Glow, horses. If you are trying to decide where to hike, Waipio Valley or here, this hike is MUCH easier. UTAH The steady supply disappeared in 1905 when the Kohala Ditch network was completed. 18. Before you know it, you will have made it to the Pololu Valley floor. Waipi'o valley is the most southern valley that carved into the Kohala volcano, where Pololu valley is at the north side of this cliff section. March 3, 2023. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. It was sprinkling and gusting when I first arrived at the lookout, but luckily the wind did calm down for me to be able to enjoy the view and grab some photos. of the beach with the impressive 500 foot cliffs make for a fantastic photo We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. 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. 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. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. Thanks for the suggestion PlanetR. It's about an hour and a half drive from Kona, and an hour and ten minutes from Hilo. In Hawaii, respecting the land is a big thing in Hawaiian culture. Waipio Valley is on the northern peninsula of the Big Island. 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. This series consists of the following valleys: Water has eroded 7 deep valleys into the windward side of the Kohala Volcano of the Big Island. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. Encouraging women to try adventurous travel. Absolutely beautiful. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. The rest of the gulches follow in order from: Parking is From there you can look back into the valley seeing waterfalls unseen from other side. The sacred Waipio Valley was once the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, and is an important site for Hawaiian history and culture. I have wondered if the Awini Trail connects the the . You'll most likely have to park along the street and walk to the viewpoint/start of the trail. 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). Youre young and strong so youll probably finish in 2 hours. If you hike- especially after rainy season- wear waterproof sneakers. Living on the Big Island and traveling regularly to the neighbor islands, Noel and team actively search and share the latest information and updates to Hawaii travel, food, adventure and various lifestyle activities on the islands for your planning and vacation. One switchback is a particularly good spot for a photo. 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. Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter, Phantom 4 Drone footage of Pololu Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii, Pro tip (for the early birds): The Pololu Lookout is a, This is a gorgeous walk with stunning views and one of our. Previously, earthquake damage had closed the Pololu Valley trail, but it is once again open - and it is a hike that you must do! Bummer! It is unclear if the trail continues. 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. It is drier than Waipio and lacks waterfalls, but it is lovely in its own way. Pololu Valley is home to one of the many black sand beaches on the Big Island. Can these both be done on the same day? Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. 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. Looks good for potentially running also. SOUTH DAKOTA The cliffs are also known to have landslides as the coast continues its process of erosion. 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. My favorite spot on the island so majorly bummed. Amazing is an understatement. Should be great! by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. Waipi'o valley Hike: A 6.5 mile round trip of medium difficulty. The ascent on both ends of this hike will test your cardiovascular system but are well worth it. Island of Hawaii Tourism Island of Hawaii Hotels Island of Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Island of Hawaii Holiday Rentals Island of Hawaii Packages 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 The Pololu Trail Steward program is a recent initiative in which one or more local stewards are present at the Pololu Valley trailhead to inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. Thats because its kind of in the far north of the Big Island, and a spot where not many other things are located. Duration: 10 to 11 hours. 270 and gawk at the beauty of the rugged northern Kohala coastline from the Polol Overlook. You can follow this trail over the valley floor and up the other side to the next valley: Honokane Nui. Paula Dobbyn/Civil Beat/2022 . Bring a windbreaker or rain jacket just in case. Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. You can see this now as a series of 7 valleys (a valley has a flood plane at the valley floor) of which Polol Valley is the most northern one. Bring a flashlight. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa'au. There are parking spots directly next to the trailhead, but I recommend parking a bit further up the street because the pedestrian flow around this area is almost constant. Its a rewarding view that allows you to get away from the crowds that do the Pololu Valley Hike. I recommend parking up the street slightly so that it is easy to turn around and leave at the end of your hike. In less than a mile hike, you'll be treated to some of the best views of sheer cliffs and lush rolling valley hills. Walking back up the road at the end was a bit tough just due to the steep incline. Must cross water to go up the other side though. Easy to moderate. Most people visit just day camp on the valley floor into the late hours. My posts got a little jumb, My Rogue River fashion: layers of sunscreen, wide-, Tools to Plan a Sensational Trip for Yourself. On Dec 7, a lava boat was spotted floating down channel. 