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.
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.
Beautiful hike down to valley with trees, stream, beach. Not too difficult going down but can get pretty hot and strenuous going back up. Super slick if it is raining. Walking sticks are left at the trailhead, so that is nice. Absolutely amazing views of the cliffs and the ocean.
This is a wonderful hike with superb views; we've done it several times over the years. Sadly, it's been adversely impacted by the humans. Trash everywhere - both from the sea and from the idiots who don't pack out. Every year it gets worse.
Remember to take insect repellent.
Phenomenal! Completely worth it, decent traffic but unbelievable views and some great little trails at the bottom. A lovely drive in, with some super cool places to stop and get food or little souvenirs on your way out of town.
Great views all the way from top to bottom. Steep back up but not too bad since it's covered partly.