Looks good for potentially running also. The road eventually turns into a trail at Waipio Beach. I have done both several times. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa'au. , each with hip pockets for easier access to small items. Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Views 4 Incredible Spots to Watch a Sunrise on the Big Island Big Island vs Maui - Which is the Better Vacation? Take that trail up until you reach edge across from Waipio lookout on other side. Instead, locals would like you to know about Keokea Beach Park where there are bathrooms. Definitely worth walking up the other side. The strenuous Z Trail can access this wild valley, otherwise, it was required a chopper tour to see by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. Right Colleen, I have read about the further hike across Pololu but forgot. 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 or Pololu Valley for hiking? - Island of Hawaii Forum And then basically you will be driving to a dead end. 18. Youre young and strong so youll probably finish in 2 hours. The Hawaii Black Sand Beaches (Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Molokai) The views from the ridge are stunning into Honokane Iki and the trail leading downhill is relatively easy but note that the property on the valley floor is entirely private property and access is not permited (unless you know the owner) on the valley floor unless you can find the trail beyond which is not feasible at the moment because of over grown conditions. The Big Island has several great hikes, such as the Pololu Valley hike and the Waipio Valley hike, which offer stunning views of the coastline and valleys. Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. It's also the northernmost valley of the same chain that includes Waipi'o Valley, which was shown on the first trip. At the Pololu Valley floor, you will see a stream with large trees. . Be careful when it rains, very slick. 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. I can't seem to remember now which of the longer hikes we did, maybe Akaka Falls? All of the land upriver is privately owned. Waiulili Falls - Ocean-Bound Waterfall by Waipi'o Valley After hiking Waipio Valley, it was about an hour and 20 minute drive to the . Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. Waipi'o Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. Continue to cliffs, a bit inland you will find a trail. Youll probably also notice some nice campsites, but camping here is illegal. The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) Tried to hike to waterfall but it crosses into private property and couldnt get to it. of the beach with the impressive 500 foot cliffs make for a fantastic photo At one time the valley had churches, restaurants, and schools as well as a hotel, post office, and jail. 02:09. All Rights Reserved. Bryan C. Sacramento, CA. Cross Waipi'o Beach and visit Muliwai Trail Overlook on a 4.88-mile round trip hike that has climbs on each side of the valley that total 1,300 feet of elevation gain. Find climbing partners in Oceania and Pacific Islands. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Try to respect nature and pack out all trash (as per usual). The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead. NORTH DAKOTA You have to turn around. I'd suggest taking the Waipio Valley Shuttle if you have young kids in tow. Couple that with the recent closure of the access road to the similarly popular Waipio Valley, and the crowds are growing. 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. So please, for everyones sake, locals and future Hawaii visitors alike, avoid those bushes! Interested? just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and MAHALO! We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. 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. This river is fed by agricultural runoff, so carefully consider how you treat this water before drinking. That is why only a part of the hike is described here. So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . Unfortunately, rain washed out the trail . syr101 . Hike: Start at the Polol Valley overlook and find the trailhead for the Awini Trail marked by an extensive array of danger signs. And so, on a January morning earlier this year, trail shoes, blister cream, extra bandages, water bottles and emergency One-Ton Chips from Hilo's Maebo Noodle Factory in tow, we set out from the Pololu Valley lookout ready for anything nature chose to send our way on the hike to the valley floor. Sounds like Pololu is more about the journey and a shorter hike. Expect 1-1.5 miles of total hiking + beach exploring; more if you continue along Awini Trail, Hike down to beach is moderate to strenuous when hiking out, Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. 