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. Hiking Hawaii - 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. 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). You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipio Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. 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. The cliffs of Pololu and valley are unspoiled and have been natural until the first arrival of humans into the valley around the 15th Century. Hot lava cools to its surface to create that smooth exterior. Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in the valley or at the lookout. Pololu Valley Beach (Big Island) Pololu Valley Beach is considered a hidden gem on Hawaii Island. Youre young and strong so youll probably finish in 2 hours. --Ernest Hemingway, Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, Re: Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u46mHlI3pD0. There are rope swings, campsites, and trails that lead in every direction. Both the Big Island and Maui have a diverse culinary scene with plenty of delicious food options to choose from. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. Your email address will not be published. " The hike down to Waipio valley is on a steep paved road, . many unique galleries and shops worth exploring while you are in the area. 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. 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). OAHU So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . Rating: 4 (out of 4) stars, would go again, Location: Trailhead is at the Pololu Lookout on the Big Island of Hawaii, Distance: 4.6 miles roundtrip (including the Honokane Nui Lookout). The Volcano Van - Big Island Volcano Tours, Holualoa Inn-Big Island Bed and Breakfast, Latitude: 20.20033933 Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Unfortunately, only the beach in this valley is public. Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. 02:09. The small town of Kapaau has I hope you enjoy it as much as he did! Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. Once on the valley floor, the flora changes abruptly into large ironwood trees just behind the beach. 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. The trail snakes inland and back toward the ocean as you make your way across the top of this hillside. Unfortunately, you won't find a short walk to this black sand beach in Hawaii. Mahalo! Saw one fisherman on the beach, and four vehicles passed us while hiking the paved section. My posts got a little jumb, My Rogue River fashion: layers of sunscreen, wide-, Tools to Plan a Sensational Trip for Yourself. Update 11/21/06 - State officials have reopened the Pololu Trail in North Kohala. It can be distressing for locals to see people coming out of the bushes near the Pololu Valley trailhead, presuming why people are coming out of the bushes. so sad! 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! Waipi'o Valley is a special place for an extra Hawaiian hike. Pololu Valley as seen from the trailhead. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. The Awini trailhead can be found on the trail that runs above the beach. by kenji SAITO on June 21, 2021. pic.twitter.com/D9gdoFolfq. I haven't yet hiked into the valley, only walked part of the way down the road. Absolutely beautiful. Check out all the fun details of this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. Unfortunately, as far as we know, you can no longer continue beyond this point. Please try again. 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 Once I turned around, the journey back to the trailhead went surprisingly quick. Consider the Salomon Trail Sense trail running shoes, which have amazing grip and flexibility while still looking like a regular shoe. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. We saw wild horses at the base of Waipio! We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. Approaching Storm at Pololu Valley; Due to Frequent Rain Squalls Off the Pacific Ocean, Rain Gear is Highly . We like to be doing actual hiking for about 2-3 hours plus the time to stop and take in the sights. 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. This is probably one of the best angles to photograph the coast and the mouth of the valley. 1:00-2:00: Drive to Waimea. If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. Recommend bringing an extra pair of socks and a towel if you plan on crossing the River. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. A gorgeous visit to Polulu Valley on the west side of Hawaii. Remnants from this landslide can still be found under water 81 miles (130 km) from the current coastline. Tried to hike to waterfall but it crosses into private property and couldnt get to it. 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 wont get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. It might take around 30 minutes to hike down to the beach from the lookout. A little off the beaten path, this hike was our favorite on the Big Island. Waipi'o Valley hike elevation: The elevation gain is approximately 975 feet on the steepest road . leave, so there is a lot of turnover for the parking spots. by Murph1 Tue Jun 24, 2014 2:36 am. This river is fed by agricultural runoff, so carefully consider how you treat this water before drinking. Looks good for potentially running also. Drive down the Akone Pule highway 270 and past the small town of Hawi. As we do for most places on the Big Island we recommend to visit Pololu Valley early in the day. Over all its 25% grade. ZION UT 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. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). Have fun. WHAT TO WEAR HIKING, 2023 Flashpacking America | US outdoor travel blog, Are you headed to another island in Hawaii from the Big Island? All of the land upriver is privately owned. How long does the Waipio Valley hike take? Your email address will not be published. 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. The earthquake from2006 is evidence of such. The majority of people at Pololu don't walk down, and each time I was at the beach it wasn't remotely crowded. BRYCE CANYON UT 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa'au. But I think it'd be a shame to miss North Kohala, and an added bonus is the "loop" drive whereas with Waipio, you have to drive the same way there and back ~ and deal twice with Waimea traffic, which can be tedious at times. The cliffs are also known to have landslides as the coast continues its process of erosion. The hike But, it's not a kid-friendly hike. Bummer! 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 are group tours that lead visitors directly to see the waterfall at Pololu called Kapoloa Falls, this is managed by Hawaii Forest and Trail. It's still worth coming here to enjoy the view from the lookout, which I believe is the most beautiful vantage on the island! 11:00-1:00: Take a Road Trip to Hip Hawi (#28) and explore Kapa'au. 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. All of the land upriver is privately owned. WYOMING Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. 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. The valley is deeply cut into the mass of Kohala mountain, with three thousand-foot cliffs and some waterfalls up to fifteen-hundred feet. How long is pololu Valley hike? Slick when wet. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. The views into Honokane Nui and the coast are simply stunning from the ridge. How to get to Pololu Valley. 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. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed "No Parking" signs. There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. Trailhead: Take Hwy. 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. The Kohala coast of the Big Island stunned me yet again. days, it is muddy and extremely slippery, Look to There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. The Pololu Ditch Trail into the valley leading to Kapoloa Falls was closed due to the Kona earthquake in October 2006. Encouraging women to try adventurous travel. The water here is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by very experienced swimmers and surfers. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. and is the oldest of 5 volcanoes that make up the Big Island. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. The trail down to the beach drops 400 feet in 20 minutes of hikingbe warned, the hike up is difficult for those not in good physical shape and the hike down should not be attempted if you have doubts about being able to hike back up. https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3094/720. 