Pololu Valley is my favorite of all the valleys on the north coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. As you reach the outlook you will see a beautiful black sand beach down below and a stretch of dense tropical sea cliffs. Although you can get some great pictures from the outlook, I would recommend hiking down into the valley to get the full experience.
There is a rocky trail that winds down the side of one of the cliffs that takes about 15 minutes to get down into the valley. Taking a couple of bottles of water and sunscreen would not be a bad idea. While walking down the trail you will come across a couple of spots that some of the most beautiful pictures of Pololu Valley are taken at. The hike is challenging and it is worth reminding yourself that the hike up will be more challenging and hotter. If there is inclement weather or the trail seems unsafe it will be closed down.
Once you reach Pololu Valley, there is a beautiful black sand beach and a stream that runs back into the valley. The left side of the beach is really sandy as far out as you can go, but the right side is rocky. Pololu Valley is a great surf spot so typically you will see a lot of surfers. Due to currents and the seclusion of this beach, it is known as one of the most dangerous places to go swim. If you are not familiar with the waters of the area we highly recommend not attempting to swim. Also there are more valleys to the side of Pololu Valley. Although it looks like you can walk along the edge of the valley to get to the next valley you should not do this. The tides do change and you can easily find yourself not being able to get back to the valley.
After you spend time on the beach adventure out into the valley. You will find several trails that travel through the lush landscaping and back into the valley. You can get some amazing pictures of the valley along these trails. Throughout the trails you will see lots of wildlife, man made swings, and much more.
Most cell phone services do not work in or around Pololu Valley so do not plan on being able to call one another if you are within the valley. There are a few parking stalls at the top of Pololu Valley, but for the most part people need to park on the road leading up to Pololu Valley. Also at the top of Pololu Valley is an information tent with a person there to make sure guests are informed about the valley. There are not any restrooms or amenities at the top or at the bottom of the valley. The closest restrooms are at Keokea Beach Park, which is about a 5 minute drive from the lookout.
Pololu Valley is located on the northern tip of the island and there are not places to stay near the Valley. Most vacationers stay on the Kohala Coast and then take about a 45 minute scenic drive north to Pololu Valley. If you are looking for a place to stay, there are some really nice vacation rentals at Waikoloa Beach Resort to choose from.
