Big Island Sights

Guidebooks

Waipio Valley

Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  

Waipio Valley Review

Bounded by 2,000-foot cliffs, the "Valley of the Kings" was once a favorite retreat of Hawaiian royalty. Waterfalls drop 1,200 feet from the Kohala Mountains to the valley floor, and the sheer cliff faces make access difficult. Though completely off the grid today, Waipio was once a center of Hawaiian life; somewhere between 4,000 and 20,000 people made it their home between the 13th and 17th centuries.

To preserve this pristine part of the island, commercial-transportation permits are limited—only five outfitters offer organized valley trips and they're not allowed to take visitors to the beach: environmental laws protect the swath of black sand. And on Sunday the valley rests.

A road leads down from the Waipio Valley Overlook, but only four-wheel-drive vehicles should attempt the very steep, treacherous road. There are no roads on the valley floor, and the going is often muddy. The walk down into the valley is less than a mile from the lookout point—just keep in mind the climb back up is strenuous.

    Contact Information

  • Address: Hwy. 240, 8 miles northwest of Honokaa, HI, 96727 | Map It
  • Location: Hamakua Coast
Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Out of a Fairy Tale!

    We took a horseback ride into the valley after stopping at the overlook and it was fantastic. The lush, green valley looks like something out of a fairy tale!

    by Rockgirl, 7/19/07
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Worth it with a tour

    Absolutely dangerous without a tour--even with a four wheel drive, most companies will not let you take their car down there. Unfortunately, people attempt it anyway, making the narrow winding roads even more dangerous to the rest of us.
    We took the mule drawn carriage tour and loved it! It really takes you back to ancient Hawaii. Our tour guide actually is one of the 50 people who live there and she showed us how the waterfall near her house is her "running water" It really is a step back in time.
    Please take one of the tours down there (they are very inexpensive) so you don't add to the problem.

    by Golnarsarge, 5/8/07

Add your own review

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

· Browse Big Island sights

By Location

 Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas

Travel Deals in Big Island

View all travel deals
* Some taxes, fees additional

· Forums Trip Reports

View more trip reports

·

  • Kauai golf

    My son and I are first timers to Hawaii, and are looking for a memorable, non-threatening or pressured golf experience. Read more

View more travel discussions

· News & Features

View more blog stories