Pololū Valley Lookout — Attraction in Hawaii

The entirety of nature on the Big Island is beautiful. However, when you stand on the cliff edge and see the Pololu Valley it will bring a tear to your eye and have your heart slip a beat.

The splendor and majesty of the valley are unparalleled and truly a wonder of this world.

It is unfortunate we didn’t plan accordingly and were not wearing appropriate footwear to attempt the 0.6 mile hike down into the valley. I guess it’s just another reason to return to the island.

The hike down is not long but the incline is steep. Wear appropriate shoes and if you have hiking poles bring them.

There is very limited parking at the lookout so be prepared to park along the road.

Getting to the lookout is an easy drive along 270 from 19 and takes you along the coast. If you want to add some excitement and elevation take 19 to 250 to 270. This route winds up and down the side of the mountain from Waimea. I believe the highest elevation is 3500 above sea level.

Highly recommend adding this to your list of “must-do” while on the Big Island.

This valley will reset...

We came here for sunrise so we got there very early when it was still dark out. We watched the sunrise first at the lookout, then we hiked down to Pololu Valley and the beach. Be careful descending as the trail is full of sandy rocks. It was dry when we went but can get slippery. At the base of the trail there was a pond with the valley behind it. What a magnificent sight. This was where King Kamehameha I grew up in hiding before he conquered and united all the Hawaiian islands. There was a sign that beyond the trees was sacred burial ground. Please respect it and do not go in. When we came back up we ran into a couple locals who work/ volunteer there, one of them was Auntie Sara. She told us her ancestors were buried in that ground. She also discouraged people from stacking rocks and if you see any stacked rocks to remove them please as they are considered vandalism. She also said to be careful hiking down, wear good shoes as they have had to rescue several people along the trail from broken bones/ sprained ankles. Beautiful place, and please respect the...

This is a free attraction with free parking along the side of the road. NO restrooms!!

We went on a Friday at 10:00AM and brought along protein bars and lots of water.

The hike down the mountain is about half mile of steep rocks and large tree roots that have grown out of the surface. It’s best to keep your eyes on the ground and plan your steps as you are walking and hiking through the mountain.

The hike back up is challenging-I took a few breaks and brought a towel inside my backpack to sit on (on a rock).

The view is amazing. The natural beauty of the mountain and the ocean meeting the land is absolutely stunning.

There is no cell phone service as you begin to hike down the mountain, and there are no lifeguards or workers to assist the visitors.

If there is an emergency, the team at the top can use their satellite phones and call for help.

I recommend taking a walking stick, go early during the day/morning before it gets too hot, and bring plenty of water and snacks (like apples or protein bars).

It’s...