You'll end up in Waimea, perfect place to have a beer (or whatever) and savor your day. Thanks for visiting This Hawaii life and checking out this post on a Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. Nearly all streams in Hawaii pose the threat of bacteria. In less than a mile hike, you'll be treated to some of the best views of sheer cliffs and lush rolling valley hills. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. 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! Please treatt hem with aloha and follow their directions. We walked the opposite direction along the beach, crossed the river inflow and went to the large rocks before turning around. Island of Hawaii Tourism Island of Hawaii Hotels Island of Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Island of Hawaii Holiday Rentals Island of Hawaii Packages Polol means long spear, and carves a long cleave on the northern side of Kohala Mountain. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Sounds like Pololu is more about the journey and a shorter hike. My phone died part way through so I dont have photos of the horse. 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. . We were devastated to hear that this access road may remain closed until 2025! Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. I recommend bringing along some slip on shoes to change into crossing, then back in hiking boots/shoes on other side. Alternatively, the Waipio Valley Shuttle is the original 4-wheel drive tour of "the land of curving water" and is a mesmerizing and intimate look at the valley. Youll finally get to a high ridge with magnificent views of Honokane and the other cliffs of the Kohala mountains. Looks good for potentially running also. We would love to see things that are truly unique to big island; we have hiked (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? UTAH FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Continue to cliffs, a bit inland you will find a trail. Lets get into the hike! Theme by 17th Avenue. The "beach" is nothing but boulders usually, and the view isn't worth the extra work. Check out all the fun details of this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. Saw wild horses at the bottom of the trail. Date first visited: . How to get there? Regarding treading on sacred ground is not a problem if you follow the following guidelines. Waipi'o Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. Once on the valley floor, the flora changes abruptly into large ironwood trees just behind the beach. Longitude: -155.7274313. Getting There. Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. The valley was the permanent home for Hawaiian ali'i (royalty) until the time of King Umi-a-Lloa. This river is fed by agricultural runoff, so carefully consider how you treat this water before drinking. Both lookouts are crowded, AmyNoelle, and finding a parking spot can be an initial annoyance. 1/22/2023. Colleen is correct about Pololu Valley, it's beautiful and drive there is as well. Pololu Valley Beach (Big Island) Pololu Valley Beach is considered a hidden gem on Hawaii Island. All of the land upriver is privately owned. Waipio Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You should hike down with sturdy shoes or boots for the variable rocks, steps and slope factor. Hot lava cools to its surface to create that smooth exterior. Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. Hawaii - Pololu Valley Hike to the Remote Honokane Nui Lookout. By Tiphany Myers. 2. Hiking east of Polol Valley is prohibited due to private property. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. 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. The Pololu Ditch Trail into the valley leading to Kapoloa Falls was closed due to the Kona earthquake in October 2006. 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. Unfortunately, you won't find a short walk to this black sand beach in Hawaii. 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. Near the top of the ridge you'll reach a small plateau with a large rock. Answer 1 of 20: We are a family of 4 with kids just out of college, We love nature, short hikes, photography. Its a rewarding view that allows you to get away from the crowds that do the Pololu Valley Hike. Pololu valley. After hiking Waipio Valley, it was about an hour and 20 minute drive to the parking lot here. Hiking stick for balance is very helpful as well. It is located on the west side of the island. Great for first-time visitors. My favorite spot on the island so majorly bummed. 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. 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. Waipi'o valley is the most southern valley that carved into the Kohala volcano, where Pololu valley is at the north side of this cliff section. Stay organized while planning your own trip with a TRIP PLANNING DOCUMENT. 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). Paula Dobbyn/Civil Beat/2022 . Head out to the rocky beach for a view of the ocean and rugged coastline. All Rights Reserved. Absolutely beautiful. GULF ISLANDS FL The hike itself is fairly steep, but it's not a super hard hike. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. How long does the Waipio Valley hike take? Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. The trail itself offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the valley and the black sand beach on the valley floor. But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! Waipi'o Valley hike elevation: The elevation gain is approximately 975 feet on the steepest road . 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Dont worry, there is plenty of time on the beach to take a breather! Amazing is an understatement. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. 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. Encouraging women to try adventurous travel. 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. Maybe I'm incorrect in my assumptions. 