Top Reasons to Go to Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii

First, if you have a four wheel drive vehicle, there is no reason for you not to visit the Waipio Valley on the Big Island. To get into the valley, you have to take Waipio Valley Road. This road is not for the faint at heart. It is a forty-five degree angle all the way down and the only way to make it is with 4WD in low gear. It is a single lane road and folks going down have to yield to folks coming up. If you do not have a 4WD vehicle, take a tour ride in with Waipio Valley Shuttle (808-775-7121) or Waipio Valley Wagon Tours (808-775-9518). Each tour is only an hour and a half long, and unfortunately limits your time in the valley.

Secondly, because it is so difficult to get into Waipio Valley, it has some of the most secluded beaches on the Big Island. Not only that, but the beaches are black sand. The Waipio Valley surf can be rough, so swimming is not generally recommended unless the water is calm. Once you are on the beach head east towards Kaluahine Falls, these falls are sometimes dry, but if you continue walking along the beach (it is a little treacherous over boulders so be careful) you will come to Waiulili Falls. These falls are over one-thousand feet and fall directly into the ocean, it is just magnifecent.

Thirdly, the green lush valley is a natural wonder. It is full of some of the tallest waterfalls in the country, including the 1600 foot Hiilawe Falls. And, if you are into off-roading, this is some serious terrain. There are signs that try to prevent cars from going through, but according to the authorities, the roads are for public access.

The residents of Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii have it good, despite not having the modern day comforts of television, phones, or power (they do use solar power and generators for electricity), and have kept it well hidden from visitors for a long time. If you are looking for an adventure while visiting the Big Island, Waipio Valley is the place to go.