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. Pololu Valley is located in north Kohala on the eastern slope of the extinct Kohala volcano at the northernmost point of the Big Island. On Dec 7, a lava boat was spotted floating down channel. 5. HAWAII EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the . call before planning any hike. We'll update this page if and when it reopens. I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. 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. 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 . Three Days in Waimanu Valley on Hawaii Island - Hawaii Magazine Image adapted from source (by Eric Tessmer). Great for first-time visitors. Somewhere between .75 and 1 mile. 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. Make sure you find parking even from a distant walk to the entrance of the trail since parking is limited right at the entrance. The trailhead has no services at all no water, no restrooms, and no cell service. There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. Let me know in the comments! There is no lifeguard. What locals living near Pololu Valley would like you to know! Polol Valley Big Island Hikes Even now, the natural beauty of Pololu looks untouched in the ages with the rugged cliffs, black sand beach and huge ocean waves crashing on the beach. GRAND TETON WY We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. And then basically you will be driving to a dead end. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: Hapuna Beach to Mauna Kea Beach, Puukohol Heiau National Historical Site Trail, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: Mauna Kea Beach to Hapuna Beach, Kalahuipua'a Historic Park and Fishponds Loop, Muliwai and Waimanu Valley Trail [CLOSED]. Recommend bringing an extra pair of socks and a towel if you plan on crossing the River. 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). 6. Previously, earthquake damage had closed the Pololu Valley trail, but it is once again open - and it is a hike that you must do! 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. Hike Waipio Valley Big Island, Hawaii - Backcountrycow Maybe I'm incorrect in my assumptions. Polulu Valley/Waipio Valley - Island of Hawaii Message Board - Tripadvisor Saturday February 26th - sign on road at Honokaa town - sign on road 7 miles before the hike starts saying Road CLOSEDNo hikers!!! 6:30-11:00: Hike into Pololu Valley. Hiking Hawaii - Pololu Valley. Right Colleen, I have read about the further hike across Pololu but forgot. https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3094/720. Day 6: Big Island Road Trip Itinerary (Waipi'o Valley and Polol Valley) Pololu Valley hike: This is a 2.5 miles round trip and is pretty easy. UTAH There are no bathrooms near the Pololu Valley trailhead. 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. Sounds like Pololu is more about the journey and a shorter hike. Can you still hike into Waipio Valley? | Dependable You Unfortunately, rain washed out the trail . Also, if you want an adventure, check out Kaumana Caves. While the "hike" down to the beach isn't extensive, it's so rewarding. This short trail has beautiful coastal views. 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. Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! FLORIDA, U.S. NATIONAL PARK SITES Drive down the Akone Pule highway 270 and past the small town of Hawi. 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. This is one of the most adventurous and beautiful hikes we have done. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa'au. NORTH DAKOTA by kenji SAITO on June 21, 2021. to the bottom, head for the black sandy beach (the small trails that follow the Beyond the Lookout: Exploring the Big Island's Pololu Valley 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. So going to Pololu Valley requires a time commitment. Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Looking back into the valley you can see the waters of Pololu stream. This is a gorgeous walk with stunning views and one of our 5 favorite hikes on the Big Island! POLOLU VALLEY TRAIL--BIG ISLAND - thehikinghi The leeward side of the Kohala volcano is one of the best places on the Big Island to see whales from the shore. 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. Getting There. I had the Honokane Nui Lookout to myself for a good 15 minutes before another couple arrived. Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! . We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. Explore the western town of Hawi and try some local food and snacks. Cool 2. Although this is lovely, I recommend further exploring the Pololu Valley and continuing to hike to the Honokane Nui Lookout. If youre can find more details about the original Located in the flourishing green pastures of North Kohala at the end of Highway 270, Pololu Valley is simply awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise. Come prepared! Honokane Nui was a victim of the October 2006 earthquake, and the trail into the valley was reportedly destroyed. NATIONAL LAKESHORES Josiane St Pierre / Getty Images. I'm hoping to hike part of the Muliwai Trail in May. The valley is deeply cut into the mass of Kohala mountain, with three thousand-foot cliffs and some waterfalls up to fifteen-hundred feet. 