Users of the website may print or download any content for personal use, but no one may reproduce this content (whether text or photographs) for any purpose in print or online without explicit permission from BigIslandHikes.com. The photos he took were spectacular. Pololu Valley Trail, from the lookout down to the valley takes . 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. You climb over 750 feet with many switch backs for about one mile uphill. Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. Trailhead: Take Hwy. You'll hear from me shortly. We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. 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. Kamehameha stature here for more information. 4. It is split by the sublime Waipi'o River. Approaching Storm at Pololu Valley; Due to Frequent Rain Squalls Off the Pacific Ocean, Rain Gear is Highly . I recommend heading inland, and youll see a stone-lined walking path. Insanely popular trail the parking area was already busy by 8:30 am. It is unclear if the trail continues. picture taking. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. Most people do the hike down to the beach and come back up. If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed "No Parking" signs. This hike covers about 20 km, depending on how long you want to walk. According to oral history, as many as 10,000 people lived in Waipio Valley before Captain Cook's landing in 1778. . SNORKELING SHIRTS And you are at the Pololu Valley lookout! Island of Hawaii. You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipi'o Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. If you enjoyed the images and post, could you please share it with any of the social media buttons located around the post. The Waipio Valley hike is one of the most beautiful and magical hiking spots on the Big Island. Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. Hike: Start at the Polol Valley overlook and find the trailhead for the Awini Trail marked by an extensive array of danger signs. None of this is to say Waipio isn't fantastic. Josiane St Pierre / Getty Images. Remnants from this landslide can still be found under water 81 miles (130 km) from the current coastline. many unique galleries and shops worth exploring while you are in the area. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. More of the, many black sand beaches on the Big Island, Hawaii packing list: THE top things to pack for Hawaii. by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. Explore the western town of Hawi and try some local food and snacks. Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. 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. 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. Want to report conditions for this trail? 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. Enjoy the views, the walk, the beach. There are no trails heading out to the rocky beach areas but you can walk down through an old Hawaiian village and area of rock walls and pond enclosures that were probably made for growing taro, keeping animals and shelter which is truly amazing to visit. 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. At the Pololu Valley floor, you will see a stream with large trees. It then passes through 12 smaller gulches on a . If youre Answer 1 of 20: We are a family of 4 with kids just out of college, We love nature, short hikes, photography. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The valley was the permanent home for Hawaiian ali'i (royalty) until the time of King Umi-a-Lloa. Afterward, most people left the valley, and it has been sparsely . The huge sea cliffs paralleling a beautiful black sand beach were simply amazing to look at. Thanks for visiting This Hawaii life and checking out this post on a Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. 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 roundtrip hike goes down about 420 feet to the valley floor After you pass mile marker 28, youll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. The river has to be crossed, which is best done at low tide and . Waipio Valley Hike (ROAD CURRENTLY CLOSED) It is not considered a swimming beach and sometimes inundated with Portuguese man-o-wars, so do not try to swim this dangerous beach especially with no resources for helping in drowning conditions. If youre interested in Pololu Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: ROAD TRIP AMERICA visit on sunnier days when the trail is dry and easy to hike below, There are no Large pebbles and stones cover the beach, making a satisfying rattling sound when the waves pick them up. Once on the valley floor, the flora changes abruptly into large ironwood trees just behind the beach. The ocean, the enormous cliffs hugging the coastline and the lush green Pololu valley in the background are all surreal together. It is possible you will encounter people from the Pololu Valley Steward Program at the 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. Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. explore and see in the area. 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. This is a popular spot, so go on off times! The Pololu Valley and this coastline are particularly beautiful for the steep, greenery-covered valley walls and dramatic cliffs that fall into the ocean. On Dec 7, a lava boat was spotted floating down channel. Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. The views into Honokane Nui and the coast are simply stunning from the ridge. Since this hike will likely take 3-4 hours, here is what I recommend you bring with you on the Pololu Valley Hike: The trailhead is at the end of a dead-end road and very easy to find! Youll save yourself the tight corners and the wait by parking up the street. You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS TN NC Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Most references to the Polol Valley trail refer to this trail, which ends where the beach meets the valley floor. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. 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. The Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls were nice, but not really hikes. You continue through the village of Hawi (good spot for a bite & beverage), on narrow, winding roads with one-land bridges. It's still worth coming here to enjoy the view from the lookout, which I believe is the most beautiful vantage on the island! ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. All rights reserved. Arriving at 8:30 am, I was a bit bummed at how busy it was already. Youll find hiking up the Maliwai uncrowded. The Volcano Van - Big Island Volcano Tours, Holualoa Inn-Big Island Bed and Breakfast, Latitude: 20.20033933 Crossing the river was about knee deep and definitely had some force behind it. 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. Try not to get blown away by the incredible views and crazy wind at the Honokane Nui Lookout. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Thats because its kind of in the far north of the Big Island, and a spot where not many other things are located. (read more about the geological history of Kohala). A little off the beaten path, this hike was our favorite on the Big Island. Its a shame that they dont realize that hiking one or two switch-backs down toward Polol Beach provides a much better photo vantage. So please, for everyones sake, locals and future Hawaii visitors alike, avoid those bushes! done with your hiking adventure, check out all these other fun things to (Although you will pass through the cute Hawi town.). Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. 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. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. There are some switchbacks toward the bottom of the hill. This is one of the most adventurous and beautiful hikes we have done. Colleen you need to do this hike. March 3, 2023. Here are some comparisons: For something a bit different, take a look at Kalopa State Park. We're staying in Kolea area so the drive. The black sand beach at Pololu Valley can be rocky if a storm has washed away the black sand. I recommend parking up the street slightly so that it is easy to turn around and leave at the end of your hike. Mahalo! BADLANDS SD Big Island Hikes has another hike that proceeds over to an overlook for the next valley, Honokne Nui. The total length of this hike is . On the northern Hamakua Coast, you'll find the lush Waipio Valley. GULF ISLANDS FL Many visitors find Hawaii fascinating for its state parks and hidden sea caves. Must cross water to go up the other side though. This magnificent wild valley is at the head of the Kohala Coast, the oldest part of the island with deep valleys and picturesque beaches. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapaau. 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. 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. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. Once you get There are some great views of picturesque bodies of water, including the ocean, a small lake, and a river. Copyright 2020, BigIslandHikes.com. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. 31. The ornamental . Pololu Valley is home to one of the many black sand beaches on the Big Island. Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. WHAT TO WEAR SNORKELING 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. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. Especially with kids. The small town of Kapaau has This short trail has beautiful coastal views. 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. Take that trail up until you reach edge across from Waipio lookout on other side. (You can reach it from the beach, but it involves walking over lots of rocks.) Useful 3. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! 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. 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. If you are trying to decide where to hike, Waipio Valley or here, this hike is MUCH easier. And of course, hiking down to the valley floor and spending some time on the beach is very worthwhile. But if you prepare for the crowds and mud, then I know you will enjoy the hike as much as I did. THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND With clouds swirling overhead for the duration of my hike, it was bound to happen. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. In the late 1800s, many Chinese immigrants settled in the valley. So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . Hiking Distance: 1/2-1 mile round trip. The stretch between the Pololu valley lookout and the black sand beach is only the first part of a more extended trail. Also, if you want an adventure, check out Kaumana Caves. Steep but beautiful! Lava boats can form when portions of the cone or lava channel break away & are rafted downstream. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. The hike itself is fairly steep, but it's not a super hard hike. Pololu is amazingly breathtaking, but the hike is almost straight down. Maybe I'm incorrect in my assumptions. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Easy to moderate. syr101 . The black sand beach at the valley floor looks like a beach at the end of the world. Getting There. Can these both be done on the same day? Image adapted from source (by Eric Tessmer). Continuing on to the Z trail provides more solitude, I'm sure. Liliuokalani Gardens, Hilo , by ALOHA DEAN Japanese garden in Hilo's Lili'uokalani Gardens, named for the Hawaiian monarch Queen Lili'uokalani. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. 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. Island of Hawaii Tourism Island of Hawaii Hotels Island of Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Island of Hawaii Holiday Rentals Island of Hawaii Packages During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. 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. There also are some pretty cool things to do close to Pololu valley to make your visit into a small road trip. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa'au. Pololu Valley Beach (Big Island) Pololu Valley Beach is considered a hidden gem on Hawaii Island. Id love to hear what you thought or if you enjoyed the Waipio valley as much as Pololu. Once you get closer, youll start to see signs for Pololu Valley. Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park, Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, Ka Desert - Mauna Iki Trail from Hilina Pali Road. . In my very limited experience (twice at Waipio, three times at Pololu), I've actually found Waipio more crowded. However, as it heads inland, you will get a peek at the Pololu Valley below. Date first visited: . Mahalo! The steady supply disappeared in 1905 when the Kohala Ditch network was completed. How to get there? leave, so there is a lot of turnover for the parking spots. 4 Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall. Bummer! The trail can be quite muddy if it has been raining. Somewhere between .75 and 1 mile. I can't seem to remember now which of the longer hikes we did, maybe Akaka Falls? Most people only drive to the end of Hwy. Hiking east of Polol Valley is prohibited due to private property. Saw one fisherman on the beach, and four vehicles passed us while hiking the paved section. There was an error submitting your subscription. We have been adventuring around the island for over 10 years and love living here. pic.twitter.com/D9gdoFolfq. Regarding treading on sacred ground is not a problem if you follow the following guidelines. If you love sightseeing, the shuttle tour is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon on the Big Island. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Although the ground is rocky . P.O Box 4849 TRAIL CONDITIONS. Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. The trail down to the valley floor offers great views into Pololu Valley. Just dont expect a quiet reprieve into nature. I have done both several times. The trail itself offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the valley and the black sand beach on the valley floor. Take the coast highway one direction; the landscape there is unmatchable. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88624665', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui one week we'll go out there at least twice if not more). But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! It shocked me to make it back to the Pololu Valley floor without falling. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. 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. Permanent signs are posted saying road closed and no pedestrians. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. 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. 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. The only ones that can be hiked are Waipio Valley near Waimea, Waimanu Valley (from Waipio) and Pololu Valley, which must be approached from the west side. No . Or else you can take a 4x4 down and up the same road. public services or lifeguards at the beach, Bring plenty The Pololu Valley floor is beautiful with a river, campgrounds, etc. Only a few people continue to the Honokane Nui Lookout, so this part of the trail is less busy. We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. 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. MICHIGAN Great hike. Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. 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. 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. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. The cliffs are also known to have landslides as the coast continues its process of erosion. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. My phone died part way through so I dont have photos of the horse.