I think we will visit Pololu Valley we stopped at those two historical markers that Chi_Dave mentioned. That seems right to me. Both valleys were heavily farmed historically, but today there no more loi kalo (taro ponds) in Polol, unlike Waipio, which is still home to many Native Hawaiian kalo farmers. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. Waipio Valley Sunrise. More information at the Keokea beach park website. We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. If you are going to Pololu Valley during whale season (between ~December and March) and want to include a whale-watching picnic to your visit you should start by checking out our DIY whale watching tips. This landslide is responsible for the now famous sea cliffs on the windward Kohala shoreline but also triggered a giant tsunami that left marine deposits multiple 100 ft high on the other islands (read more). As of September 19, 2022 access to the valley floor with a covered 4WD vehicle (no ATV!) I would choose Pololu - there are some nice beaches to stop at on the S. Kohala coast (although you could incorporate those into a Waipio drive as well) - but the drive up #270 and down #250 provides a lot of amazing scenery, which for me would be the deciding factor in favour of Pololu. Interested? There are people living in Waipio Valley. I got the feeling that she gave the same recommendation for one reason or another just to stop people from hiking down. The beach looks beautiful and is a very good place to relax after coming down into the valley, but take care with going into the water. Beautiful beach. Shares the beach area with the Prince Hapuna Beach Hotel. If you have any other suggestions don't be afraid to give them. It is not an all day thing unless you want it to be. Great for first-time visitors. avoided the pig droppings again on the trail and loped into Pololu Valley as dusk started to cast its glow on the forest. Yes, north on #19 which connects to #270, through Hawi and then to Pololu. If you have any other suggestions don't be afraid to give them. Leaning toward Waipi'o Valley, seems less crowded and just as beautiful. Start out early at Pololu because parking is scarce there. Suggestions: From the Fairmont, hop over to Honokaope black sand beach, at the south end of Mauna Lani Resort, in the 49 Black Sands subdivision. Ive driven down Waipio a few times but not sure the reward at the end is worth the walk down and then back up unless you plan on staying for a while. Beautiful views! It was going to be be a stop on the way to/from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? lovebigisland.com, gohawaii.com, bigislandguide.com, and so on). Some nice stores with local art work there as well. It is a gorgeous beach (I've stayed there a few times pre-earthquake). She also had a sheet saying g the trail was closed tomorrow, but again no specific agency. 3. Its a 90 minute adventure if you hang out for a while in the valley. Respect the private land and the people living in the valley. The ocean is very powerful here, no swimming! 110% worth it!! If you do swim, pay attention the the currents as they will pull you down the beach. Also, I keep hearing about the traffic in Kona, how bad is it. We don't mind hikes and would like to swim at the beach. north to south or vice versa. This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. You can find the complete report here and read the Mayors most recent amended (09/16/2022) Waipio Valley Road Emergency Rule No. I included a couple of beaches on the route (Hapuna and Waialea) that would be worth checking out on the Kohala Coast. Woman in parking lot "recommended" not to hike, due to weather. Be aware though that the ocean currents can be strong so do not go into the water too deep. If you like exercise you also opt for a hike to the next valley. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. People do it, but it's not as fun that way. Good idea to get the car at the King Kam hotel to eliminate the extra time needed for shuttles. Worth it to get to the black sand beach at the bottom though. As a first-time visitor to the Big Island I didnt know what to do so I got some local knowledge on where I could go to make memories. I've been reading this forum for months and it has been extremely helpful. Going to either would be a great way to spend a day! Lush green forests covering every hillside and a beckoning black beach made for a timeless landscape. Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley. They by coming back down #250 you get a completely different view and it makes a loop of the drive per this route. For wither, you get to walk along shore. Sometimes you will encounter horses on the road. This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. Image credit: Eric Tessmer, source. Fortunately there are enough people with this issue to sustain a lively business of Waipio Valley tours that take people down to the valley floor. Waiulili Falls That was when we realized just how tall this waterfall really was. . Fortunately, they only had some cosmetic cracks, even though some of them were pretty scary-looking. Honoke'a. Waipio is the southeastern most of the Hamakua coasts dramatic stream valleys. But without knowing your vision of a short visit to this huge island, its hard to advise. