I have read about the hike / walk to. GULF ISLANDS FL MAUI Youll find hiking up the Maliwai uncrowded. 5. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa'au. Drive down the Akone Pule highway 270 and past the small town of Hawi. On my trips to the Big Island of Hawaii I have had the opportunity to hike down into both Pololu and Waipio Valleys and up the trails on the far rims towards Honopue and Waimanu Valleys respectively. Once at the bottom take the road to the right. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. It is still a gorgeous, worthy hike even if you are heading down to the beach. This is one of the most adventurous and beautiful hikes we have done. Waipio Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. Hiking on the Big Island Maluhia Hale at Hualalai Waipi'o Valley hike elevation: The elevation gain is approximately 975 feet on the steepest road . Paula Dobbyn/Civil Beat/2022 . How Hard Is The Pololu Valley Lookout Hike - BikeHike If you feel challenged, you can even go beyond to the other valleys beyond Pololu on a day trip or overnight stay. What locals living near Pololu Valley would like you to know! However, rough surf and the occasional appearance of Portuguese Man-o-wars make it not the ideal beach for swimming. Hike Waipio Valley Big Island, Hawaii - Backcountrycow Streams in the valley are susceptible to flash flooding. At one time the valley had churches, restaurants, and schools as well as a hotel, post office, and jail. Next time with two others and we brought plenty of water and took about 3 hours. So I guess I do believe in miracles. Head out to the rocky beach for a view of the ocean and rugged coastline. There is a bench at the end of the trail overlooking the Honokane Nui Valley. I have wondered if the Awini Trail connects the the Northeast Coast together or is it a jungle bushwack beyond the above mentioned valleys making a connection between the roads at either end a near impossibility? Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. Please try again. With clouds swirling overhead for the duration of my hike, it was bound to happen. This Stunning Big Island Valley Is Drawing Bigger Crowds And It is possible you will encounter people from the Pololu Valley Steward Program at the lookout. 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. 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. Island of Hawaii. Wai'po Valley Road is also part of the trail route, and it is also closed to pedestrian traffic. People are starting the hike, ending the hike, and simply coming to admire the views. 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. If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed "No Parking" signs. Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. There is a phenomenal view from the parking area, which is lovely for those who are not interested in the hike. The Big Island of Hawaii is simply a treasure trove of beauty. Looking into Waimanu Valley, which was the next valley over from Waipi'o Valley. Depending on recent rains and time of year it can be relatively low or quite high. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. Insanely popular trail the parking area was already busy by 8:30 am. only come here for the lookout. Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley for hiking? - Tripadvisor Followers 1. Polulu Valley meaning Long Spear is revered in ancient history. BADLANDS SD As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Don't miss these. Walking back up the road at the end was a bit tough just due to the steep incline. Encouraging women to try adventurous travel. Got there at 10 and parking was "80% full" on a Friday. Definitely worth walking up the other side. Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! Its also down a steep road as opposed to a natural hike. Theres a small parking lot at the end of the road. See Wild Horses In Hawaii Roam Free In The Waipio Valley Once you reach the valley, you'll pass through a small picnic area and can either continue on the path above the beach or go down and wiggle your toes in some black sand. It can be distressing for locals to see people coming out of the bushes near the Pololu Valley trailhead, presuming why people are coming out of the bushes. 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. The Hawaii Black Sand Beaches (Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Molokai) WIND CAVE SD 02:09. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. WHAT TO WEAR SNORKELING Hawaii - Pololu Valley Hike to the Remote Honokane Nui Lookout. Free cancellation: up to 24 to 72 hours before tour. For this reason it is both referred to at the Polol Trail and the wini trail. By doing the hike, youll get better views of the black sand beach as youre going down, and its a nice scenic coastal hike! Keokea beach park is a quiet beach park with a shower and picnic tables close to Hawi and Pololu Valley. How long does the Waipio Valley hike take? Steep but beautiful! But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! He went on our last day, we were leaving on a red eye and I decided not to do it. I suppose it is easier to slip and slide your way downhill instead of uphill. Must cross water to go up the other side though. Quan forgot her jacket upon checking out of Waimea Country Lodge. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Hiking Distance: 1/2-1 mile round trip. It is split by the sublime Waipi'o River. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. The total length of this hike is . 4 Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall. Want to report conditions for this trail? Let's Go Hawaii - Hiking the Pololu Valley It only takes about 30 minutes to hike down to the valley from the scenic lookout. If it was dry I would have been fine driving it with our 4X4. Waipio Valley Residents Still Seek A Deal Limiting Foot Traffic On MUD!! 11:00-1:00: Take a Road Trip to Hip Hawi (#28) and explore Kapa'au. Polulu Valley/Waipio Valley - Island of Hawaii Message Board - Tripadvisor The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. The water here is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by very experienced swimmers and surfers. 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. You can also park Pololu Valley is the northernmost of the Seven Valleys of the Kohala Mountains, accessible from the Pololu Valley Trail. The hike itself is fairly steep, but it's not a super hard hike. I think the admin of this web page is genuinely working hard in support of his website, for the reason that here every material is quality based material. 