Waipio Valley is one of the broad, Eden-like green valleys sealed off from the outside world by sheer, thousand-foot-high walls.
This isolated corner of the island is a favorite destination for tourists, who usually just peer over the cliff edge down onto the valley then go away. For hikers who are connoisseurs of fine beaches, waterfalls, and Hawaiian culture, and don’t mind a short hike, take a few minutes to walk down to Waipio Overlook to enjoy the view of the valley. Rain-drenched, dazzlingly green Waipio Valley is one of the Big Island’s most famous beauty spots. However, some of the waterfalls may be dry: their streams are tapped “topside” for irrigation, so there’s little water left to cascade down into the valley. The overlook offers the best views you’re going to get unless you decide to tackle the switchbacks you’ll see zigzagging up the west wall of Waipio Valley. This is an excellent place to take your photos of Waipio, too.
Activity Type: Hiking
Nearby City: Honoka’a
Length: 2.8 total miles
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Skill Level: Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
Season: Year-round
Other Uses: Four-wheel drive vehicles
Local Maps: USGS Kukuihaele
Topo Map: Waipio Valley Topographic Map
Guide Book: Hiking the Hawaiian Islands Guide Book