with undertow is treacherous so swimming is not encouraged on the beach. Waipio Valley is on the northern peninsula of the Big Island. Hikes on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Isaac Art Center Waimea - This Hawaii Life, Waimea Farmers Markets - This Hawaii Life, Black sand beaches of Hawaii - This Hawaii Life, Kapoho black sand beach - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike to Ha'ena Beach - This Hawaii Life, Green sand beach on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Free or cheap things to do on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike to Narnia - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike at Puuwaawaa - This Hawaii Life. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. Polol Valley: the Lookout, the Hike, and the Black Sand Beach 2. There are are group tours that lead visitors directly to see the waterfall at Pololu called Kapoloa Falls, this is managed by Hawaii Forest and Trail. Gear: Standard hiking gear. By: Wasabi Tours. . Colleen you need to do this hike. The trail, sometimes referred to as Awini Trail, that leads down to the black sand beach ( Pololu Valley Beach) takes approximately half an hour to hike. Crossing the river had water a bit above our knees, but again, it was well worth it to get to the rocks at the far end of the beach. During its long lifetime, erosion by rainwater has cut multiple deep gulches, gorges and valley in the flanks of the windward side of the Kohala volcano. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88589471', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kohala and the Pololu Valley. He said there is a rock fall risk and it wont be opened again until repairs are completed. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. One of the benefits of living in Hawaii is the opportunity to be outside just about every day of the year. Waipi'o valley Hike: A 6.5 mile round trip of medium difficulty. 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. I took a couple of timelapse videos and could see the light move around on the valley walls with the clouds. Followers 1. The road was wet while we were there so I'm glad I didn't try to drive it. This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The ocean at Pololu valley is not a safe place to go swimming. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. Sign up today on the latest for your slice of paradise! If you are visiting in the winter months (from ~December to ~March) this is a great place to try and see humpback whales. 6.12 km. This hike starts at the parking lot near the Waipio Lookout. Pololu is the northwestern most of those valleys. Got there at 10 and parking was "80% full" on a Friday. (Please do not disturb anything in this ancient site it is untouched and still in wonderful condition). many unique galleries and shops worth exploring while you are in the area. Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. The hike down the side of the cliff to the valley floor is short but steep: ~420 ft in 0.6 miles (126 meters in 1.0 kilometers) and takes about 20 to 25 minutes for the average hiker. Also, if you want an adventure, check out Kaumana Caves. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Located in the flourishing green pastures of North Kohala at the end of Highway 270, Pololu Valley is simply awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise. It is a very tempting prospect; however, this is extremely dangerous as one errant wave could easily knock you off the rocks and into the ocean. Hike Waipio Valley Big Island, Hawaii - Backcountrycow Take your time at the lookout, and I bet you will have some time alone. Its a rewarding view that allows you to get away from the crowds that do the Pololu Valley Hike. Next time with two others and we brought plenty of water and took about 3 hours. There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. You can stick around for 10 minutes to snap a few pictures of the breathtaking coastline and take in the scenery but the real attraction at Pololu is the short but steep hike down into the valley and the black sand beach at the valley floor. There was a bit of muddy spots on the flat part of the road/trail, but easily navigable. Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. By syr101, October 30, 2014 in Hawaii. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Waipio'o Valley Loop from Kukuihaele . (You can reach it from the beach, but it involves walking over lots of rocks.) The strenuous Z Trail can access this wild valley, otherwise, it was required a chopper tour to see