Seacliffs tower above the endless ocean views. Verdant greens contrast against the deep sea blues. Above you are clear skies, and below is a valley rich with wonder and natural beauty. You’re at Waipiʻo Valley Lookout, one of the most iconic settings in all of Hawaii.
Waipiʻo is a small community of fewer than 100 people – residents who farm taro, fish from the water, and live off the land. Entry to the valley is restricted, but access to the lookout is open. And driving to Waipiʻo is an adventure that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
Looking for information on how to get to Waipiʻo Valley Lookout? Jump straight to the details here.
Can You Visit Waipiʻo Valley?
The only way for Hawaii visitors to go into Waipiʻo Vally is by booking a permitted, guided tour. This will be a driving tour down the steep road and through certain parts of the valley. You cannot walk or drive into the Waipiʻo Valley on your own.
However, you can access Waipiʻo Valley Lookout and see the views from above.
What Is Waipiʻo Valley
Waipiʻo Valley is a community on the Big Island that’s nestled deep within the valley of dramatic sea cliffs – some of which reach over 2,000 feet high. The valley is remote, and the road that leads into it is the steepest in America.
Its few residents live off the grid and primarily farm taro, fish, and live off the land.
A Historic Site
But Waipiʻo Valley hasn’t always been a small, quiet community. Some estimates put the pre-contact population at about 2,500 people.
A number of early Hawaiian aliʻi (royalty) resided in the valley, and it was the boyhood home of Kamehameha I, who went on to unite Hawaii under one kingdom.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the population of Waipiʻo Valley decreased and diversified to include Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, and Filipino farmers. In 1946, a tsunami destroyed homes, farms, and buildings in the valley. After that, few residents returned, turning Waipiʻo into the sparsely populated, off-grid locale it is today.
But even as the population of Waipiʻo decreased, its historic and cultural significance became even more meaningful.
Earliest stories from the valley place some of Hawaii’s most famous deities there, including Lono and Kane. Some stories even claim the demigod Maui died in Waipiʻo Valley.
The valley is also home to multiple heiau (Hawaiian temples), and it’s considered a sacred place.
It has ancient fish ponds and wild horses, and it showcases off-grid living and early Hawaiian traditions. There is also a black sand beach in Waipio Valley, along with freshwater rivers.
Waipiʻo Valley: Going Beyond the Lookout
Waipiʻo Valley is a mystical place. I know from my visit years ago, when tourists were free to drive up and down the steep, sharply curved road that leads to the valley.
No, I did not brave the road on my own. Nor did I dare hike into the valley (you could also visit by foot before access was restricted around 2020).
I was there for a horseback tour – and the trip included a van ride down into the valley. With gritted teeth and a firm grip on the side of my seat, I looked over the edge of the cliffside road, trusting that our driver knew how to navigate this unbelievably steep path.
Along the way, the driver dodged hikers making their way up and down the road. And other drivers – tourists in 4×4 trucks who had no business trying to drive into the valley. The road wasn’t wide enough for 2 cars, and they’d have to reverse to find a spot where they could pull over for oncoming traffic. They would have been much better off enjoying the sights from above, at Waipiʻo Valley Lookout.
But from the comfort of the chauffeured van, and – once I was within the valley – on the back of the horse, I got to see some of the most unique sights in Hawaii. Calm ponds rich with kalo, towering waterfalls, deep jungle, and breathtaking views. From the foot of the cliffs, I felt so small yet so full of wonder. Maybe I could understand why people were willing to drive or walk down the road to Waipio.
That was back in 2018. Today, a trip to Waipiʻo Valley looks quite a bit different, but it’s still possible.
How to Visit Waipiʻo Valley
Today, the horseback tour no longer operates within Waipiʻo Valley. However, there is a fantastic horseback ride you can take in a ranch above the valley. It’s probably one of the best places to book if you want an immersive adventure in Hawaii.
But, you can book a shuttle tour that will take you into the valley. You’ll board a van and be guided through Waipiʻo. Most of the guides are local and grew up there. They all understand the unique historical and cultural significance of the valley and will enrich you with your knowledge.
But, as we mentioned, you can’t go past the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout on your own anymore. Not by foot or by car. There are exceptions for Hawaii residents entering for traditional practices, like fishing. But for tourists, your options are as follows:
- Book a shuttle tour of Waipiʻo Valley
- Enjoy the sights from above, at the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
What to Expect at Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout is open to the public. The county-run site offers a place to park and look out over the valley.
You won’t spend much time here. There are parking spaces, a small pathway, restrooms, and an open green space. There are also informational placards that share the story of Waipiʻo.
Note – the walkway to the lookout area may be difficult for visitors with mobility challenges, but there is a railing to assist you during the walk.
Is it Worth Going to Waipiʻo Just to See the Lookout?
Yes, we think Waipiʻo Valley Lookout is a beautiful spot that shows the beauty of Hawaii Island. Even when access to the valley was open, many people came to Waipiʻo just for the lookout.
Additionally, the drive to Waipiʻo Valley is a great adventure for anyone who enjoys a Hawaii road trip.
Driving to Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout is located on Hawaii Island’s Hamakua Coast. The nearest town is Honokaa, a cute small town with antique shops, restaurants, and souvenir stores. Route 240, the road between Honokaa and Waipiʻo, is extremely scenic, so definitely be sure to enjoy that part of the journey!
From Hilo:
The Hamakua Heritage Corridor Drive will take you directly from Hilo to Waipiʻo Valley Lookout – just continue on as you go through Honokaa town. It’s about 50 miles long and will take about 1 hour 15 minutes if you drive straight there.
But, we recommend you stop along the way. Akaka Falls is at mile marker 13, and Laupahoehoe is a nice spot to stretch your legs and take in the views about halfway to the lookout.
From Kona
It’ll take you about an hour and a half to drive from Kona straight to Waipiʻo Valley lookout. You’ll take Hawaii Belt Road toward Waimea. Once you get to Honokaa town, continue on Route 240 toward Waipiʻo.
Your Big Island Vacation
Do you plan on driving out to Waipiʻo Valley Lookout during your next Hawaii Island vacation? We think that leisurely road trips are the best way to see the profound beauty of Hawaii – just be sure to respect residents and signage as you explore the islands.
And, if you need help planning a vacation with the best activities, sightseeing, and R&R, we’re here for you. Contact Hawaii Aloha Travel to get your vacation set up and ready to go – the toughest part for you will be waiting for your trip to finally get here!
