Waipio Valley provides a trip back in time as the “curved water” after which it is named continues to carve a path through the southern segment of Kohala Mountain that has resulted in three thousand-foot cliffs, picturesque waterfalls and a lush landscape.
The three-mile hike includes a nearly 1,000-foot descent from the parking lot, but takes hikers along the mouth of the valley that looks back toward the famous Hiilawe Falls.
The trail leads to a beautiful black sand beach, and while it is possible to hike into the valley, permission must be granted first as lots occupied by residents and taro farmers are not open to the public.