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Pololu Valley
Kohala Coast Overlook
On a sunny day, you will see the vibrant blue and green ocean crashing into the rugged sea cliffs and the deep green carpet of vegetation lining the sides of the valley. A short walk to the lookout reveals the many folds and creases of the inner part of the valley which drop into a rich, green floor. Lines of ironwood trees divide the lush valley from the grainy black sand beach that meets the ocean.
Early morning is the best time to visit, when you'll have a chance of snagging a parking space in the small lot. Pololu is the end of a string of seven major valleys carved into the northern Kohala Coast of the Big Island which ends with Waipio Valley. This now uninhabited valley was once used to grow taro. The root of the taro plant is pounded down and mixed with water to create a purple paste called poi, a staple of the traditional Hawaiian diet.
Pololu valley is located at the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala. On your drive up Highway 270, be sure to stop for a look-see in the quaint town of Hawi. The highway ends at the picturesque lookout for this valley. At the top you can look down on Pololu valley and a beautiful black sand beach (Pololu Valley Beach). If you are in for a day of adventure you can hike down into the valley on a long zigzagging dirt path called Awini Trail. The valley is fed by a meandering stream. Once in the valley, you can look back at the spectacular views and possibly see some waterfalls.
The public trail descends steeply to the shoreline and can be slippery. DLNR lists it as 0.6 mile one way. Wear proper shoes and carry water. Choose the lookout if you are not prepared for the descent and climb back. Check current trail alerts before visiting, and follow posted signs and the stewards' directions.
Stay on the public trail and beach access. The valley includes private land and culturally sensitive burial areas. Do not venture inland or continue toward neighboring valleys. Stay off the dunes, leave rocks in place and pack out your trash.
Check the official Pololū Trail record for current alerts and read Protect Pololū's visitor guidance before your visit. Older route descriptions do not establish permission to continue beyond public access.
