WAIPIO VALLEY, HAWAII'S BIG ISLAND

Located on the northern Hamakua Coast, the sacred Waipio Valley was the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I and an important center for political and religious life in Hawaii. Not only is "The Valley of the Kings" an important site for Hawaiian history and culture, it's also a place of dramatic tropical beauty.

This fertile valley is about one mile across and over five-miles deep, and surrounded by cliffs up to 2000-feet high. Waipio Valley was once the home for thousands of native Hawaiians. Today, there are less than 100 residents living amongst the waterfalls, taro fields, and rivers permeating the valley. The Big Island's tallest waterfall, Hiilawe Falls cascades down 1,300 feet in the back of Waipio.

You can view the valley from the coastal Waipio Valley Overlook, or you can take a guided van tour, hike, or horseback ride to explore the hidden wonders within. Tour guides will happily share the stories and legends of this special place. The road into the valley is extremely steep so driving isn't recommended.

QUICK FACTS

Name:

Waipio Valley

What is it:

Sacred and historic valley with dramatic tropical beauty

What to do:

View from Waipio Valley Overlook, take a guided tour by van, by foot, or by horseback

What to bring:

Camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, food and water

Directions:

From Hilo, take Hawaii Belt Road (HI-19) north up the Hamakua Coast then take Waipio Road (HI-240) to the Waipio Valley Lookout at the end of the road

Admission:

Overlook is free. Admission varies by tour.