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. Waipi'o Valley hike distance: The round trip hike from the lookout parking lot to the black sand beach and back is just over 3 miles. You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipio Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. Pololu Valley hike: This is a 2.5 miles round trip and is pretty easy. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. Arriving at 8:30 am, I was a bit bummed at how busy it was already. 1:00-2:00: Drive to Waimea. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. 6.12 km. Drive down the Akone Pule highway 270 and past the small town of Hawi. Keokea beach park is a quiet beach park with a shower and picnic tables close to Hawi and Pololu Valley. By doing the hike, youll get better views of the black sand beach as youre going down, and its a nice scenic coastal 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hiking in the Waipio Valley is amazing. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. EVERGLADES FL Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! 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. Hike Pololu Valley Big Island, Hawaii. You Share More sharing options. Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. Head east on the Akoni Pule Highway and drive to the end of the road before parking at the Pololu Valley Overlook where the trail begins. Pololu Valley Beach (Big Island) Pololu Valley Beach is considered a hidden gem on Hawaii Island. SLEEPING BEAR DUNES MI 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. Please have a chat with them when you arrive to learn more about the area and treat them kindly. P.O Box 4849 TRAIL CONDITIONS. just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and days, it is muddy and extremely slippery, Look to It is wide enough for both uphill and downhill traffic to the bottom but give some clearance to people struggling uphill. 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. Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. Please share your thoughts and comments below. I have done both several times. Between 250.000 and 300.000 years ago the Kohala volcano experienced a truly massive landslide in which a part of the volcano fell into the ocean. They get to share Polols great historical and cultural values, along with the and significance the area has for those living in and visiting Kohala. When you're ready, climb 300' back to the trailhead. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. --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. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Big Island Activities If you would like to learn more about living here, be sure to check out my Moving To Hawaii Resources for Hawaii Island. No . Start early - like 730-8 in morning. Answer 1 of 11: What is the best way to see Polulu Valley and Waipio Valley? It only takes about 30 minutes to hike down to the valley from the scenic lookout. WIND CAVE SD There is only one way inby foot on the Muliwai Trail, a nine-mile backpacking trek ascending the north face of Waipio via a series of steep switchbacks (visible from the Waipio Valley Lookout) and winding through miles of plateau gulches and forests before descending treacherous switchbacks on Waimanu's south face to the valley floor. From there its s another 8 miles until you hit the end at the Pololu Valley Look out point. Hard on the way up, but totally worth it., starts with a decline up to the beach. The early settlers grew taro farms in the area and is still grown to process poi a staple root plant eaten by locals on the island. Thanks for visiting This Hawaii life and checking out this post on a Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. Pololu is the northwestern most of those valleys. Check out all the fun details of this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. 4 Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall. Unfortunately, rain washed out the trail, and it no longer connects! We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Also, home to some unique art galleries, boutiques and restaurants located in old plantation style buildings, you can easily spend a few hours exploring and eating your way through town. . Both lookouts are crowded, AmyNoelle, and finding a parking spot can be an initial annoyance. 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. GULF ISLANDS FL Michele Falzone/Getty Images. Intermediate. There is a bench at the end of the trail overlooking the Honokane Nui Valley. Pololu Valley is an easy drive from Highway 270 through idyllic towns like Hawaii and Kapaau. Fun stuff. Yay, it worked! Saw wild horses at the bottom of the trail. All of the land upriver is privately owned. Bryan C. Sacramento, CA. And you are at the Pololu Valley lookout! 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. picture taking. 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. STOP OVERPACKING for your trip and pack just the right amount! The uphill is good and strenuous, but the first mile of the hike (the steep part) is paved and rough on your knees. Josiane St Pierre / Getty Images. 