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. Instead, you must walk down a rocky hiking trail for about 20 minutes. 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! 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! From the valley floor it is a short and easy stretch to the beach. Although the ground is rocky . After hiking Waipio Valley, it was about an hour and 20 minute drive to the . Glum, cement and cars. 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 are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. On Dec 7, a lava boat was spotted floating down channel. Both lookouts are crowded, AmyNoelle, and finding a parking spot can be an initial annoyance. If you want to drive instead of hiking down, you'll need to . . Book your tickets online for Pololu Valley Lookout, Island of Hawaii: See 1,143 reviews, articles, and 1,562 photos of Pololu Valley Lookout, ranked No.18 on Tripadvisor among 501 attractions in Island of Hawaii. I recommend heading inland, and youll see a stone-lined walking path. If it was dry I would have been fine driving it with our 4X4. SNORKELING SHIRTS Although this is lovely, I recommend further exploring the Pololu Valley and continuing to hike to the Honokane Nui Lookout. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. Kaloko-Honokhau National Historical Park, Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, Ka Desert - Mauna Iki Trail from Hilina Pali Road. 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. There was a bit of muddy spots on the flat part of the road/trail, but easily navigable. But in 1946, the most devastating tsunami in Hawaii's history swept great waves far back into the valley. I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. After one more switchback inland, you emerge from the trees to see the view at Honokane Nui Lookout. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. Depending on recent rains and time of year it can be relatively low or quite high. Otherwise, you can park along the side of the road before that dead end parking lot too. Most people visit just day camp on the valley floor into the late hours. The strenuous Z Trail can access this wild valley, otherwise, it was required a chopper tour to see 6:30-11:00: Hike into Pololu Valley. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. Be careful when it rains, very slick. Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! 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. So I guess I do believe in miracles. Wild horses, stray dog that followed us at the hip and protected us, amazing views, a river crossing, wild fruit along the way (pomelo). MAHALO! My husband did this hike a couple of weeks ago and loved it http://www.bigislandhikes.com/puu-waawaa/. Followers 1. Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley. 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. The road was wet while we were there so I'm glad I didn't try to drive it. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. But the hike up is quite steep. IDAHO Pololu valley is at the northern tip and part of the oldest (of 5) volcanoes that make up the Big Island of Hawaii. The Big Island of Hawaii is simply a treasure trove of beauty. 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). to the bottom, head for the black sandy beach (the small trails that follow the 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. He said there is a rock fall risk and it wont be opened again until repairs are completed. 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. Youll arrive down to the black sand beach! Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. PEARL HARBOR HI 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. 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. I recommend parking up the street slightly so that it is easy to turn around and leave at the end of your hike. It means its yet another quieter part of the Big Island, and it means its yet another nice scenic drive getting there! During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. MOUNT RUSHMORE SD We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. 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. NORTH DAKOTA Please share your thoughts and comments below. It is located on the west side of the island. 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. There is room for about 10 cars at the end . picture taking. 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 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. 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. You have to turn around. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Please treatt hem with aloha and follow their directions. After you pass mile marker 28, you'll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. This is a gorgeous walk with stunning views and one of our 5 favorite hikes on the Big Island! 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. Waipi'o Valley hike distance: The round trip hike from the lookout parking lot to the black sand beach and back is just over 3 miles. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. Locals only. Theres a bypass trail just a few feet away from the road around the muddiest areas at the bottom and before the beach. The roundtrip hike goes down about 420 feet to the valley floor To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Check out the other things I did on the Island of Hawaii: Have you done the Pololu Valley Hike or the Waipio Valley Hike? Youll save yourself the tight corners and the wait by parking up the street. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. The black sand beach at the valley floor looks like a beach at the end of the world. Colleen is correct about Pololu Valley, it's beautiful and drive there is as well. 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. Near the top of the ridge you'll reach a small plateau with a large rock. Amazing is an understatement. 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. 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. Download your copy of our You If youre challenged to extend your hike, consider going beyond to the next valley on the Honokane Nui trail to reach the Honokane gulch. I recommend bringing along some slip on shoes to change into crossing, then back in hiking boots/shoes on other side. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. That is why only a part of the hike is described here. Island of Hawaii Tourism Island of Hawaii Hotels Island of Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Island of Hawaii Holiday Rentals Island of Hawaii Packages Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. No . NEW YORK Answer 1 of 11: What is the best way to see Polulu Valley and Waipio Valley? 6. If there is no room, wait or come back another day. The trees break the wind on the valley floor, so I can see why this is a desirable camping destination. It's a short but steep hike, and parking is . Theres a small parking lot at the end of the road. 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. If you feel like having a very good workout this is the hike for you! We'll update this page if and when it reopens. LANAI 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. We were devastated to hear that this access road may remain closed until 2025! We would love to see things that are truly unique to big island; we have hiked (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is very wide, comforting during the Pandemic to maintain some space between you and other hikers. 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. THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND What locals living near Pololu Valley would like you to know! 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. If you do, please be mindful that you are visiting sacred land. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! Most people only drive to the end of Hwy. You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. MAUI However, they are not easy to walk along! 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. 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). By syr101, October 30, 2014 in Hawaii. Permanent signs are posted saying road closed and no pedestrians. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. Maybe its best to think of this as a half day activity. The mounds of sand behind the beach are a fun place to spend some time. Come prepared! It then passes through 12 smaller gulches on a . Click here to read my full disclosure policy. It can get especially hot and sweaty during the hike up!
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