Pololu Trail is a 0.9 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Kapaau, Hawaii that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
dog friendly
kid friendly
birding
hiking
nature trips
trail running
walking
beach
forest
views
wild flowers
wildlife
muddy
rocky
From scenic overlook, hike down steep rocky trail to beautiful black sand and rocky beach with views of the Hamakua coast. Waipio is the southeastern most of the Hamakua coasts dramatic stream valleys. Pololu is the northwestern most of those valleys. It is drier than Waipio and lacks waterfalls, but it is lovely in its own way. Pololu Valley Trail, from the lookout down to the valley takes less than 30 mins to walk. Its steep but not overly strenuous and you will be rewarded with lovely vistas. Trail is slippery when wet and is rocky or packed clay. Note ancient cobble stones still embedded in sections of the trail. Caution, as high surf, undertow, and rip tides occur in the ocean here. Coming back uphill is easier (no loose rocks). The black sand beach fronting the valley stretches for 900 yards and makes for an enjoyable stroll.
Such a great quick hike. Semi-challenging in wet conditions but spectacular views. I'd highly recommend!
One of the best Big Island hikes! The view point itself is fantastic, but if you're willing to go a little further, other adventures await, such as:
More views, wild berries, rope course, bamboo forest, secluded beach and more!
This trail kept both of my boys (a timid 12 and an ever-bored 16) entertained and excited!
We went to the second beach (you can see it from the view point) - track of my return route is uploaded here. Here is what the hike is like:
1. Hike down to the beach like everyone else.
2. Cross the river bed (unlike 3 years ago the river no longer seems to enter the ocean, so fording is not necessary).
3. Walk across the pretty beach
4. Climb the next hill on a narrow trail. It can get slippery when wet (and you should be prepared for the rain regardless of the forecast), so good hiking shoes and trekking poles are highly recommended (you'll thank me as you descend:))
You will encounter countless bushed of the regular (yellow) and strawberry (red) guava, all edible.
5. You'll come to a viewpoint on the top with another great view and yes, a bench!
6. After taking a break here, descend down into the next valley. You will come to a fork, take a left here. Soon you'll get to a nearly straight descent with a bunch of ropes helping you (very doable and fun)
7. At the bottom of the valley you'll follow a narrow trail through a bamboo forest and come to a shallow stream flowing to the ocean. There will be cairns there to help you find your way back (which is equally fun!), and even a bamboo pole to help you cross the river by walking over rocks (no fording is needed here either).
8. Follow the stream to the ocean for 5 minutes and the beach is all yours! Lots of crab there:)
Great trail with wonderful scenic views
Not too hard for kids. The black sand beach worth it!
My favorite hike on the Big Island. Once you reach the bottom of the trail, you are rewarded with a beautiful valley, a black sand beach, and a great shoreline.
Beautiful trail and black sand beach. Well worth the effort. Make sure to hike through the woods and catch the views of the valley as well!
short and checks all the boxes. view, established trail, and parking. Beach, cliffs, and Valley views.
This is not to be missed. Great views, sunny or cloudy. We had the benefit of a dry trail for easier going and rough surf for more interesting views. As others have mentioned, recommend good shoes with traction and poles. Enjoy more of the beach area than the map shows.