View from the Waipi'o Lookout
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The lookout is about an hour and fifteen minute trip from Hilo if you don't make any stops. On the way you pass by some small, deep and lush valleys as well as a few beach parks. The last (and only) significant town you pass through is Honokaa. Grab a picnic and head for the lookout, There is a nice grass area where you can relax and enjoy the fantastic view of the front of Waipi'o Valley. The road into the valley is very steep (a 25% grade). In order to do any sightseeing in the Waipi'o, you must either ride down in a four wheel drive vehicle* or hike down into the Valley . The Waipi'o Valley shuttle, which collects people in front of the Waipi'o Art Works in the village of Kukuihaele, can take you down for a fee. If you have the chance, check out the Waipi'o Art Works in Kukuihaele. They are well-stocked with a wide variety of beautiful hand-crafted items, from koa rocking chairs to exquisite chess sets and jewelry boxes. Be sure to say "Hi" to Richard, the owner, if you happen to see him as you sip on a cup of hot Kona coffee watching the world go by in this quiet and cozy spot along the Hamakua coast. * Note: Car rental contracts prohibit driving any four wheel drive rental vehicles down into the valley. And for good reason: The road is extremely steep, one-way in many sections, and borders a shear cliff. |
Let's go down to the beach!
| Once you get down to the bottom of the valley, take a right to head for the beach. All along the black sand beach Ironwood trees blow in the breezes. People camp beneath the trees, fish the waters and go surfing. If you're lucky, you just might see spinner dolphins frolicking in the waves. Just south of Kailua-Kona is Kealekekua Bay, a federally-protected marine sanctuary where these dolphins congregate. If you feel tempted to go out and play with these dolphins off the beach at Waipi'o, BEWARE: The surf and currents can be hazardous; exercise great caution when considering going out for swim. |  |
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The
switchback, or Z-trail as valley residents call it (above), on the
far side takes you to Waimanu Valley. It's for experienced backpackers.
While it is possible to go to Waimanu Valley and return to Waipi'o
all in one day, just remember, you're in Hawai'i and on vacation.
If you're going to Waimanu, plan to go for at least a couple of nights.
Be aware, though, there are no formal camping facilities there.
All food and water must be packed in although there are freshwater
springs. Drink untreated water, however, at your own risk. If
you go for it, here is your reward! |
| Waipi'o has lots of feral horses which escaped from their corrals many years ago. These are wild horses, but they're quite friendly and may visit you as you spend a relaxing afternoon on the beach. Here are a few more images of Waipi'o wildlife. |  |
