ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-93711639', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Big Island in August and only have time for one of these. Or, you can eat at restaurants at the hotels. Also, I keep hearing about the traffic in Kona, how bad is it. A lush tropical forest surrounded by almost 500 ft high cliffs and fronted by an ocean that more often than not has high surf and rough waves. Pololu Valley is located in north Kohala on the eastern slope of the extinct Kohala volcano at the northernmost point of the Big Island. Icelands South Coast: How to Get From Vik to Skaftafell [+ Best Ring Road Trip Stops], Whale Watching in Husavik: The Ultimate Guide+ Tour Review, Diamond Circle Iceland Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide + Map. What are some good splurge or special occasion restaurants on the Big Island? Image credit: Georgios Tsiminis. Pololu is not on the way to/from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Awesome ocean views all the way down to the beach. Sign up for our free monthly updates (more info) about everything that is new and happening in Hawaii. We will be in Kona one day on a cruise, renting a car, and want to do some hiking and swimming. 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 read more about this waterfall at the worldofwaterfalls website. Agree that it's probably best to go to Pololu first, and beaches on the way back - except if you get an early start, I'd try to do a quick stop at the beach at the Mauna Kea resort. The path washes away, so you have to do it on a dry day, and when you get down, its a bit anticlimactic. Explore and enjoy, and then turn back and walk down to the shore of the ocean. Yeah, it was, interesting I had been through the Northridge 'quake in SoCa, too, with some other lesser quakes. Enjoy this 0.9-mile out-and-back trail near Kapaau, Hawaii. To get down to the valley floor you must either be a Big Island resident and have your own 4WD car, or be willing to pay for a tour. Image credit: Georgios Tsiminis. here's an even better photo (a 360 degree panorama) of the trail at Pololu beach. Awini Trail: 478 Reviews, 1,385 Photos, Map - Hawaii, Hawaii | AllTrails The views are incredible. (read more about the geological history of Kohala). Forgot to mention - when you're on the #270, if skies are clear you'll be able to see Maui wonderful views! We have also gone down for a horse back ride, and I have twice hiked down, across the beach and up the other side about half way. As it became a more popular destination (thanks Instagram), crowding increased, some rockfalls and . Polol valley is the most northern of the impressive valleys that are carved into the Kohala volcano at the lush green pastures of the Kohala region on the Big Island. Don't wear sandals, Crocs, flip-flops, Birkenstocks, etc. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. There is a lookout point between the parking area and Waipio Valley where you can get a stunning view over most of the valley and the high sea cliffs stretching out to the west. 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). 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. It is not an all day thing unless you want it to be. 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. Waipio valley was home to old Hawaiian kings and once upon a time was densely populated. This Stunning Big Island Valley Is Drawing Bigger Crowds And Note ancient cobble stones still embedded in sections of the trail. Make a game out of it. Privacy Policy. The town of Honokaa near Waipio is worth a stop if you go to Waipio - I think Hawi has more character, but Honokaa is an interesting town as well. Pololu Valley (famous views!) Hike to Pololu Valley beach OR just see I will check out those historical markers that you mentioned. Where can I can find a good church service with some local flavor? Waipio Valley Information, Photos & More - Hawaii Guide On the way to Pololu, you can visit Lapakahi State Historical Park and the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. The valley meets the ocean towards the north with a beautiful black sand beach that is cut in two by the river. As a first-time visitor to the Big Island I didnt know what to do so I got some local knowledge on where I could go to make memories. 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 road shared with vehicles. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. It's pretty short and very steep. Couldn't cook in the restaurant kitchens, so they set up BBQs outside and they cooked/baked/roasted whatever they could. Emerald, foliage-filled cliffs, cradling Pololu's valley floor and its winding, freshwater stream. north to south or vice versa. I got the feeling that she gave the same recommendation for one reason or another just to stop people from hiking down. 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. I do hope you hike down the trail from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Pololu has more rocks on the shoreline and not a place I would swim. 8am-6pm. There are several levels of visiting Pololu valley. Take the Puako turn off the highway and head north for the access. The earthquake of 2006? Trail is a perfect hike. Where do I stay to visit the east side of the Big Island and/or to see volcano? In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. How long of a stay at Pololu do you think is adequate. I included a couple of beaches on the route (Hapuna and Waialea) that would be worth checking out on the Kohala Coast. If you are very lucky (or unlucky, that depends on how much you mind the rain) you can see the Kaluahine Falls on your right hand (east) side once you get to the beach. Better to go down to the next spot at Hapuna State Park. There's a black sand beach there, as well, and there are steep sea cliffs just like Waipi'o. They are not trail guides and I wonder on who's authority they act, if any. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-112271019', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Big Island tourist site (e.g. Turbulent surf crashing on the black sands of the valley's rocky beach and shoreline. Wear good shoes for the descent/ascent part. I don't think the difference is time are much. Dont let AllTrails fool you, its actually closer to a 900 foot elevation gain! So it can be best to visit these beaches for the views only! I think those days are past me now, though the last time I did it I was 70. Park your car in the small parking lot that is literally at the . In Pololu Valley, a lush tropical forest surrounds 500-foot-high cliffs and fronts, an ocean that often has high surf and rough waves. We did the hike down into Pololu Valley to the black sand beach. Report inappropriate content jgil Columbia, Missouri Level Contributor 93 posts 28 reviews 38 helpful votes 2. Wai'pio Valley vs. Pololu Valley - Island of Hawaii - Tripadvisor Pololu is a relatively easy walk down and up for the healthy, albeit with some challenging footing. Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. Waipi'o Valley Road is a county road that used to be treated mostly just like any other road, despite being the steepest road in the USA. All the things Chi-Dave mentioned are great, and Hawi town is a great stop. Honopue. The Mauna Kea had some major damage, so they brought over some guests from there for the rest of their stays. I think Pololu Valley has more to offer on your way to / from it, than Waipio. We will be in Kona one day on a cruise, renting a car, and want to do some hiking and swimming. There is a somewhat steep dirt trail that leads to the valley and the beach (black sand, not good for swimming). You absolutely work for it on the way back up but even then its still very doable. Your options to get down to the valley floor with a tour range from: Explore majestic Waipio 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. Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in the valley or at the lookout. here's an even better photo (a 360 degree panorama) of the trail at Pololu beach. The valley and black sand beach at the bottom are beautiful. Pololu Valley Lookout is at the end of Hwy 270. Also, I keep hearing about the traffic in Kona, how bad is it. The parking is just along the road because the parking lot is 10 minute parking only. Shorter hike down, not on a road. We went to the big island during our honeymoon. High surf, undertow, and rip tides are frequently present so only go in the water if you are a good swimmer and dont get in too deep. 3. 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. Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley - Hawaii - Cruise Critic Community Waiulili Falls - Ocean-Bound Waterfall by Waipi'o Valley Its steep but not overly strenuous and you will be rewarded with lovely vistas. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-1665103', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');rental car firms will allow you to drive even their 4x4.s into the valley.. Take heed take a tour for your safety. She didn't seem to work for any authority. This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. If I LOVE the Mauna Lani, where would we stay on Maui? If you take the time to drive all the way to Pololu Valley at the end of Highway 270, don't settle for the view from the overlook! It's a magical place. I have a car rented at King. 8am-6pm. In part though it depends where you are starting your trip from. The Hiilawe falls (center left) are visible from many points in the valley. Small parking lot at end of the road at trailhead. Good idea to get the car at the King Kam hotel to eliminate the extra time needed for shuttles. Short but steep. Level Contributor 1,672 posts POLOLU VALLEY - 284 Photos & 80 Reviews - Yelp Liliuokalani Gardens. Shares the beach area with the Prince Hapuna Beach Hotel. Hiking Pololu Valley to Honokane Iki Valley kenjiSAITO Or, you can eat at restaurants at the hotels. Pololu Valley lookout parking (views!) + What's the trailhead parking Locals and tourists alike were free to drive or walk the road (although it was marked as a 4x4 only road). Cookie Notice Makes for a really good mindfulness practice. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. Fortunately, they only had some cosmetic cracks, even though some of them were pretty scary-looking. If you have any other suggestions don't be afraid to give them. Swimming in summer should be good. A geotechnical assessment outlining the rockfall and landslide risks associated with traveling along Waipio Valley Road has led the County of Hawaiis to close Waipio Valley Road to visitors. It's a very well maintained trail and the views at every point are just beautiful. It is drier than Waipio and lacks waterfalls, but it is lovely in its own way. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. From scenic overlook, hike down steep rocky trail to beautiful black sand and rocky beach with views of the Hamakua coast. Snorkeling & diving on the Big Island - Kona Coast & Kohala Coast options. Polol translates to " long spear" in Hawaiian and is named for the many battles that took place in the region. 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 road shared with. On your way through Hawi if it's lunch time or close try Bamboo- i love the ambience,, and their fish is good. Maybe I'm incorrect in my assumptions. Polol Valley is the first valley from the right. Woman in parking lot "recommended" not to hike, due to weather. During or after rains the trail can be slippery and because of the relatively steep average grade of the trail (13%) we rate the difficulty as moderate. Great for first-time visitors. I do not think either is advised as a good swimming place. The drive to the Lookout is worth it in any case, for that iconic view and photos. Waipio Valley lookout parking + What's the parking like? The sign says it's 1.2 miles and over 800' of elevation gain. Photo-centric trip reports of the Big Island? Polol Valley Lookout or Waipio Valley Lookout - Tripadvisor Pololu Valley, in contrast, is visited less frequently, and most visitors don't even know that you can hike down to the beach from the lookout point. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos. Beautiful view at the end and cool rocky beach! The waterfalls that you can see in the final scenes are the Kaluahine Falls which you can only see on rainy days from the ocean or the valley floor. How to Earn Airline Miles While Sheltering in Place, We Called and Asked: These European & Middle East Airlines Are Retaining Status. Manageable trail for anyone reasonably fit, though it's definitely uneven and required careful footing in places. The only people who have any business in the water might be experienced surfers when surf conditions are just right. Looking for general advice on visiting the Island of Hawaii. The beach is split in two by the river coming out of the valley, and depending on the amount of water it can be difficult to cross. Trail is slippery when wet and is rocky or packed clay. Hiking shoes encouraged, but not impossible in tennis shoes. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Locals will take those spots fast first thing in the morning, then leave later. Pretty similar views I suppose, you can easily check views with a quick google search or visiting pretty much any (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? These hikes, however, are not easy. The vista that greeted me when I arrived to the valley outlook was breathtaking. For wither, you get to walk along shore. Mahalo! From Hilo, take 19 going west until Honokaa and take Highway 240, looking for signs for Waipi'o Valley. Pololu Valley Lookout | Go Hawaii p.s. Need info on backpacking and wilderness camping, Resort Fees on Big Island & Other Islands, Browse all 30,517 Island of Hawaii topics . Beautiful spot to meditate if you go early (8 am) to avoid crowds. Afternoon trip was good, with shade on the way back up. 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). Locals will try to get some wave time in before heading to school/workThe gate keeper is pretty strict on how many cars he will even let through to look for spaces. The black sand beach at Pololu Valley can be rocky if a storm has washed away the black sand. Some, if not all, car rental companies here on the Big Island explicitly mention in the rental agreement that it is not permitted to drive your rental car down into Waipio valley. The beach looks beautiful and is a very good place to relax after coming down into the valley, but take care with going into the water. I would choose Pololu - there are some nice beaches to stop at on the S. Kohala coast (although you could incorporate those into a Waipio drive as well) - but the drive up #270 and down #250 provides a lot of amazing scenery, which for me would be the deciding factor in favour of Pololu. 5. Its a 90 minute adventure if you hang out for a while in the valley. Pololu Valley Beach Hike. We spent the last day on the Big Island valley hopping and checking out a remote cabin on a private beach.