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. There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. The view from the third switchback of Z-Trail offers the most amazing view of Waipio Valley and is well worth the effort to reach. From there its s another 8 miles until you hit the end at the Pololu Valley Look out point. Turned out, all we needed was the water and chips. If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. If you feel like having a very good workout this is the hike for you! BADLANDS SD Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow If you choose to hike down, the trail has been fixed is a challenging going through two sets of ropes for rappeling down a mostly dirt and rock area, a gorgeous walk through native fan palms and surprising a stunning natural bamboo grove. If you take the time to drive all the way toPololu Valleyat the end of Highway 270, don't settle for the view from the overlook! Pololu is the northwestern most of those valleys. However, they are not easy to walk along! You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. If you're interested in Waipio Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: Pololu Valley hike Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. Pololu valley and waipio valley - Island of Hawaii Forum Must cross water to go up the other side though. Funny 1. Once at the bottom take the road to the right. By hiking, youll get better views of the beach down below, which is notable for being a black sand beach! This is a popular spot, so go on off times! The closest restrooms are at the Keokea Beach Park (10 minutes from the overlook) and just behind the King Kameha Statue which you will pass in Kapaau en-route to the overlook from Hawi. As we do for most places on the Big Island we recommend to visit Pololu Valley early in the day. done with your hiking adventure, check out all these other fun things to Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. The passing clouds threaten rain but also provide dynamic skies in your photos. It is possible you will encounter people from the Pololu Valley Steward Program at the lookout. POLOLU VALLEY TRAIL--BIG ISLAND - thehikinghi 1. This hike covers about 20 km, depending on how long you want to walk. The trail is located about a hundred feet from the shoreline with a small trail located with low lying ferns and on the eastern ridge of Polulu. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. There is a phenomenal view from the parking area, which is lovely for those who are not interested in the hike. 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. 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. In my very limited experience (twice at Waipio, three times at Pololu), I've actually found Waipio more crowded. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). A guy at the entrance said the trail is closed to hikers and cars until further notice. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! It is split by the sublime Waipi'o River. Unfortunately, as far as we know, you can no longer continue beyond this point. THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND This is probably one of the best angles to photograph the coast and the mouth of the valley. How long does it take to hike down to 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. Large pebbles and stones cover the beach, making a satisfying rattling sound when the waves pick them up. Your hike down to the beach was mostly facing the ocean, and your hike back to the parking lot will be more of facing the valley! The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. 6.12 km. Answer 1 of 11: Our current itinerary gives us one day to devote to hiking aside from what we will do in one day at VNP. Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley. During or after rains the trail can be slippery and because of the relatively steep average grade of the trail (13%) we rate the difficulty as moderate. The view of these lush valleys and cliffs into the ocean is stunning. Its steep, muddy, rocky and slippery. Also the water was too high for us to be able to cross without getting soaked above the knees so we missed the back half because we werent prepared. Hawaii's Waipio Valley closed indefinitely due to hazardous road - SFGATE The reviews here for both places suggest Pololu is also more crowded with tourists but I'm guessing they are just referring to the lookout as many of the reviews implied there are less people on the actual hiking trails past the scenic lookout. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Beyond the Lookout: Exploring the Big Island's Pololu Valley 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. The Awini trailhead can be found on the trail that runs above the beach. GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS TN NC Once I turned around, the journey back to the trailhead went surprisingly quick. We spent the last day on the Big Island valley hopping and checking out a remote cabin on a private beach. The Pololu Valley Lookout gives a spectacular view over the cliffs of the Kohala volcano. MAMMOTH CAVE KY Spotted yesterday at #MaunaLoa a lava boat rides the waves! We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. Josiane St Pierre / Getty Images. And you are at the Pololu Valley lookout! If you just didn't get enough of the Big Island's gorgeous valleys at Pololu, there is a hike that will take you over the next ridge and into Honokane Nui "big" Valley. Since you can find similar views at Pololu Valley, I'd save Waipi'o Valley for a time when the road has re-opened and it's safe to hike down to the valley. After you pass mile marker 28, youll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. It is wide enough for both uphill and downhill traffic to the bottom but give some clearance to people struggling uphill. Hiking east of Polol Valley is prohibited due to private property. On Dec 7, a lava boat was spotted floating down channel. If you start hiking later, the humidity will get you, and the crowds start at 9-10. Great hike. The road leading to the Pololu Valley Lookout has also been repaired - news release. I have wondered if the Awini Trail connects the the . More information at the Keokea beach park website. The beach is a lovely stretch of fine black sand rimmed with black lava rock and shockingly emerald green beach ground cover. Keokea beach park is a quiet beach park with a shower and picnic tables close to Hawi and Pololu Valley. the fertile Pololu . Black Sand Beaches in Hawaii, Everything You Need to Know Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. 