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. For decades, residents and visitors have traversed a steep, largely unpaved incline to the Big . A gorgeous hike from the top to the gorgeous black sandy beaches of Pololu Valley, the drive alone and panoramic views of the cliffs and coastlines impresses the moment you park on the end of road. Big Island - Waipi'o Valley Island of Hawaii Tourism Island of Hawaii Hotels Island of Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Island of Hawaii Holiday Rentals Island of Hawaii Packages just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and to reach the bottom, On rainy many unique galleries and shops worth exploring while you are in the area. Island of Hawaii. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. After one more switchback inland, you emerge from the trees to see the view at Honokane Nui Lookout. Great hike. 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! It is smooth sailing going down, but getting back up can be a real workout. How long does it take to hike down to Waipio Valley? Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. These packs would be a more comfortable experience. Continue to cliffs, a bit inland you will find a trail. Approaching Storm at Pololu Valley; Due to Frequent Rain Squalls Off the Pacific Ocean, Rain Gear is Highly . We're staying in Kolea area so the drive time is not too much different to either. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Waipio Valley - Waimea Message Board - Tripadvisor How to get to Pololu Valley. It is considered one of the steepest roads in the world down to an . The stretch between the Pololu valley lookout and the black sand beach is only the first part of a more extended trail. If you feel challenged, you can even go beyond to the other valleys beyond Pololu on a day trip or overnight stay. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. 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. It is possible you will encounter people from the Pololu Valley Steward Program at the lookout. Can these both be done on the same day? It then passes through 12 smaller gulches on a . It means its yet another quieter part of the Big Island, and it means its yet another nice scenic drive getting there! 31. Lava boats can form when portions of the cone or lava channel break away & are rafted downstream. Interested? There are some trails parallel to the beach that make it easy to get to the other side of the valley (and continue the hike to other valleys) that are worth exploring if you have 20 minutes and a bit of energy to spare. From there you can look back into the valley seeing waterfalls unseen from other side. Answer 1 of 20: We are a family of 4 with kids just out of college, We love nature, short hikes, photography. Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley for hiking? - Island of Hawaii Forum Both times, the parking area was packed. Not sure how much you've read about each hike: http://www.bigislandhikes.com/pololu-valley/, http://www.bigislandhikes.com/waipio-valley/. Noel Morata is the creator of This Hawaii Life along with a small team of contributors. Best Hikes Big Island - 12 Incredible Adventures - Tripster Travel Guide 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). Be prepared for the parking area to be busy when you arrive! A History of the Waipio Valley on Hawaii's Big Island - TripSavvy The ocean at Pololu valley is not a safe place to go swimming. Bring a flashlight. Permanent signs are posted saying road closed and no pedestrians. Start early - like 730-8 in morning. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. There are are group tours that lead visitors directly to see the waterfall at Pololu called Kapoloa Falls, this is managed by Hawaii Forest and Trail. After hiking Waipio Valley, it was about an hour and 20 minute drive to the . The third guich is higher in elevation and some of the trail is very tricky with barely any trail walking the sides of loose slope but with some helpful ropes to keep you from sliding down hill. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. Theres a small parking lot at the end of the road. Yay, it worked! Hawaii's Awini Trail Is The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of - OnlyInYourState Waipi'o Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. There is room for about 10 cars at the end of the road in a parking area that fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow . I took a couple of timelapse videos and could see the light move around on the valley walls with the clouds. Looking into Waimanu Valley, which was the next valley over from Waipi'o Valley. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Hike Pololu Valley Big Island, Hawaii. public services or lifeguards at the beach, Bring plenty There are some switchbacks toward the bottom of the hill. My husband did this hike a couple of weeks ago and loved it http://www.bigislandhikes.com/puu-waawaa/. The Top 10 Hikes on Hawaii Island - TripSavvy so sad! 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. A guy at the entrance said the trail is closed to hikers and cars until further notice. The expansive black sand beach is fantastic to walk through and check out the rock sculptures and enjoy the beach. After that, there were a number of other people arrived. Useful 3. If youre challenged to extend your hike, consider going beyond to the next valley on the Honokane Nui trail to reach the Honokane gulch. The sacred Waipio Valley was once the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, and is an important site for Hawaiian history and culture. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. 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. 7 . You can find a more concise description of this hike at the bigislandhikes website. Liliuokalani Gardens, Hilo , by ALOHA DEAN Japanese garden in Hilo's Lili'uokalani Gardens, named for the Hawaiian monarch Queen Lili'uokalani. We would love to see things that are truly unique to big island; we have hiked (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Cool max - Light weight shorts and shirt/ hoodie. Paula Dobbyn/Civil Beat/2022 . Behind the beach you can find large dunes and ironwood trees that protect the valley from floodwaters. Slick when wet. It's also the northernmost valley of the same chain that includes Waipi'o Valley, which was shown on the first trip. A group of Chinese immigrants settled in the valley in the late 1800 and built churches . The trail itself offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the valley and the black sand beach on the valley floor. YELLOWSTONE WY Instead, you must walk down a rocky hiking trail for about 20 minutes. 1/22/2023. The views into Honokane Nui and the coast are simply stunning from the ridge. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast youre staying. Or read my tips for PLANNING A BACKPACKING TRIP in a National Park. The uphill is good and strenuous, but the first mile of the hike (the steep part) is paved and rough on your knees. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. The path washes away, so you have to do it on a dry day, and when you get down, its a bit anticlimactic. Polol Valley: the Lookout, the Hike, and the Black Sand Beach Instead, locals would like you to know about Keokea Beach Park where there are bathrooms. How long does the Waipio Valley hike take? But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! Great info Colleen and RJ. Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! You have to turn around. 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. 3. One of the benefits of living in Hawaii is the opportunity to be outside just about every day of the year. Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in the valley or at the lookout. downhill on the trail is rocky and wide with some nice spots for views and Lets get into the hike! Want to report conditions for this trail? Absolutely beautiful. But if you prepare for the crowds and mud, then I know you will enjoy the hike as much as I did. REI Co-op tights are calling them buttery-soft, 23 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island, Hawaii, Camping, Permits, and Gear for the Enchantments, GETTING A WALK-UP PERMIT OR FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE CAMPGROUND, Product Review Testing the Adventure Wagon Interior Modular System, Oregon Mt. Totally closed as of last Friday for all hikers and cars for an indefinite amount of time! 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). Waipio Valley Information, Photos & More - Hawaii Guide 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. Pololu Valley Awini Trail Information & More - Hawaii Guide It shocked me to make it back to the Pololu Valley floor without falling. 2. BRYCE CANYON UT Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. High surf, undertow, and rip tides are frequently present so only go in the water if you are a good swimmer and dont get in too deep. It can get especially hot and sweaty during the hike up! Unfortunately, you won't find a short walk to this black sand beach in Hawaii. Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley. The Awini trailhead can be found on the trail that runs above the beach. Big Island Activities 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. JEWEL CAVE SD, HAWAII TRAVEL PLANNING 18. The hike down is mostly gravel and soil and relatively easy to climb down depending on temperature and wetness factor. The river has to be crossed, which is best done at low tide and . The trail down to the valley floor offers great views into Pololu Valley. I found this area to be relatively flat and dry. I loved the dramatic and rugged landscape of the Pololu Valley Hike. Insanely popular trail the parking area was already busy by 8:30 am. Definitely worth walking up the other side. You wont get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. Near the top of the ridge you'll reach a small plateau with a large rock. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. The "beach" is nothing but boulders usually, and the view isn't worth the extra work. By syr101, October 30, 2014 in Hawaii. WHAT TO WEAR SNORKELING This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. 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. How long is pololu Valley hike? 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. There are heiaus and historical parks to explore along the way. So be careful. Check out 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. It is unclear if the trail continues. If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. If you would like to learn more about living here, be sure to check out my Moving To Hawaii Resources for Hawaii Island. It seems like the path is not maintained regularly, so be prepared for it all steep sections, muddy sections, areas with debris, confusing side trails, etc. Whatever the situation during your visit do NOT even think about taking the coastline to the valleys beyond Pololu. We spent the last day on the Big Island valley hopping and checking out a remote cabin on a private beach. 