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Waipio Valley
The road into the valley is incredibly steep and out of respect for the residents we do not encourage driving into the valley. However, we have been told that it is fine to walk in and hike to the beach, but do not explore the interior of the valley without a tour guide.
History
For the Hawaiian people, Waipi'o is more than just a beautiful place, it holds deep spiritual significance. Often called the "Valley of the Kings," Waipio was home to many ali'i (ruling class). King Kamehameha received a statue of his war god, Ku, here and was told he would one day rule the islands. Because of its fertility, Waipio became a rich farming area, producing abundant taro and bananas.
Oral histories of Waipi'o claim that anywhere between 4,000 and 10,000 people inhabited the valley before the arrival of Captain Cook in 1778. So many generations of Hawaiians have lived and died in Waipio that it is considered to be full of their mana (spiritual power). In fact, the cliffs of the valley were often used as burial sites for rulers and chiefs. The spiritual quality of Waipio is further enhanced by the presence of several heiaus, including a place of refuge similar to Pu'uhonua o Honoaunau on the south part of the island.
The population of the valley was diversified in the late 1800s when Chinese immigrants moved in and began farming rice in great quantities. It may be hard to imagine, but at one point this valley had schools, restaurants, churches, and even a hotel and post office. However, in 1946, life on the Big Island changed when a devastating tsunami hit this side of the island. It completely washed out the valley, although miraculously, none of the residents perished.
The tsunami did not claim lives in the valley, it did however change it. Today only approximately 50 people call the valley home. It is a peaceful, simple existence, which makes it understandable that anyone who seeks such a serene environment would not be keen on lots of visitors. Waipio hosts a colorful cast of characters, from farmers to old time hippies. Disputes between residents do occur, mostly over land rights, but are settled in the valley. Additionally, a few "rogue farmers" who grow the pokalolo plant (marijuana) have been known to set up booby traps to protect their crop. It is for this reason we recommend only visiting the beach on your own and seeing the back of the valley with a guided tour. For a unique experience, try the horseback Waipio Valley Guided Tour.
To reach Waipi'o take Rte 19 North out of Hilo. Turn right onto Rte 240 towards Waipio. Take this road until you reach the Waipio Lookout.
For the Hawaiian people, Waipi'o is more than just a beautiful place, it holds deep spiritual significance. Often called the "Valley of the Kings," Waipio was home to many ali'i (ruling class). King Kamehameha received a statue of his war god, Ku, here and was told he would one day rule the islands. Because of its fertility, Waipio became a rich farming area, producing abundant taro and bananas.
Oral histories of Waipi'o claim that anywhere between 4,000 and 10,000 people inhabited the valley before the arrival of Captain Cook in 1778. So many generations of Hawaiians have lived and died in Waipio that it is considered to be full of their mana (spiritual power). In fact, the cliffs of the valley were often used as burial sites for rulers and chiefs. The spiritual quality of Waipio is further enhanced by the presence of several heiaus, including a place of refuge similar to Pu'uhonua o Honoaunau on the south part of the island.
The population of the valley was diversified in the late 1800s when Chinese immigrants moved in and began farming rice in great quantities. It may be hard to imagine, but at one point this valley had schools, restaurants, churches, and even a hotel and post office. However, in 1946, life on the Big Island changed when a devastating tsunami hit this side of the island. It completely washed out the valley, although miraculously, none of the residents perished.
The tsunami did not claim lives in the valley, it did however change it. Today only approximately 50 people call the valley home. It is a peaceful, simple existence, which makes it understandable that anyone who seeks such a serene environment would not be keen on lots of visitors. Waipio hosts a colorful cast of characters, from farmers to old time hippies. Disputes between residents do occur, mostly over land rights, but are settled in the valley. Additionally, a few "rogue farmers" who grow the pokalolo plant (marijuana) have been known to set up booby traps to protect their crop. It is for this reason we recommend only visiting the beach on your own and seeing the back of the valley with a guided tour. For a unique experience, try the horseback Waipio Valley Guided Tour.
To reach Waipi'o take Rte 19 North out of Hilo. Turn right onto Rte 240 towards Waipio. Take this road until you reach the Waipio Lookout.
Location: Waipio Valley is located in the North Hamakua Coast Region
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