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There is often a possibility of rain at any moment. Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. Many visitors find Hawaii fascinating for its state parks and hidden sea caves. By: Wasabi Tours. We're staying in Kolea area so the drive. Id love to hear what you thought or if you enjoyed the Waipio valley as much as Pololu. Arriving at 8:30 am, I was a bit bummed at how busy it was already. The ocean at Pololu valley is not a safe place to go swimming. 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. So I guess I do believe in miracles. further out and then walk to the end where the trail begins. I ran out of water. 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/. HAWAII VOLCANOES HI Or read my tips for PLANNING A BACKPACKING TRIP in a National Park. 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. The beach at the bottom is fantastic, with the valley river flowing into the ocean resulting in a nice shallow play area. Maybe its best to think of this as a half day activity. Instead, you must walk down a rocky hiking trail for about 20 minutes. The vegetation is so thick that you do not get a view of the ocean. Kamehameha stature here for more information. 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. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! From the beach facing the ocean, looking right (SE) we could see Kaluahine Falls funneling water into the ocean. There is a phenomenal view from the parking area, which is lovely for those who are not interested in the hike. Shop around on. Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. Honokane Nui was a victim of the October 2006 earthquake, and the trail into the valley was reportedly destroyed. 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. Trailhead: Take Hwy. Michele Falzone/Getty Images. 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. 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. Most people do the hike down to the beach and come back up. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. Sign up today on the latest for your slice of paradise! Thanks for visiting today and checking out this post on this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley I hope you are inspired to plan a visit and enjoy these wonderful attractions. Want to report conditions for this trail? Saw wild horses at the bottom of the trail. Unfortunately, as far as we know, you can no longer continue beyond this point. All Rights Reserved. At the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala, the black sand beach at the mouth of Pololu Valley is accessible to adventurous visitors via a steep, 25-minute hike. The passing clouds threaten rain but also provide dynamic skies in your photos. 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. Waipi'o Valley hike time: The hike will take a total of 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the fitness level of the group and time spent exploring the valley floor. Be careful when it rains, very slick. There was a bit of muddy spots on the flat part of the road/trail, but easily navigable. 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. There is no lifeguard. My favorite spot on the island so majorly bummed. The roundtrip hike goes down about 420 feet to the valley floor more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. At Pololu, btw, you can go to the far end of the beach and hike up another mile or so for a view of the next valley over. ARIZONA I loved the dramatic and rugged landscape of the Pololu Valley Hike. Mahalo! 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. . Otherwise, you can park along the side of the road before that dead end parking lot too. Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park, Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, Ka Desert - Mauna Iki Trail from Hilina Pali Road. Here are some comparisons: It only takes about 30 minutes to hike down to the valley from the scenic lookout. So please, for everyones sake, locals and future Hawaii visitors alike, avoid those bushes! Somewhere between .75 and 1 mile. Youll probably also notice some nice campsites, but camping here is illegal. The majority of people at Pololu don't walk down, and each time I was at the beach it wasn't remotely crowded. downhill on the trail is rocky and wide with some nice spots for views and (Please do not disturb anything in this ancient site it is untouched and still in wonderful condition). 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. Learn how to MAKE THE MOST OF A GUIDED TOUR. Hiking stick for balance is very helpful as well. During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. Also the water was too high for us to be able to cross without getting soaked above the knees so we missed the back half because we werent prepared. This magnificent wild valley is at the head of the Kohala Coast, the oldest part of the island with deep valleys and picturesque beaches. We don't shy away from more aggressive hiking but can also enjoy something more laid back as well. 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. I'm hoping to hike part of the Muliwai Trail in May. After taking more photos with the reflection of the still water, I began the climb up to the trailhead. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Longitude: -155.7274313. 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. Keokea beach park is a quiet beach park with a shower and picnic tables close to Hawi and Pololu Valley. Pololu valley. Only a few people continue to the Honokane Nui Lookout, so this part of the trail is less busy. EVERGLADES FL I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. Free cancellation: up to 24 to 72 hours before tour. Yes, it is a busy trail, which is why I recommend continuing to the Honokane Nui Lookout if you have the fitness to do so. Polol Valley is the first valley from the right. PEARL HARBOR HI Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! If you do, please be mindful that you are visiting sacred land. (driving directions using google maps). 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. The Pololu Valley Lookout gives a spectacular view over the cliffs of the Kohala volcano. Hike Pololu Valley Big Island, Hawaii. There are rope swings, campsites, and trails that lead in every direction. If you would like to learn more about living here, be sure to check out my Moving To Hawaii Resources for Hawaii Island. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. Although the ground is rocky . MAUI Theres a bypass trail just a few feet away from the road around the muddiest areas at the bottom and before the beach. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. Waipio is a sacred area, we have never gone down it, because it seems disrespectful to go "touring" there. Seeing so many people doing this, it can be seen as a form of disrespecting the land. I haven't yet hiked into the valley, only walked part of the way down the road. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) I have done both several times. The weather at Pololu Valley is variable from cloudy and windy to stormy clouds and rain and then to blue sky, and you can even get all three happening on the same day. Check out all the fun details of this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. Cool 2. Lots of wildlife near the trail. If you like exercise you also opt for a hike to the next valley. Waipi'o is a mile wide at the coast and almost six miles deep. Waipi'o Valley - Valley of the Kings , by ALOHA DEAN The Seven Sacred Pools is part of Haleakala National Park and located on the eastern part of Maui, about 40 minutes beyond Hana. Whatever the situation during your visit do NOT even think about taking the coastline to the valleys beyond Pololu. I suppose it is easier to slip and slide your way downhill instead of uphill. The sacred Waipio Valley was once the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, and is an important site for Hawaiian history and culture. I had the Honokane Nui Lookout to myself for a good 15 minutes before another couple arrived. Leave before 12, or youll be stopping a lot to share the road. After you pass mile marker 28, you'll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. the fertile Pololu . 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]. Come prepared! You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. One of the best places to hike on the Big Island is the Pololu Valley. Easy to moderate. According to oral history, as many as 10,000 people lived in Waipio Valley before Captain Cook's landing in 1778. We revisited the Pololu Valley and hiked down to the bottom once more. However, rough surf and the occasional appearance of Portuguese Man-o-wars make it not the ideal beach for swimming. Encouraging women to try adventurous travel. P.O Box 4849 TRAIL CONDITIONS. Got there at 10 and parking was "80% full" on a Friday. Pololu Valley Lookout. Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. #1. The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the . One day of hiking to the Big Island valley beaches, swim shirts with UV protection like these, Why a personal swim buoy is an essential for snorkeling and swimming in the ocean. Thanks for the suggestion PlanetR. 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. The road leading to the Pololu Valley Lookout has also been repaired - news release. There is a bench at the end of the trail overlooking the Honokane Nui Valley. It can get especially hot and sweaty during the hike up! Hiking Hawaii - Pololu Valley. PICTURED ROCKS MI 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 SLEEPING BEAR DUNES MI 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! I'm kind of leaning toward Pololu for that reason. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. The Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls were nice, but not really hikes. I have wondered if the Awini Trail connects the the . Dont worry, there is plenty of time on the beach to take a breather! The small town of Kapaau has Youll find hiking up the Maliwai uncrowded. I had stopped by the trailhead the day before at about 3:00 pm, and it was only slightly more active at that time. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. Maybe I'm incorrect in my assumptions. 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. We spent the last day on the Big Island valley hopping and checking out a remote cabin on a private beach. Check out the other things I did on the Island of Hawaii: Have you done the Pololu Valley Hike or the Waipio Valley Hike? Take your time at the lookout, and I bet you will have some time alone. The "beach" is nothing but boulders usually, and the view isn't worth the extra work. by kenji SAITO on June 21, 2021. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Waipi'o valley Hike: A 6.5 mile round trip of medium difficulty. We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. Answer 1 of 20: We are a family of 4 with kids just out of college, We love nature, short hikes, photography. Update 11/21/06 - State officials have reopened the Pololu Trail in North Kohala. 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. All rights reserved. Most people visit just day camp on the valley floor into the late hours. 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. One switchback is a particularly good spot for a photo. 6. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88589471', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kohala and the Pololu Valley. 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. The trail down into the valley is a section of the old government road to wini. leave, so there is a lot of turnover for the parking spots. 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. Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley. All Rights Reserved. Waipio is the southeastern most of the Hamakua coasts dramatic stream valleys. This is a great place to bring a picnic. You can also make it a one day Big Island valley beach hike kind of day and make this day on the Big Island a "Waipio Valley + Pololu Valley" kind of day. Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in the valley or at the lookout. Pololu Valley as seen from the trailhead. Polulu Valley meaning Long Spear is revered in ancient history. MICHIGAN 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. 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. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapaau. The Pololu Ditch Trail into the valley leading to Kapoloa Falls was closed due to the Kona earthquake in October 2006. The earthquake from2006 is evidence of such. If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. Colleen is correct about Pololu Valley, its beautiful and drive there is as well. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. The expansive black sand beach is fantastic to walk through and check out the rock sculptures and enjoy the beach. At least 1 liter of water You cannot go wrong with, Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Stay Organized with this Trip Planning Template, Day 4 was our last day on the river, and I finally, Lodge fashion is a little different from river fas, Primarily rafting, we also did a little hiking on, A Rogue waterfall! Its steeep. Amazing is an understatement. The black sand beach at the valley floor looks like a beach at the end of the world. The cliffs of the Kohala coastline were formed during a catastrophic landslide between 250.000 and 300.000 years ago during which a large part of the volcano slipped into the ocean. 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. GULF ISLANDS FL You should hike down with sturdy shoes or boots for the variable rocks, steps and slope factor. 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). Yay, it worked! Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. 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. I took a couple of timelapse videos and could see the light move around on the valley walls with the clouds. Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and We're staying in Kolea area so the drive time is not too much different to either. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. Mahalo! 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). If you feel like having a very good workout this is the hike for you! WYOMING 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. Interested? Instead, locals would like you to know about Keokea Beach Park where there are bathrooms. The trail is 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. 1/22/2023. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. Locals only. The hike The Waipio Valley hike is one of the most beautiful and magical hiking spots on the Big Island. We have been adventuring around the island for over 10 years and love living here. Continuing on to the Z trail provides more solitude, I'm sure. Looks good for potentially running also. Most people only drive to the end of Hwy. Check the TRAVEL WITH ME PAGE to see if you can join any upcoming group tours that I am planning to review. All of the land upriver is privately owned. 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. Wild horses, stray dog that followed us at the hip and protected us, amazing views, a river crossing, wild fruit along the way (pomelo). Please have a chat with them when you arrive to learn more about the area and treat them kindly. 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! If youre challenged to extend your hike, consider going beyond to the next valley on the Honokane Nui trail to reach the Honokane gulch. SNORKELING SHIRTS Large pebbles and stones cover the beach, making a satisfying rattling sound when the waves pick them up. Beyond that, though, the drive to & from is part of the experience. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. You can hike to two of the valleys at Polulu provided that you stay on the trails and not wander through the mostly land that is private . Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. The steady supply disappeared in 1905 when the Kohala Ditch network was completed. Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. 6.12 km. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. statue of Kamehameha 1st who united all of the Hawaiian Islands. Theres also a trail that starts from the Pololu Valley lookout that goes down to sea level and makes for a great coastal hike. After one more switchback inland, you emerge from the trees to see the view at Honokane Nui Lookout. 4. The Polol Valley beach is mostly made up of moderately-sized polished lava rocks. This is a popular spot, so go on off times! 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. Expect this hike to the top of the ridge to take an additional 45 minutes to an hour both ways. Its steep, muddy, rocky and slippery. Right Colleen, I have read about the further hike across Pololu but forgot. The vertical distance from the overlook point down to the valley floor is 490ft (150m). How long does it take to hike down to Waipio Valley? If you want to drive instead of hiking down, you'll need to . You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipio Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. (read more about the geological history of Kohala). How to get to Pololu Valley. For something a bit different, take a look at Kalopa State Park. Liliuokalani Gardens, Hilo , by ALOHA DEAN Japanese garden in Hilo's Lili'uokalani Gardens, named for the Hawaiian monarch Queen Lili'uokalani. One of the benefits of living in Hawaii is the opportunity to be outside just about every day of the year. Couple that with the recent closure of the access road to the similarly popular Waipio Valley, and the crowds are growing. We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. 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. STOP OVERPACKING for your trip and pack just the right amount! Great for first-time visitors. This 22 mile network of flumes and ditches is essential for the water supply of a part of the island but also made sure that there are no permanent residents anymore in Pololu Valley. You can also park The view of the valley from the top, surrounded by cliffs up to 2,000 feet high, is already awe-inspiring.