11:00-1:00: Take a Road Trip to Hip Hawi (#28) and explore Kapa'au. White top I was wearing a lightweight top from Free People. On Dec 7, a lava boat was spotted floating down channel. Keep in mind though that the land further back is privately owned and that there are sacred burial sites deeper in the valley. Saturday February 26th - sign on road at Honokaa town - sign on road 7 miles before the hike starts saying Road CLOSEDNo hikers!!! You can get some great scenic views from the Pololu Valley lookout right near the parking area. Because the valley is at the end of the road you will pass a few cool places and things to do that make it easy to make visiting Pololu valley part of a half or whole day road trip. Once you pass the stream and campsites, the trail becomes increasingly wild. Wai'po Valley Road is also part of the trail route, and it is also closed to pedestrian traffic. , especially if you plan to hike to Honokane Nui Lookout there is no cell reception once you enter the Pololu Valley. Youll save yourself the tight corners and the wait by parking up the street. It also helped that I knew what to expect. Hike Pololu Valley Big Island, Hawaii. There is a phenomenal view from the parking area, which is lovely for those who are not interested in the hike. days, it is muddy and extremely slippery, Look to click here to go to our instagram account, Polol Valley: the Lookout, the Hike, and the Black Sand Beach. Although this is lovely, I recommend further exploring the Pololu Valley and continuing to hike to the Honokane Nui Lookout. I'd suggest taking the Waipio Valley Shuttle if you have young kids in tow. Recommend bringing an extra pair of socks and a towel if you plan on crossing the River. After one more switchback inland, you emerge from the trees to see the view at Honokane Nui Lookout. 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. Make sure you find parking even from a distant walk to the entrance of the trail since parking is limited right at the entrance. Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. There also are some pretty cool things to do close to Pololu valley to make your visit into a small road trip. Slick when wet. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. You can also park It is wide enough for both uphill and downhill traffic to the bottom but give some clearance to people struggling uphill. Aloha and enjoy This Hawaii Life. You can take a short stroll along the river bank before it stops with warning signs of private property beyond the trail areas. If you want to drive instead of hiking down, you'll need to . We're staying in Kolea area so the drive time is not too much different to either. PEARL HARBOR HI The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the . PICTURED ROCKS MI We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. To get there you have to follow the Akoni Pule Highway (highway 270) until it ends ends 8 miles east of the town of Hawi at the Pololu Valley lookout. Instead, locals would like you to know about Keokea Beach Park where there are bathrooms. 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. The beach at the bottom is fantastic, with the valley river flowing into the ocean resulting in a nice shallow play area. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. Try to respect nature and pack out all trash (as per usual). 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. BRYCE CANYON UT Be careful when it rains, very slick. If you are going to Pololu Valley during whale season (between ~December and March) and want to include a whale-watching picnic to your visit you should start by checking out our DIY whale watching tips. At the Pololu Valley floor, you will see a stream with large trees. 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. All of the land upriver is privately owned. Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. I haven't yet hiked into the valley, only walked part of the way down the road. LANAI The Pololu Valley Lookout gives a spectacular view over the cliffs of the Kohala volcano. Large pebbles and stones cover the beach, making a satisfying rattling sound when the waves pick them up. Start early - like 730-8 in morning. The simplest is driving to the lookout for the views, but you can also make a small (but steep) hike to the valley floor to check out the beach. The majority of people at Pololu don't walk down, and each time I was at the beach it wasn't remotely crowded. To see which of our walks in the Kohala Mountains is the right one for you, browse real tips and photos uploaded by other hikersand see what they had to say about each walk. There is no lifeguard. 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. 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. The commissions help support Moderately Adventurous stay alive and kicking. So please, for everyones sake, locals and future Hawaii visitors alike, avoid those bushes! by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. We have been adventuring around the island for over 10 years and love living here. The trailhead begins at the end of the road. The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. 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. Island of Hawaii. we didn't end up going all the way. Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! Hike down on broken paved road. Please have a chat with them when you arrive to learn more about the area and treat them kindly. You continue through the village of Hawi (good spot for a bite & beverage), on narrow, winding roads with one-land bridges. 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. Most people visit just day camp on the valley floor into the late hours. Looking back into the valley you can see the waters of Pololu stream. Mahalo! Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. 5. It is unclear if the trail continues. Thats because its kind of in the far north of the Big Island, and a spot where not many other things are located. 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 . If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed "No Parking" signs. However, as it heads inland, you will get a peek at the Pololu Valley below. The photos he took were spectacular. The view of these lush valleys and cliffs into the ocean is stunning. 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. I hope you enjoy it as much as he did! 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 Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. The ocean at Pololu valley is not a safe place to go swimming. (driving directions using google maps). #1. Take your time at the lookout, and I bet you will have some time alone. GRAND CANYON AZ Its steep, muddy, rocky and slippery. 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. ATV tours in Kohala ATV outfitters take you on tours on private lands for 1.5 to 3-hour scenic tours and outdoor ATV experiences between Hawi and Polulu. 