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast you're staying. The earthquake of 2006? To get there you have to follow the Akoni Pule Highway (highway 270) until it ends ends 8 miles east of the town of Hawi at the Pololu Valley lookout. All the things Chi-Dave mentioned are great, and Hawi town is a great stop. The Hapuna Prince handled it well - safety was absolutely their first thing. I thought it was more so on w/e's. It is a gorgeous beach (I've stayed there a few times pre-earthquake). Gorgeous spot to sightsee. One of the best hikes my husband and I did while on the big Island. With a population of less than 75,000, Kauai is truly a small-town island, littered with open space, protected preserves, and old plantation history. There are very, very few public access parking spots at Mauna Kea. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. For more information, please see our The trip down the road should never be attempted in a normal car, only four-wheel drive is allowed. Steep and moments with loose rocks, but so worth it! In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. We spent the last day on the Big Island valley hopping and checking out a remote cabin on a private beach. The shoreline along Waipio Valley and Pololu Valley can make for dangerous swimming conditions, including a dangerous shorebreak and strong current. Powered by Invision Community. Best boogie boarding, body surfing beaches. Waiulili Falls is the second of the ocean-bound waterfalls accessible via the sacred Waipi'o Valley (the other being Kaluahine Falls). The earthquake of 2006? Oh, so th ehike into Waipio is a serious grade and then to the beach, not sure exactly how long to allow, but its kind of a big deal hike. Several of the images in this guide have been provided by Georgios Tsiminis (Instagram, Flickr). Pololu valley is at the northern tip and part of the oldest (of 5) volcanoes that make up the Big Island of Hawaii. by kenji SAITO on June 21, 2021. Image credit: hawaiivolcanovacations. Which one would be better to do and why. 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. Waipi'o Valley Road is a county road that used to be treated mostly just like any other road, despite being the steepest road in the USA. Entrance is free but parking is limited to 5 spots so it's all street parking. I also like the North (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? How long of a stay at Pololu do you think is adequate. This is not the actual address of the spot, but it wouldn't let me enter the correct spot since there really isn't an address. Small parking lot at end of the road at trailhead. Pololu valley is located at the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Going to either would be a great way to spend a day! Truly a MUST do if youre on the big island. We went to the big island during our honeymoon. Waipio is longer and harder but on a road. Not to say Waipio isn't great because it is, but there's something truly special about Pololu and feels more secluded with no cars down there Alarmed-Marketing616 2 yr. ago Loved it.very tranquil when I was there this morningthank you for the advice! The Hiilawe falls (center left) are visible from many points in the valley. Image credit: Georgios Tsiminis. The water that carved out these valleys is also the reason why these valleys were a popular place to live for the native Hawaiians: a constant supply of water is essential to grow culturally significant crops such as Taro. Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). Its steep but not overly strenuous and you will be rewarded with lovely vistas. Where can I find good live Hawaiian or local music and/or hula? Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Yeah, it was, interesting I had been through the Northridge 'quake in SoCa, too, with some other lesser quakes. As you approach the Pololu Valley Lookout, you'll start to see the grand ocean views even as you're driving. It's popular so there are almost always other people there. Where to stay on the west side; Kona districts vs. Kohala districts. [deleted] 2 yr. ago Either way make sure you're respectful. From scenic overlook, hike down steep rocky trail to beautiful black sand and rocky beach with views of the Hamakua coast. Afternoon trip was good, with shade on the way back up. Great views. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. 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. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park near Halemaumau Crater. Thank you Amy! It was raining the day we hiked. Pololu is the northwestern most of those valleys. It is possible you will encounter people from the Pololu Valley Steward Program at the lookout. The town of Honokaa near Waipio is worth a stop if you go to Waipio - I think Hawi has more character, but Honokaa is an interesting town as well. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. And once at the beach below, it's anything but crowded. The trail climbs the eastern ridge of Pololu through a series of muddy and often slippery switchbacks and leads to a wooden bench that overlooks the Honokane Nui Valley and part of the Honokane Iki Valley. Can anyone confirm the closure. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. Image credit: Georgios Tsiminis. Short and fairly steep trail with beautiful views and a black sand and stone beach at the bottom. Manageable trail for anyone reasonably fit, though it's definitely uneven and required careful footing in places. We have also gone down for a horse back ride, and I have twice hiked down, across the beach and up the other side about half way. We were incredibly disappointed. The leeward side of the Kohala volcano is one of the best places on the Big Island to see whales from the shore. 2. I've stayed at both hotels, both good beaches. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Polol Valley is another one of the seven valleys along Kohala volcano that's been sculpted by thousands of years of erosion. Thanks for all of your help! I think somebody should figure out who these people are that are blocking the Awini Trail. Image credit: Georgios Tsiminis. Public parking spaces are limited there, so I think your best chances of getting one are on the way there. The Pololu Valley Lookout gives a spectacular view over the cliffs of the Kohala volcano. Locals will take those spots fast first thing in the morning, then leave later. There was no need for concern. The Waipio Valley Road is a 25% grade paved road that descends 900 feet in only one mile. Not much of a hike, just a beautiful walk to the rocky beach (no swimming). To get here, take Hwy 270 to Mile Marker 28. While it may seem crowded with (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The reason Im giving this such a low rating is because you literally can not do anything but walk up and down the hill. We just went to the Wai'pio valley lookout but did not do any of the tours because we didn't book anything in advance and the next tour was 2 hours away. What are some good splurge or special occasion restaurants on the Big Island? 10/10 would do again. kam hotel and want to go to Pololu, the farthest point than work our way back stopping at places that interest us, hopefully beach. If you are visiting in the winter months (from ~December to ~March) this is a great place to try and see humpback whales. The parking is just along the road because the parking lot is 10 minute parking only. I would recommend it. 270 and gawk at the beauty of the rugged northern . We have never been to HI an you are really helping us out. 1. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-112302825', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pololu Valley Lookout. Waipi'o (or Waipio) Valley is named after the meandering Wailoa Stream that runs through the valley ( wai-pio means curved water in the Hawaiian language) and is about one mile wide and six miles deep. Waipio and Pololu are at either end of a series of valleys Waipio overlook has more 'wow factor' for the view, but Pololu has some great views as well. Any thoughts/suggestions on whether we should skip Wai'pio (but we plan to go to the lookout) or not? Locals and tourists alike were free to drive or walk the road (although it was marked as a 4x4 only road). If you are driving to points west from Hilo, then swinging by Waipio makes sense. Don't wear sandals, Crocs, flip-flops, Birkenstocks, etc. Answer 1 of 2: We are traveling to the BI next week - very excited! Why not to use nicknames or English translations, Trip Reports! The black sand beach at the valley floor looks like a beach at the end of the world. 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). Because the valley is at the end of the road you will pass a few cool places and things to do that make it easy to make visiting Pololu valley part of a half or whole day road trip. Honopue. It's a magical place. Pololu valley is at the northern tip and part of the oldest (of 5) volcanoes that make up the Big Island of Hawaii. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! 8-6 is a good length of time you would be able to get back to Kailua Kona with a comfortable amount of time to spare, and if you have an extra hour there, you can wander around the area near the port. If you want a different perspective on your way back, instead of going back along the coast, go up over (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? But, which do you all prefer? 