Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
variety of nature lovers, recluses, pot farmers, hippies and locals seeking to reclaim their
history. Kukuihaele is now home to vacation rentals and tour providers.
MULIWAI TRAIL SAFETY
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Streams beyond the valley are subject to flash floods. If it rains hard, choose your
fords carefully.
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Don't drink untreated water. Feral animals roam the area and leptospirosis is
present.
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Check shoes and sleeping bags for centipedes, which can deliver a painful bite.
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Bring a signal flare for emergencies, as sightseeing helicopters are common.
Sights & Activities
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
LOOKOUT
Located at the end of Hwy 240, this lookout provides a jawdropping view across the val-
ley. One of Hawaii's iconic images.
Waipiʻo Valley Hike
HIKING
To explore the valley on your own, first you need to get down into it, by taking the in-
credibly steep road from the overlook to the valley floor. Then follow the road to Waipiʻo
Beach and explore from one end to the other. From the far cliffs, the adventurous can fol-
low the King's Trail to swim at Nanewe Falls.
The road down from the lookout is to be taken seriously, no matter how you tackle it.
If by car, you must have a 4WD, and use your gears for braking. Do not attempt it other-
wise, as the road has a 25% grade and ends in a rutted mess that becomes a quagmire
when wet. The trip is about 15 minutes. If you hike down (45 minutes), make sure you
have tightly fitted shoes, as the pitch of the pavement will tend to jam your toes. If you
can't hitch a ride back up, the return trip can be exhausting for those not used to strenu-
ous effort. There's no shade, so bring water.
Once on the valley floor, follow the road to
Waipiʻo Beach
, passing the twisted re-
mains of some vehicles that took the quick way down. There are bathrooms near the be-
ginning of the black sand beach, which has rip currents and a treacherous undertow, so
don't even think of swimming here, even if you see local surfers in search of its daunting
