Similar to Kauai's Na Pali coast, the Waipio Valley on the north shore of the Big Island is a verdant succession of valleys and steep cliffs tumbling into the sea. Waipio Valley is the eastern valley of this collection and is the most accessible with a small track leading down to it. There is a small Hawaiian and alternative European community living in the valley, farming taro (staple Hawaiian root crop) in the swampy marshes and living a secluded lifestyle. The appeal to share this tranquillity has ironically turned Waipio into a small commercial tourist attraction. Access to Waipio Valley is via a rough and extremely steep road access by 4WD only or a 20-minute hike. Once in the valley, you pass back in time. The long sweeping black sand beach is hemmed in either side by steep valleys, both of which have waterfalls tumbling right into the sea. The waterfall on the east side was featured in Kevin Costner's film Waterworld. The sea can be treacherous at times and is only safe for swimming and surfing in calm conditions. Waipio is a friendly community and it is a good place to stroll around and take in the breathtaking views of the river valley and Na'alapa Waterfall. Horse riding tours of Waipio are available and for the more sedate, horse drawn cart rides. It is possible to hike deep into the adjacent valleys, passing numerous streams and gulches, ancient taro terrace plantations and temple foundations - these trails are quite rough and not well marked and should not be undertaken by inexperienced hikers. Camping permits are available from the Division of Wildlife and Forestry in Hilo.
Our top big island travel attractions are:
1) - Archaeological sites of the ancient Hawaiians
stone foundations; temples; petroglyphs; Captain Cook memorial
2) - Volcano National Park,
lava flows; volcanic crater; walking trails; unique flora
3) - Hiking Waipio Valley,
lush valley, black sand beach, waterfalls, strenuous hiking
4) - Waterfalls and Botanical Gardens of Hilo,
Tropical rainforest, short trails, cascading waterfalls
5) - Waimea Countryside and Pololu Valley,
horse riding; cattle ranches; valley and coastal trails;
6) - Summit of Mauna Kea,
13,796 feet; observatory and star gazing; snow in winter;
7) - Kona coffee and Macadamia nut farms - South Kona
coffee tasting; tours; bed and breakfast
Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:
Cook Islands Activities Guide
Fiji Activities Guide
Samoa Activities Guide
Tonga Activities Guide
Tahiti Activities Guide
Hawaii Activities Guide
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