Waipio Valley Tours and Activities
41 Reviews
Forming a deep natural amphitheater that’s washed by the sea and waterfalls, the Waipio Valley, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a natural wonderland marked by rain forests and hiking trails. Cliffs thousands of feet high plunge to the valley floor, where a curved black-sand beach meets the sea.
The Basics
Known for its rich history and its natural beauty alike, the “Valley of the Kings” offers experiences for just about every type of traveler. Ride ATVs while learning about the valley’s lore, snap photos from the Waipio Valley Lookout, soar above 2,000-foot (610-meter) cliffs in a helicopter, or spend the day visiting some of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls, including the towering Hi’ilawe Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Waipio Valley is a must-see for adventure travelers, history buffs, or first-time visitors to the island.
- Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Don’t attempt to drive a rental car into the valley; the road is extremely steep and many rental agreements prohibit it.
- Hiking down to the black-sand beach requires a high level of physical fitness, but anyone can enjoy the views from the Waipio Valley Lookout.
How to Get There
The stunning Waipio Valley is located on the Big Island’s northern Hamakua Coast. The roads here are notoriously steep and should only be accessed by four-wheel drive, horseback, or organized tour (from Kukuihaele).
When to Get There
Since the views are one of the biggest draws, plan to visit on a clear, sunny day. November is the wettest month on the Big Island, and rain tends to impact how much of the valley is visible. Organized tours typically don’t run on Sundays.
Sacred, Mythical, Historical Waipio Valley
The Waipio Valley was once the home of many of Hawaii’s past rulers, and has great sacred and mythical significance. It was here where Kamehameha the Great (the first ruler of a unified Kingdom of Hawaii) was proclaimed the future ruler of the islands by Kakailimoku (a Hawaiian god). It’s also the site of several important Hawaiian temples, or heiaus.
Address: Highway 240, Honokaa, Hawaii 96727, USA
Admission: Free
3 Tours and Activities to Experience Waipio Valley
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Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History
1090
The Big Island of Hawaii has a diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on the planet, and on this day-long nature tour, experience the beauty of its black-sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If you’re lucky, find Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the coast. Since the tour only requires a moderate amount of walking, it's an educational adventure for travelers of all ages, with snacks and refreshments included.
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From
$193.72
From
$193.72
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Small Group Waipio Valley and Waterfalls Adventure
244
See three of the Big Island's most famous waterfalls in a single day on this guided tour. Travel along the Hamakua Coast to Akaka Falls, Hi’ilawe Falls, and Rainbow Falls, and swim at a private waterfall.
Learn about the history and legends of the island from a guide. Lunch, snacks and hotel transport are included.
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From
$208.38
From
$208.38
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Experience Hawai'i Big Island Helicopter Flight from Kona
109
Look down on the varied landscape of the Big Island from the air on a helicopter tour from Kona. This flight is longer than typical heli tours and provides the opportunity to be wowed by Hawaii’s amazing natural features, from waterfalls to volcanoes to rainforests. Fly along the coast and over Waimanu and Waipio valleys, and spot island industry like macadamia nut orchards. Upgrade to guarantee a window seat.
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From
$615.00
From
$615.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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