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. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast youre staying. Pololu valley and waipio valley - Island of Hawaii Forum I recommend parking up the street slightly so that it is easy to turn around and leave at the end of your hike. A gorgeous visit to Polulu Valley on the west side of Hawaii. The trail to Pololu Beach is a steep, dirt path. It is drier than Waipio and lacks waterfalls, but it is lovely in its own way. Useful 3. 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. Noel Morata is the creator of This Hawaii Life along with a small team of contributors. Polol valley is the most northern of the impressive valleys that are carved into the Kohala volcano at the lush green pastures of the Kohala region on the Big Island. MAHALO! GRAND TETON WY I have wondered if the Awini Trail connects the the . https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3094/720. 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. We walked the opposite direction along the beach, crossed the river inflow and went to the large rocks before turning around. 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 Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) Click here to read my full disclosure policy. Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. , each with hip pockets for easier access to small items. (You can reach it from the beach, but it involves walking over lots of rocks.) Most references to the Polol Valley trail refer to this trail, which ends where the beach meets the valley floor. My posts got a little jumb, My Rogue River fashion: layers of sunscreen, wide-, Tools to Plan a Sensational Trip for Yourself. 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. You can take a short stroll along the river bank before it stops with warning signs of private property beyond the trail areas. The Awini trailhead can be found on the trail that runs above the beach. 1/22/2023. All rights reserved. In this video, we'll take you on a journey to the Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii. 6. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. From there its s another 8 miles until you hit the end at the Pololu Valley Look out point. SOUTH DAKOTA If you feel like having a very good workout this is the hike for you! This is probably one of the best angles to photograph the coast and the mouth of the valley. We don't shy away from more aggressive hiking but can also enjoy something more laid back as well. 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. More information at the Keokea beach park website. . 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! Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley - Hawaii - Cruise Critic Community If have a 4x4, do like the locals- back up your truck and park towards the ocean- lay in back of truck -and relax. The beach itself is made out of a mix of black sand and large boulders. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Waipio'o Valley Loop from Kukuihaele . 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. But if you prepare for the crowds and mud, then I know you will enjoy the hike as much as I did. Hiking Hawaii - Pololu Valley - Hawaii Real Estate Market & Trends We're staying in Kolea area so the drive. Come prepared! Polol Valley is the first valley from the right. Share More sharing options. OR if youre headed to a National Park at the last minute, check out my tips for GETTING A WALK-UP PERMIT OR FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE CAMPGROUND. All of the land upriver is privately owned. 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. Three Days in Waimanu Valley on Hawaii Island - Hawaii Magazine I could not tell in person which way it went from the lookout, so if you are planning to go further, you will have to do additional research. Beyond the Lookout: Exploring the Big Island's Pololu Valley If you are trying to decide where to hike, Waipio Valley or here, this hike is MUCH easier. 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. If you can find the river area on the far right, there is a small pond area that is relatively safe for swimming in depending on the water levels and weather. 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. There are also horses on the trail. to the bottom, head for the black sandy beach (the small trails that follow the Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. Sturdy shoes I wore tennis shoes, but it would have been helpful to have more grip on the muddy sections on the way to Honokane Nui Lookout. But the hike up is quite steep. 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 path washes away, so you have to do it on a dry day, and when you get down, its a bit anticlimactic. After you pass mile marker 28, youll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. My husband did this hike a couple of weeks ago and loved it http://www.bigislandhikes.com/puu-waawaa/. I had the Honokane Nui Lookout to myself for a good 15 minutes before another couple arrived. 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. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you love sightseeing, the shuttle tour is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon on the Big Island. Jump-start your day on the Big Island by making your way to any of these four spots to witness a stellar sunrise. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. 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. 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. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. and is the oldest of 5 volcanoes that make up the Big Island. You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. 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. Required fields are marked *. Big Island Activities The beach is a lovely stretch of fine black sand rimmed with black lava rock and shockingly emerald green beach ground cover. A visit to Pololu Valley in Hawaii - Travel Photo Discovery LANAI Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. The road was wet while we were there so I'm glad I didn't try to drive it. 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 down on broken paved road. the fertile Pololu . 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. I found this area to be relatively flat and dry. If you head over to the stream, you will see a beautiful view of the Pololu Valley. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. Also found a beautiful waterfall. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. Youll arrive down to the black sand beach! 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. After hiking Waipio Valley, it was about an hour and 20 minute drive to the . Sign up today on the latest for your slice of paradise! Alternatively, you may use, Island of Hawaii Hotels and Places to Stay, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton, Hawaii Island Retreat at Ahu Pohaku Ho`omaluhia, http://www.bigislandhikes.com/puu-waawaa/. . The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. 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. Download your copy of our * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. Look for the rope swings that are usually present. The hike up was a bit strenuous, but it was only a mile long so we made it up the steep bits in about 30 minutes. Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. to reach the bottom, On rainy Did not make it to the top; Ill be back! Beyond that, though, the drive to & from is part of the experience. Hiking east of Polol Valley is prohibited due to private property. Colleen you need to do this hike. My phone died part way through so I dont have photos of the horse. Saw wild horses at the bottom of the trail. Polol Valley Big Island Hikes . 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. I have done both several times. 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. Its a rewarding view that allows you to get away from the crowds that do the Pololu Valley Hike. Check out In Hawaii, respecting the land is a big thing in Hawaiian culture. Remnants from this landslide can still be found under water 81 miles (130 km) from the current coastline. MOUNT RUSHMORE SD Big Island Earthquake Update. There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. These stones can make it uncomfortable to walk into the water so if you do want to take a swim try to bring shoes that can get wet. Hiking stick for balance is very helpful as well. 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. 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. Absolutely beautiful. Try to respect nature and pack out all trash (as per usual). Almost immediately upon climbing, it began to rain. Approaching Storm at Pololu Valley; Due to Frequent Rain Squalls Off the Pacific Ocean, Rain Gear is Highly . 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). THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND That is why only a part of the hike is described here. Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. 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. GRAND CANYON AZ By hiking, youll get better views of the beach down below, which is notable for being a black sand beach! If you enjoyed the images and post, could you please share it with any of the social media buttons located around the post. The majority of people at Pololu don't walk down, and each time I was at the beach it wasn't remotely crowded. When you're ready, climb 300' back to the trailhead. Make sure you find parking even from a distant walk to the entrance of the trail since parking is limited right at the entrance. 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. It is wide enough for both uphill and downhill traffic to the bottom but give some clearance to people struggling uphill. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. Stunning View of the Waipio Valley #shorts - YouTube by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. This video and the associated comments explain all: "Happiness in intelligent people is the rarest thing I know." I haven't yet hiked into the valley, only walked part of the way down the road. Can these both be done on the same day? Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. How long does it take to hike down to Waipio Valley? This magnificent wild valley is at the head of the Kohala Coast, the oldest part of the island with deep valleys and picturesque beaches. IDAHO Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Thanks for visiting This Hawaii life and checking out this post on a Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. A History of the Waipio Valley on Hawaii's Big Island - TripSavvy Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. Black Sand Beaches in Hawaii, Everything You Need to Know Take Kohala Mountain Road on your way back ~ another stunning drive. Waipi'o Valley Big Island Hikes HAWAII VOLCANOES HI Consider the Salomon Trail Sense trail running shoes, which have amazing grip and flexibility while still looking like a regular shoe. Hard on the way up, but totally worth it., starts with a decline up to the beach. NATIONAL LAKESHORES If youre The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the one at Waipio, but it's on a hiking trail, vs. Waipio where you'll be hiking on a poorly maintained, very steep . (driving directions using google maps). 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. The hike felt remote and accessed some incredible jungle-like flora that I was craving while in Hawaii. Whether you are on a guided tour exploring the otherworldly landscapes shaped by lava, stargazing atop Mauna Kea, or relaxing seaside in a luxury B&B, the Big Island is sure to impress! Slick when wet. I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. 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 ? Bummer! 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. 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. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Great info Colleen and RJ. further out and then walk to the end where the trail begins. 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. Wild horses, stray dog that followed us at the hip and protected us, amazing views, a river crossing, wild fruit along the way (pomelo). Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park, Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, Ka Desert - Mauna Iki Trail from Hilina Pali Road. Big Island Hawaii VR Tour in 360 - VTHawaii.com Regarding treading on sacred ground is not a problem if you follow the following guidelines. Most people do the hike down to the beach and come back up. many unique galleries and shops worth exploring while you are in the area. Hike the Pololu Valley - letsgo-hawaii.com Especially with kids. 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. 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. You have to turn around. During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike.