I settled on Pololu Valley, a similar hike to Waipi'o, but with a few less people. You can stick around for 10 minutes to snap a few pictures of the breathtaking coastline and take in the scenery but the real attraction at Pololu is the short but steep hike down into the valley and the black sand beach at the valley floor. The photos he took were spectacular. SLEEPING BEAR DUNES MI I had to press down my "mall parking anxiety" not flee the premises, lol. The uphill is good and strenuous, but the first mile of the hike (the steep part) is paved and rough on your knees. Saturday February 26th - sign on road at Honokaa town - sign on road 7 miles before the hike starts saying Road CLOSEDNo hikers!!! JEWEL CAVE SD, HAWAII TRAVEL PLANNING Polol Valley Big Island Hikes we didn't end up going all the way. 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. A gorgeous visit to Polulu Valley on the west side of Hawaii. Once I turned around, the journey back to the trailhead went surprisingly quick. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Waipi'o is a mile wide at the coast and almost six miles deep. Duration: 10 to 11 hours. (Please do not disturb anything in this ancient site it is untouched and still in wonderful condition). Pololu Valley Beach (Big Island) Pololu Valley Beach is considered a hidden gem on Hawaii Island. Make sure you find parking even from a distant walk to the entrance of the trail since parking is limited right at the entrance. 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. Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! The trail climbs the eastern ridge of Pololu through a series of muddy and often slippery switchbacks and leads to a wooden bench that overlooks the Honokane Nui Valley and part of the Honokane Iki Valley. The hike itself is fairly steep, but it's not a super hard hike. 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). Unfortunately, rain washed out the trail . Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. V: Pololu Valley - emilyberkson 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! Lots of water and snacks. Hot lava cools to its surface to create that smooth exterior. Hiking Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley kenjiSAITO So detoured then to the beach- amazingly beautiful- and what was beautiful was the people we met along this hike. There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. It is unclear if the trail continues. Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. The hike down is steep, but mostly on pavement. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Got there at 10 and parking was "80% full" on a Friday. where Julie and I were fortunate enough to see flowing lava While Waipi'o Valley was the easternmost of the valleys in the Kohala Mountains in northeast Big Island, Pololu Valley was the westernmost of these valleys. Looks good for potentially running also. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. 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 views into Honokane Nui and the coast are simply stunning from the ridge. Paula Dobbyn/Civil Beat/2022 . See more state parks on the Big Island. 2. Hike the Pololu Valley - letsgo-hawaii.com Big Island vs Maui: Food. It is still a gorgeous, worthy hike even if you are heading down to the beach. Exercise caution when crossing and be aware of weather conditions. We don't shy away from more aggressive hiking but can also enjoy something more laid back as well. Arriving at 8:30 am, I was a bit bummed at how busy it was already. 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. 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 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. For decades, residents and visitors have traversed a steep, largely unpaved incline to the Big . Noel Morata is the creator of This Hawaii Life along with a small team of contributors. I'll make an argument for heading up to North (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? HALEAKALA HI We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. It is wide enough for both uphill and downhill traffic to the bottom but give some clearance to people struggling uphill. It means its yet another quieter part of the Big Island, and it means its yet another nice scenic drive getting there! For more information, please visit, No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Share More sharing options. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. Going Beyond Polulu Valley-Hard Hike On Hawaii Island This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. 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 . The small town of Kapaau has Beyond that, though, the drive to & from is part of the experience. Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. There is a trail that leads through the canyon gulch at a distance but visitors are not allowed to pass beyond a certain area since it is private lands. The Waipio Valley - What You Need to Know | Big Island Guide Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. Youll need to relax bc youll be on edge driving - esp if its your first time. 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. Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. 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). Couple that with the recent closure of the access road to the similarly popular Waipio Valley, and the crowds are growing. 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. Waipio Valley - Waimea Message Board - Tripadvisor Image by: Floyd Stewart/Flickr. Shop around on. Good to know: there are no public restrooms at the lookout or down in the valley. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! 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. The beach at the bottom is fantastic, with the valley river flowing into the ocean resulting in a nice shallow play area. Bummer! Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. There are several levels of visiting Pololu valley. BIG ISLAND The roundtrip hike goes down about 420 feet to the valley floor The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) 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! Instead, locals would like you to know about Keokea Beach Park where there are bathrooms. Behind the beach you can find large dunes and ironwood trees that protect the valley from floodwaters. Funny 1. Look for the rope swings that are usually present. 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. The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. WHAT TO WEAR HIKING, 2023 Flashpacking America | US outdoor travel blog, Are you headed to another island in Hawaii from the Big Island? 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). May 11, 2018 Alice Kao. You'll end up in Waimea, perfect place to have a beer (or whatever) and savor your day. In the late 1800s, many Chinese immigrants settled in the valley. Unfortunately, only the beach in this valley is public. Although this is lovely, I recommend further exploring the Pololu Valley and continuing to hike to the Honokane Nui Lookout. The total length of this hike is . of water with you on the short hike and sun screen for hot days, Trail and rocky and rough so hiking shoes or tennis shoes are necessary. It can get especially hot and sweaty during the hike up! 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. 02:09. Hiking on the Big Island Maluhia Hale at Hualalai Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! 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 Try to respect nature and pack out all trash (as per usual). How to get there? Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. The Pololu Trail Steward program is a recent initiative in which one or more local stewards are present at the Pololu Valley trailhead to inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. The commissions help support Moderately Adventurous stay alive and kicking. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. 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? 5. There are parking spots directly next to the trailhead, but I recommend parking a bit further up the street because the pedestrian flow around this area is almost constant. There are also horses on the trail. 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. WYOMING 84. 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. 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! 1. Slick when wet. The view of these lush valleys and cliffs into the ocean is stunning. The water here is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by very experienced swimmers and surfers. If you hike- especially after rainy season- wear waterproof sneakers. If you start hiking later, the humidity will get you, and the crowds start at 9-10. If have a 4x4, do like the locals- back up your truck and park towards the ocean- lay in back of truck -and relax. EVERGLADES FL Let me know in the comments! Big Island Earthquake Update. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. This Stunning Big Island Valley Is Drawing Bigger Crowds And (driving directions using google maps). #1. You can also park 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. WIND CAVE SD syr101 . Youre young and strong so youll probably finish in 2 hours. It's a short but steep hike, and parking is . We walked the opposite direction along the beach, crossed the river inflow and went to the large rocks before turning around. Suggested Time: 60-90 minutes. By hiking, youll get better views of the beach down below, which is notable for being a black sand beach! Waipio is the southeastern most of the Hamakua coasts dramatic stream valleys. Bummer, this trail is closed. inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. Kamehameha stature here for more information. the fertile Pololu . Moderately Adventurous participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase an item linked on this site. to reach the bottom, On rainy If you feel like having a very good workout this is the hike for you! 18. CARDIO!! Pololu Valley is an easy drive from Highway 270 through idyllic towns like Hawaii and Kapa'au. Quickly cross the Polol River where it meets the sea. Also found a beautiful waterfall. I have done both several times. Polol Valley Hike, Big Island Hawaii 2023 - Hawaii vacation.com After that, there were a number of other people arrived. In the event it reopens, it's likely not worth your trouble. Hiking stick for balance is very helpful as well. Re crowding at over look, much more at Waipio as area of over look is much bigger, not so much at Polulu. The Kohala coast of the Big Island stunned me yet again. Did this the last visit before I had this app and were heading down again this visit but its closed till probably 2025. This is one of the most adventurous and beautiful hikes we have done. The trail is After you pass mile marker 28, youll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. I found this area to be relatively flat and dry. None of this is to say Waipio isn't fantastic. Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley. He went on our last day, we were leaving on a red eye and I decided not to do it. Most people visit just day camp on the valley floor into the late hours. Hawaii - Pololu Valley Hike to the Remote Honokane Nui Lookout. Waiulili Falls - Ocean-Bound Waterfall by Waipi'o Valley Wai'po Valley Road is also part of the trail route, and it is also closed to pedestrian traffic. I recommend heading inland, and youll see a stone-lined walking path. There is a phenomenal view from the parking area, which is lovely for those who are not interested in the hike. Never drink the water and do not swim with open cuts. 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. The beach has no services, so plan accordingly. Consider the Salomon Trail Sense trail running shoes, which have amazing grip and flexibility while still looking like a regular shoe. 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. Beautiful place. Aloha and enjoy This Hawaii Life. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. My posts got a little jumb, My Rogue River fashion: layers of sunscreen, wide-, Tools to Plan a Sensational Trip for Yourself. The Awini trailhead can be found on the trail that runs above the beach. There are some great views of picturesque bodies of water, including the ocean, a small lake, and a river. Date first visited: . 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in the valley or at the lookout. Absolutely beautiful. Maybe I'm incorrect in my assumptions. downhill on the trail is rocky and wide with some nice spots for views and From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). 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. When you're ready, climb 300' back to the trailhead. 6.12 km. After you pass mile marker 28, you'll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. Mahalo! Hiilawe Falls - Legendary Waterfall with Temporary Flow While the "hike" down to the beach isn't extensive, it's so rewarding. statue of Kamehameha 1st who united all of the Hawaiian Islands. Useful 3. 2. There are rope swings, campsites, and trails that lead in every direction. Recommended Posts. 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. Good workout. All Rights Reserved. The hike down is mostly gravel and soil and relatively easy to climb down depending on temperature and wetness factor. 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. There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. The first section is steep as you climb the hillside into lush jungle-like surroundings. My favorite spot on the island so majorly bummed. I hope you enjoy it as much as he did! Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. MAMMOTH CAVE KY If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. You can get some great scenic views from the Pololu Valley lookout right near the parking area. done with your hiking adventure, check out all these other fun things to 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.

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