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. Last time I was there, he kept a "tick" list and wouldn't let anyone through once he ticked off enough cars to take up the public access parking. If I could only choose one, which would you recommend? Plolu means "long spear" and the name evokes the shape of the valley, whereas the mouth of Waipio is broad, almost a mile wide. was not the summit of mount Everest as shown in this (alternative?) The steady supply disappeared in 1905 when the Kohala Ditch network was completed. Where can I can find a good church service with some local flavor? The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Aerial overview of Waipio Valley. Pololu Valley Beach Hike. Please stay on the public road when hiking in Waipio valley. The beach itself is made out of a mix of black sand and large boulders. Right around 400 feet. You can find a more concise description of this hike at the bigislandhikes website. Some, if not all, car rental companies here on the Big Island explicitly mention in the rental agreement that it is not permitted to drive your rental car down into Waipio valley. The beach is split in two by the river coming out of the valley, and depending on the amount of water it can be difficult to cross. Once down at the bottom, it's a nice walk parallel to the beach at Pololu (we haven't hiked down Waipio, but I think it's the same there however, there's a creek at the bottom of Waipio that could be difficult to cross if the water is high.). Syr101 - Just a note that there aren't any food concessions at the beaches so bring some food or pick up some along the way if you're planning to eat at the beach. You can see the steep Waipio Valley access road, the black sand beach, and taro fields. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-93725113', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hilo and Akaka Falls during our road trip day. I've read that the best way into Wai'pio Valley is a wagon or horse tour, but that it is ok to hike into. Really good bodysurfing here. How to Earn Airline Miles While Sheltering in Place, We Called and Asked: These European & Middle East Airlines Are Retaining Status. These falls only exist when it is raining a LOT. Waipio is a short side trip along the Hamakua Coast, so that can work, if youre only going to the overlook. Park your car in the small parking lot that is literally at the . Tom Hasslinger/Civil Beat/2021 "The community all recognizes, even the ones that were opposed to. Savor the Black Sand Beach. Waipio will give you a much better workout on the hike back up. I've read that the best way into Wai'pio Valley is a wagon or horse tour, but that it is ok to hike into. Pololu Valley Lookout is at the end of Hwy 270. Forgot to mention - when you're on the #270, if skies are clear you'll be able to see Maui wonderful views! 8am-6pm. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-93723305', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kohala Mountains, then hike down to Pololu Valley along the beach, then back up for dinner in Hawi, and maybe depending on time of year back around to one of the South Kohala area beaches for sundown. Waipio Valley is basically the one end of this Hilo Hamakua Heritage Coast, with the town of Hilo being the other end! Get our brand-new trip planning series delivered directly to your inbox - for FREE (more info). Before Europeans arrived, the valley was decorated with taro patches, but there's not much of that left. more, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Island of Hawaii, Get answers to your questions about Island of Hawaii. Pololu Valley Trail, from the lookout down to the valley takes less than 30 mins to walk. Announcing Our 2023 Cruisers' Choice Award Winners! 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. 83 reviews of Pololu Valley Lookout "PLEASE READ! Answer 1 of 2: We are traveling to the BI next week - very excited! A lush tropical forest surrounded by almost 500 ft high cliffs and fronted by an ocean that more often than not has high surf and rough waves. What is good reef etiquette? In part though it depends where you are starting your trip from. I am thankful that this sacred place of the Hawaiian ancestors is being shared with visitors. (read more about the geological history of Kohala). Beautiful spot to meditate if you go early (8 am) to avoid crowds. To get down to the valley floor you must either be a Big Island resident and have your own 4WD car, or be willing to pay for a tour. Pololu is a relatively easy walk down and up for the healthy, albeit with some challenging footing. Image credit: Georgios Tsiminis. My husband and I will be staying on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. At the King Kam, you shouldn't have too much trouble heading north on #19 - same with coming back. The town of Hawi (on the way to Pololu) is good for a lunch or ice cream stop. Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. Camping permits for the valley have been suspended and hiking trails are closed but the County is working on ways to restore public access as safety consideration allow it. Black sand, trees down to the water and huge waves barreling onto the beach make for an experience that is hard to describe. Better to go down to the next spot at Hapuna State Park. The report outlines an immediate need to mitigate rockfall and address slope instability and erosion for everyones safety. The road down to Waipio valley is one of the steepest roads on the island and quite a ride! Go slow going down. This valley is one of the most beautiful and secluded places to go to for a hike on the Big Island. Trail is a perfect hike. The only people who have any business in the water might be experienced surfers when surf conditions are just right. Waipio and Pololu are at either end of a series of valleys Waipio overlook has more 'wow factor' for the view, but Pololu has some great views as well. Dont worry, there is plenty of time on the beach to take a breather! Waipio valley was home to old Hawaiian kings and once upon a time was densely populated. Waipio (or Waipio) Valley is named after the meandering Wailoa Stream that runs through the valley (wai-pio means curved water in the Hawaiian language) and is about one mile wide and six miles deep. With a population of less than 75,000, Kauai is truly a small-town island, littered with open space, protected preserves, and old plantation history. Hiking shoes encouraged, but not impossible in tennis shoes. When you backtrack on Hwy 270 from Pololu, you can take Hwy 250 (from Hawi) which is a very interesting drive, you ascend up to 3,600 feet so you get great views of the coast and island, gives you a real feel for its size. I've stayed at both hotels, both good beaches. Behind the beach you can find large dunes and ironwood trees that protect the valley from floodwaters. There are stunning views of the coast. I think those days are past me now, though the last time I did it I was 70. Definitely Pololu, and definitely hike down to the beach, its beautiful from above but awesome when your down at sea level. The simplest is driving to the lookout for the views, but you can also make a small (but steep) hike to the valley floor to check out the beach. Once down at the bottom, it's a nice walk parallel to the beach at Pololu (we haven't hiked down Waipio, but I think it's the same there however, there's a creek at the bottom of Waipio that could be difficult to cross if the water is high.). Elevation Gain: 300'. At the bottom of the steep road turn left to explore inlands, where banana and avocado trees line the road leading into the valley. Great for first-time visitors. Limited parking at the top but it doesnt seem like many people go there. Some nice stores with local art work there as well. If you're staying a bit further north in one of the Waikoloa resorts on the Kohala coast, it's a bit closer and might take around an hour. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-93713130', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');cars at the top (and so is Waipio), a lot of people don't hike down. Meaning 'long spear' in Hawaiian, the Pololu Valley was formed by millennia of slow erosion, wind, and rain. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-112271019', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Big Island tourist site (e.g. 4. Some bitched and moaned about not being able to use the elevator, not being able to get right back to the rooms (they checked every one of them for issues like things fallen off walls, TVs fallen down, cracks), stuff like that. For Pololu, 1 to 1.5 hours should do it, depending on how much time you want to spend walking along the beach - the path that parallels the beach is through a forest that's 'magical' here's a photo where you can see the path on the left side. This is one of my favorite hikes on the big island. Awesome. Pololu Valley, in contrast, is visited less frequently, and most visitors don't even know that you can hike down to the beach from the lookout point. Views are Dont post pictures please! You will lose sight of the waterfalls but fear not and persist, for standing next to Kaluahine Falls is an experience somewhere between calm ecstasy and utter relaxation. Better to go down to the next spot at Hapuna State Park. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. That must have been quite the experience! Same, Pololu valley all the way. for parking (not a deal breaker if you can't get a spot at MK, then worth paying at Hapuna and/or Waialea.). Turbulent surf crashing on the black sands of the valley's rocky beach and shoreline. Its an incredibly sacred place so you always want to be sure that youre respectful of what theyre asking (dont cross the lake at the bottom, leave certain plants alone, etc). for parking (not a deal breaker if you can't get a spot at MK, then worth paying at Hapuna and/or Waialea.). Pololu is a relatively easy walk down and up for the healthy, albeit with some challenging footing. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The waterfalls that you can see in the final scenes are the Kaluahine Falls which you can only see on rainy days from the ocean or the valley floor.

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