Big Island Beach
Waipio Valley
Valley Access Notice
Access to Waipio Valley is restricted under Hawaii County's 21st Amended Traffic Emergency Zone Declaration, in effect since February 2022. Waipio Valley Road is closed to the general public. Vehicle access is limited to Hawaii County residents, permitted tour operators, and Native Hawaiians. Pedestrian access is prohibited.
Tourist access to the valley floor is available only through authorized shuttle and tour services. The Waipio Valley Lookout is open and free to all visitors.
The emergency road closure has been in effect since February 2022 and has been extended over 20 times. Check with Hawaii County Parks & Recreation for the latest access updates.
Waipio Beach's raw beauty is stunning, but swimming here can be dangerous. As with many Hawaiian beaches, the surf can be high and rip tides treacherous. There are several accessible coastal waterfalls to your right as you are facing the ocean. Approximately 10 minutes of rock walking along the coast should guide you to Kaluahine Falls. If this one is dry, and many times it is, just another 20 minutes or so down the coast is Waiulili Falls. Make sure to exercise extreme caution while walking along the coast. Never turn your back on the ocean and try to attempt the hike at low tide.
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