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 were devastated to hear that this access road may remain closed until 2025! syr101 . Unfortunately, only the beach in this valley is public. Looking into Waimanu Valley, which was the next valley over from Waipi'o Valley. There is room for about 10 cars at the end of the road in a parking area that fills up quickly, especially on weekends. The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead. MAMMOTH CAVE KY You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. where Julie and I were fortunate enough to see flowing lava While Waipi'o Valley was the easternmost of the valleys in the Kohala Mountains in northeast Big Island, Pololu Valley was the westernmost of these valleys. Pololu Valley was formed over 250,000 to 300,000 years ago when the Kohala Volcano experienced a huge collapse and landslide with a large part falling into the ocean and creating this massive gulch and valley that we see today. Almost immediately upon climbing, it began to rain. Youll need to relax bc youll be on edge driving - esp if its your first time. There is limited parking space available at the lookout point with minimal space to turn around so it is possible you need to turn around and park your car on the shoulder of the road and then walk back a few minutes to the valley entrance. Slick when wet. 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. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. But in 1946, the most devastating tsunami in Hawaii's history swept great waves far back into the valley. For something a bit different, take a look at Kalopa State Park. Kamehameha stature here for more information. It then passes through 12 smaller gulches on a . I took a couple of timelapse videos and could see the light move around on the valley walls with the clouds. By doing the hike, you . ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. All Rights Reserved. If you enjoyed the images and post, could you please share it with any of the social media buttons located around the post. He went on our last day, we were leaving on a red eye and I decided not to do it. The spectacular views of the valley and the steep cliffs that end in the ocean are worth a trip on their own, but the real thing to do here is hiking to the black sand beach at the valley floor! In this video, we'll take you on a journey to the Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii. 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. Over all its 25% grade. Island of Hawaii. The scenery is breath-taking with the rough ocean waves crashing against the sea cliffs and black sand beach on one side, and the densely forrested valley on the other. Re crowding at over look, much more at Waipio as area of over look is much bigger, not so much at Polulu. 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. At the coast there is a beautiful black sand beach constantly pounded by the Pacific Ocean waves. If you feel like having a very good workout this is the hike for you! Want to report conditions for this trail? 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. Please treatt hem with aloha and follow their directions. 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. 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. Image adapted from source (by Eric Tessmer). and is the oldest of 5 volcanoes that make up the Big Island. It is very wide, comforting during the Pandemic to maintain some space between you and other hikers. Pololu is amazingly breathtaking, but the hike is almost straight down. This is a relatively short hike to the bottom and nice to explore the slowly rambling stream that ends at the ocean or just amble from one end of the black sand beach to the cliffs on the other side and maybe do a climb to another gorge beyond if you feel challenged to do more exploring. I did this once alone, probably took 4 hours. 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. Don't miss these. Lava boats can form when portions of the cone or lava channel break away & are rafted downstream. The passing clouds threaten rain but also provide dynamic skies in your photos. And if it becomes a big problem, thats when there may even start to be more serious talks about limiting visitors to visit such places like Pololu Valley. There was a bit of muddy spots on the flat part of the road/trail, but easily navigable. The beach itself is made out of a mix of black sand and large boulders. Honokane Nui was a victim of the October 2006 earthquake, and the trail into the valley was reportedly destroyed. Youll probably also notice some nice campsites, but camping here is illegal. Remnants from this landslide can still be found under water 81 miles (130 km) from the current coastline. Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. Book your tickets online for Pololu Valley Lookout, Island of Hawaii: See 1,143 reviews, articles, and 1,562 photos of Pololu Valley Lookout, ranked No.18 on Tripadvisor among 501 attractions in Island of Hawaii. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. With steady warm temps year round (depending on where you are in Hawaii) it'd be a crime to not get outside! 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. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. Otherwise, you can park along the side of the road before that dead end parking lot too. The trail down into the valley is a section of the old government road to wini. It is still a gorgeous, worthy hike even if you are heading down to the beach. Tagged with: waipio, waipi'o . The vegetation is so thick that you do not get a view of the ocean. The Pololu Ditch Trail into the valley leading to Kapoloa Falls was closed due to the Kona earthquake in October 2006. Very steep. If youre interested in Pololu Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: ROAD TRIP AMERICA The trailhead begins at the end of the road. So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . 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. Lots of wildlife near the trail. After taking more photos with the reflection of the still water, I began the climb up to the trailhead. I ran out of water. Wild horses, stray dog that followed us at the hip and protected us, amazing views, a river crossing, wild fruit along the way (pomelo). Locals only. The hike Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! GRAND TETON WY It means its yet another quieter part of the Big Island, and it means its yet another nice scenic drive getting there! 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 heiaus and historical parks to explore along the way. 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. May 11, 2018 Alice Kao. Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. Behind the beach you can find large dunes and ironwood trees that protect the valley from floodwaters. The black sand beach at Pololu Valley can be rocky if a storm has washed away the black sand. MICHIGAN Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Camping is not allowed at Pololu since it is on private land and permits only issued for specific research studies. Quan forgot her jacket upon checking out of Waimea Country Lodge. BRYCE CANYON UT done with your hiking adventure, check out all these other fun things to The Pololu Valley floor is beautiful with a river, campgrounds, etc. IDAHO The trail down to the beach drops 400 feet in 20 minutes of hikingbe warned, the hike up is difficult for those not in good physical shape and the hike down should not be attempted if you have doubts about being able to hike back up. The commissions help support Moderately Adventurous stay alive and kicking. MUD!! The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. He thought I would like it, so next trip for sure! The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) And then basically you will be driving to a dead end. 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. HAWAII VOLCANOES HI The view of the valley from the top, surrounded by cliffs up to 2,000 feet high, is already awe-inspiring. Good to know: there are no public restrooms at the lookout or down in the valley. Take your time at the lookout, and I bet you will have some time alone. Id love to hear what you thought or if you enjoyed the Waipio valley as much as Pololu. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. Moderately Adventurous participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase an item linked on this site. However, as it heads inland, you will get a peek at the Pololu Valley below. the Kamehameha statue in Kapaau at the Kohala civic center sits the original There also are some pretty cool things to do close to Pololu valley to make your visit into a small road trip. The ornamental . How to get there? 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. 84. Hood Moonlit Snowshoe Tour w/ Rare Earth Adventures, Product Review Recreating Liz Robbins Outfit with Modern Royal Robbins Clothing, Product Review Gregory Maya 10 Hiking Backpack, Product Review Kuhl Travel Pants: FreeFlex Move & Kultivtr Crop, Purple leggings while I got these years ago, here are a few lilac tights I found as of August 2022: These on. 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. downhill on the trail is rocky and wide with some nice spots for views and Come prepared! Most references to the Polol Valley trail refer to this trail, which ends where the beach meets the valley floor. we didn't end up going all the way. Coming back I knew I wanted to visit the Kohala area again, but this time somewhere different. I found this area to be relatively flat and dry. Only local residents are permitted to go farther along the road. Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. The crossing might be dry. If you want to drive instead of hiking down, you'll need to . 4. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. Or else you can take a 4x4 down and up the same road. Theres also a trail that starts from the Pololu Valley lookout that goes down to sea level and makes for a great coastal hike. Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley. Insanely popular trail the parking area was already busy by 8:30 am. Pololu valley is at the northern tip and part of the oldest (of 5) volcanoes that make up the Big Island of Hawaii. (driving directions using google maps). 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. The trailhead has no services at all no water, no restrooms, and no cell service. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88589471', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kohala and the Pololu Valley. leave, so there is a lot of turnover for the parking spots. Once you get so sad! If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed "No Parking" signs. Somewhere between .75 and 1 mile. JEWEL CAVE SD, HAWAII TRAVEL PLANNING LANAI The dirt and root trail can be steep in places, but the various views of the valley along the way make even part of the walk worth it.