Waipio Valley

 
An ABSOLUTE stunning view! 

From the black sand beach in the valley, cross the river to get to the other side of the valley.

Walk along the black sand beach or...

...take the trail.

View of the black sand beach from the other side of the valley.

View of Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley offers beautiful black sandy beaches, hiking trails and horseback riding. Keep in mind, this is not your typical busy tourist spot. Most visitors get only as far as the look-out point. The steep downgrade into the valley limits the number of visitors. Simply put:  "1 mile down, 10 miles up".

Enjoy the view from the look-out point or take your chance and challenge your 4-wheel drive vehicle down the steep 25% grade into the valley. I do not advise you take a regular vehicle down this steep road - there are remnants of vehicles that didn't make it.

Once you are down at the valley, drive towards the beach and take in the beautiful view. Enjoy the waves crashing on the often secluded beach. Waipio beach offers picnic tables and portable restrooms.

And if the drive down wasn't challenging enough for you, cross the river and walk towards the other end of the valley. Look up and you will see a zig-zag trail which leads up to Waimanu which is the next valley over. Camping is allowed in Waimanu Valley but requires a permit. Please check with the Division of Forestry and Wildlife in Hilo, Hawaii (808-974-4221).

Hikers, be very CAUTIOUS when hiking up to Waimanu. Going up the zig-zag trail is steep and even experienced hikers have trouble with this hike. Take breaks and enjoy the view of the valley.

I don't recommend a day hike to Waimanu. After going up that streneous zig-zag trail, the last thing you would want to do is go back down the trail. Plan it out, take your time and camp the night.