84. If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed "No Parking" signs. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. GRAND TETON WY Let's Go Hawaii - Hiking the Pololu Valley leave, so there is a lot of turnover for the parking spots. I was slipping and sliding my way to the Honokane Nui Lookout. Pololu Valley is home to one of the many black sand beaches on the Big Island. The small town of Kapaau has How long is pololu Valley hike? Somewhere between .75 and 1 mile. The ornamental . Honokane Nui was a victim of the October 2006 earthquake, and the trail into the valley was reportedly destroyed. Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park, Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, Ka Desert - Mauna Iki Trail from Hilina Pali Road. Suggested Time: 60-90 minutes. 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. Theres also a trail that starts from the Pololu Valley lookout that goes down to sea level and makes for a great coastal hike. Hawaii's Awini Trail Is The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of - OnlyInYourState Streams in the valley are susceptible to flash flooding. Pololu is amazingly breathtaking, but the hike is almost straight down. Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. Required fields are marked *. Locals only. Hike Waipio Valley Big Island, Hawaii - Backcountrycow Later in 1780, the great King Kamehameha received the war god . Unfortunately, you won't find a short walk to this black sand beach in Hawaii. Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! I started walking down in order to get away from the people, but was surprised it really was a road, not a trail, and the vans driving down were a bit of a turn-off. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Waipio'o Valley Loop from Kukuihaele . Located along the North Kohala Coast, home to the island's most picturesque sandy beaches and incredible weather, the Pololu Valley was formed by the Kohala volcano hundreds of thousands of years ago. Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. Take the time to explore. He said there is a rock fall risk and it wont be opened again until repairs are completed. Stunning View of the Waipio Valley #shorts - YouTube Waipi'o is a mile wide at the coast and almost six miles deep. Pololu Valley Trail, from the lookout down to the valley takes . The sacred Waipio Valley was once the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, and is an important site for Hawaiian history and culture. The Pololu Valley and this coastline are particularly beautiful for the steep, greenery-covered valley walls and dramatic cliffs that fall into the ocean. We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. so sad! 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. Arriving at 8:30 am, I was a bit bummed at how busy it was already. There is no lifeguard. Big Island Hawaii VR Tour in 360 - VTHawaii.com Big Island hike to Pololu Valley - This Hawaii Life Nearly all streams in Hawaii pose the threat of bacteria. GRAND CANYON AZ Waipio Valley Beach & Muliwai Trail | Hawaii | Hikespeak.com By doing the hike, you . Trailhead: Take Hwy. During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. 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. (Although you will pass through the cute Hawi town.). What locals living near Pololu Valley would like you to know! It's still worth coming here to enjoy the view from the lookout, which I believe is the most beautiful vantage on the island! Good workout. If youre Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! Hawaii - Pololu Valley Hike to the Remote Honokane Nui Lookout. The total length of this hike is . Date first visited: . The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the . The Volcano Van - Big Island Volcano Tours, Holualoa Inn-Big Island Bed and Breakfast, Latitude: 20.20033933 The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. The vegetation is so thick that you do not get a view of the ocean. The uphill is good and strenuous, but the first mile of the hike (the steep part) is paved and rough on your knees. Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. It's a short but steep hike, and parking is . Otherwise, you can park along the side of the road before that dead end parking lot too. Polol Valley is the first valley from the right. MOUNT RUSHMORE SD Saw one fisherman on the beach, and four vehicles passed us while hiking the paved section. So be careful. Alternatively, the Waipio Valley Shuttle is the original 4-wheel drive tour of "the land of curving water" and is a mesmerizing and intimate look at the valley. 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. Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. Shop around on. This is about a 5 minute drive from the Pololu Valley trailhead. The Big Island of Hawaii is simply a treasure trove of beauty. If you like exercise you also opt for a hike to the next valley. Three Days in Waimanu Valley on Hawaii Island - Hawaii Magazine Hiking Distance: 1/2-1 mile round trip. The weather at Pololu Valley is variable from cloudy and windy to stormy clouds and rain and then to blue sky, and you can even get all three happening on the same day. We like to be doing actual hiking for about 2-3 hours plus the time to stop and take in the sights. Previously, earthquake damage had closed the Pololu Valley trail, but it is once again open - and it is a hike that you must do! Walking back up the road at the end was a bit tough just due to the steep incline. Pololu Valley is an easy drive from Highway 270 through idyllic towns like Hawaii and Kapa'au. Polulu Valley/Waipio Valley - Island of Hawaii Message Board - Tripadvisor The trail itself offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the valley and the black sand beach on the valley floor. POLOLU VALLEY - 278 Photos & 80 Reviews - Yelp The stretch between the Pololu valley lookout and the black sand beach is only the first part of a more extended trail. You climb over 750 feet with many switch backs for about one mile uphill. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. 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. This video and the associated comments explain all: "Happiness in intelligent people is the rarest thing I know." The Pololu Ditch Trail into the valley leading to Kapoloa Falls was closed due to the Kona earthquake in October 2006. I have done both several times. 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. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Waipio Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. Best Hikes Big Island - 12 Incredible Adventures - Tripster Travel Guide 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. The beach at the bottom is fantastic, with the valley river flowing into the ocean resulting in a nice shallow play area. Dont hike this trial - take a 4x4 down and up. and is the oldest of 5 volcanoes that make up the Big Island. I stopped by twice once because we were in the area around 3:00 pm and the other to start the hike at 8:30 am. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. Mahalo! The hike down to the bottom of the valley and to the beach is the same paved road the cars use. Hiking Down Into Pololu Valley, Big Island of Hawaii You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. You'll end up in Waimea, perfect place to have a beer (or whatever) and savor your day. WHAT TO WEAR SNORKELING There was an error submitting your subscription. It's about an hour and a half drive from Kona, and an hour and ten minutes from Hilo. We don't shy away from more aggressive hiking but can also enjoy something more laid back as well. In less than a mile hike, you'll be treated to some of the best views of sheer cliffs and lush rolling valley hills. 6:30-11:00: Hike into Pololu Valley. opportunity in the area. After taking more photos with the reflection of the still water, I began the climb up to the trailhead. NEW YORK I'm hoping to hike part of the Muliwai Trail in May. But in 1946, the most devastating tsunami in Hawaii's history swept great waves far back into the valley. Image adapted from source (by Eric Tessmer). Beautiful place. Followers 1. You can also park By Tiphany Myers. Did not make it to the top; Ill be back! Remnants from this landslide can still be found under water 81 miles (130 km) from the current coastline. It is drier than Waipio and lacks waterfalls, but it is lovely in its own way. 3. There are several levels of visiting Pololu valley. Bummer, this trail is closed. Depending on recent rains and time of year it can be relatively low or quite high. The cliffs of the Kohala coastline were formed during a catastrophic landslide between 250.000 and 300.000 years ago during which a large part of the volcano slipped into the ocean. POLOLU VALLEY Hike to Pololu Valley beach OR just see the lookout? I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast youre staying. There is often a possibility of rain at any moment. Going Beyond Polulu Valley-Hard Hike On Hawaii Island JEWEL CAVE SD, HAWAII TRAVEL PLANNING 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. The Waipio Valley hike is one of the most beautiful and magical hiking spots on the Big Island. Check out the other things I did on the Island of Hawaii: Have you done the Pololu Valley Hike or the Waipio Valley Hike? Not only is Pololu valley scenic as an overlook at the end of road, but the hike and views going downhill, the walk across the gorgeous black sand beach is a wonderful experience. Hike down on broken paved road. Want to report conditions for this trail? There also are some pretty cool things to do close to Pololu valley to make your visit into a small road trip. Cool 2. There is a bench at the end of the trail overlooking the Honokane Nui Valley. But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! Or else you can take a 4x4 down and up the same road. by kenji SAITO on June 21, 2021. I haven't yet hiked into the valley, only walked part of the way down the road. Come prepared! The cliffs of Pololu and valley are unspoiled and have been natural until the first arrival of humans into the valley around the 15th Century.
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