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. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. 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. 2. Couple that with the recent closure of the access road to the similarly popular Waipio Valley, and the crowds are growing. 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. There are also horses on the trail. Big Island vs Maui: Food. I recommend bringing along some slip on shoes to change into crossing, then back in hiking boots/shoes on other side. Required fields are marked *. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). explore and see in the area. If it was dry I would have been fine driving it with our 4X4. I was slipping and sliding my way to the Honokane Nui Lookout. Your email address will not be published. Theme by 17th Avenue. Beautiful place. If you're heading there from one of the main towns, the drive is still about an hour and a half from Hilo, and two hours from Kona. 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! So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . LANAI Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! The Volcano Van - Big Island Volcano Tours, Holualoa Inn-Big Island Bed and Breakfast, Latitude: 20.20033933 After you pass mile marker 28, you'll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. 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. Turned out, all we needed was the water and chips. 4 Incredible Spots to Watch a Sunrise on the Big Island Pololu Valley and Waipio valley were spectacular hikes. GULF ISLANDS FL 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. IDAHO If you are trying to decide where to hike, Waipio Valley or here, this hike is MUCH easier. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. As we do for most places on the Big Island we recommend to visit Pololu Valley early in the day. Please treatt hem with aloha and follow their directions. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. Try to respect nature and pack out all trash (as per usual). Youll save yourself the tight corners and the wait by parking up the street. 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. Pololu Valley - Savor the Moment Photography 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. steep with 13 percent grade going down to the valley floor and is only .6 miles Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. Waipio Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. Just dont expect a quiet reprieve into nature. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. Over all its 25% grade. How Hard Is The Pololu Valley Lookout Hike - BikeHike There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. Our current itinerary gives us one day to devote to hiking aside from what we will do in one day at VNP. 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. picture taking. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. Mahalo! WIND CAVE SD Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. Some of the cars in the morning may have been from people who were camping in the valley, but overall, it is best to mentally prepare for this popular spot to be busy. 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. From the beach facing the ocean, looking right (SE) we could see Kaluahine Falls funneling water into the ocean. The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead. Pololu Trail | Map, Guide - Hawaii, Hawaii | AllTrails Steep but beautiful! We like to be doing actual hiking for about 2-3 hours plus the time to stop and take in the sights. 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. Ultra grateful to the couple from Tennessee who gave us a lift back up in their Toyota Tacoma- even though we left a pricey hiking pole in their car by accident- grateful to have not done the hike up- my body/feet wouldve just gotten too torn up! Hiking stick for balance is very helpful as well. It's about an hour and a half drive from Kona, and an hour and ten minutes from Hilo. There is a bench at the end of the trail overlooking the Honokane Nui Valley. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. GRAND CANYON AZ 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. You can also hike down the beach and up the Mulawai zigzag trail about 30 minutes to the third switchback for great views of the valley and beach. It is located on the west side of the island. Stunning View of the Waipio Valley #shorts - YouTube Big Island Earthquake Update. The rest of the gulches follow in order from: Parking is 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. Don't miss these. By hiking, youll get better views of the beach down below, which is notable for being a black sand beach! The hike felt remote and accessed some incredible jungle-like flora that I was craving while in Hawaii. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Waipio'o Valley Loop from Kukuihaele . I'm kind of leaning toward Pololu for that reason. 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. 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. Walking back up the road at the end was a bit tough just due to the steep incline.