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. 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. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. The ascent on both ends of this hike will test your cardiovascular system but are well worth it. Hiking in the Waipio Valley is amazing. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. This hike starts at the parking lot near the Waipio Lookout. Gear: Standard hiking gear. If you hike- especially after rainy season- wear waterproof sneakers. Waipio Valley Hike (ROAD CURRENTLY CLOSED) I recommend parking up the street slightly so that it is easy to turn around and leave at the end of your hike. Whatever the situation during your visit do NOT even think about taking the coastline to the valleys beyond Pololu. Beyond that, though, the drive to & from is part of the experience. Waipi'o valley Hike: A 6.5 mile round trip of medium difficulty. All Rights Reserved. It only takes about 30 minutes to hike down to the valley from the scenic lookout. 4 Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall. We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. Or read my tips for PLANNING A BACKPACKING TRIP in a National Park. If it was dry I would have been fine driving it with our 4X4. In the late 1800s, many Chinese immigrants settled in the valley. WYOMING The road leading to the Pololu Valley Lookout has also been repaired - news release. Must cross water to go up the other side though. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. The Pololu Valley floor is beautiful with a river, campgrounds, etc. Learn how to MAKE THE MOST OF A GUIDED TOUR. I'm kind of leaning toward Pololu for that reason. The first section is steep as you climb the hillside into lush jungle-like surroundings. He went on our last day, we were leaving on a red eye and I decided not to do it. Check out He thought I would like it, so next trip for sure! A guy at the entrance said the trail is closed to hikers and cars until further notice. It is very wide, comforting during the Pandemic to maintain some space between you and other hikers. Located in the flourishing green pastures of North Kohala at the end of Highway 270, Pololu Valley is simply awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise. Right Colleen, I have read about the further hike across Pololu but forgot. Pololu Valley is located in north Kohala on the eastern slope of the extinct Kohala volcano at the northernmost point of the Big Island. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. The Pololu Valley Lookout; The hike into Pololu Valley; The black sand beach; Continue hiking to the next valley: the Honokane Nui trail; How to get to Pololu Valley; Things to do close to Pololu Valley; Pololu Valley history. However, it didnt last long, and I was almost completely dry by the time I reached the trailhead. Pololu Valley hike: This is a 2.5 miles round trip and is pretty easy. Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. The trail is Approaching Storm at Pololu Valley; Due to Frequent Rain Squalls Off the Pacific Ocean, Rain Gear is Highly . (Although you will pass through the cute Hawi town.). The stretch between the Pololu valley lookout and the black sand beach is only the first part of a more extended trail. Polulu Valley meaning Long Spear is revered in ancient history. Bryan C. Sacramento, CA. many unique galleries and shops worth exploring while you are in the area. (You can reach it from the beach, but it involves walking over lots of rocks.) 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? If you are trying to decide where to hike, Waipio Valley or here, this hike is MUCH easier. 7 . I can't seem to remember now which of the longer hikes we did, maybe Akaka Falls? NEW YORK Consider the Salomon Trail Sense trail running shoes, which have amazing grip and flexibility while still looking like a regular shoe. If you would like to learn more about living here, be sure to check out my Moving To Hawaii Resources for Hawaii Island. The views from the ridge are stunning into Honokane Iki and the trail leading downhill is relatively easy but note that the property on the valley floor is entirely private property and access is not permited (unless you know the owner) on the valley floor unless you can find the trail beyond which is not feasible at the moment because of over grown conditions. 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. It is split by the sublime Waipi'o River. 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. 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. You can see this now as a series of 7 valleys (a valley has a flood plane at the valley floor) of which Polol Valley is the most northern one. Theres also a trail that starts from the Pololu Valley lookout that goes down to sea level and makes for a great coastal hike. 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. . Big Island Hikes has another hike that proceeds over to an overlook for the next valley, Honokne Nui. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. The huge sea cliffs paralleling a beautiful black sand beach were simply amazing to look at. Fun stuff. OAHU Noel Morata is the creator of This Hawaii Life along with a small team of contributors. But the hike up is quite steep. The scenery is breath-taking with the rough ocean waves crashing against the sea cliffs and black sand beach on one side, and the densely forrested valley on the other. Once at Beach go left toward north side of valley opening. Both the Big Island and Maui have a diverse culinary scene with plenty of delicious food options to choose from. 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. Lots of water and snacks. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. Good to know: there are no public restrooms at the lookout or down in the valley. Image by: Floyd Stewart/Flickr. Steep but beautiful! For this reason it is both referred to at the Polol Trail and the wini trail. The trees break the wind on the valley floor, so I can see why this is a desirable camping destination. 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. Previously, earthquake damage had closed the Pololu Valley trail, but it is once again open - and it is a hike that you must do! 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.
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