Located at the very end of the road, the Pololu Valley Lookout offers stunning views of the valley and coastline. If you’re up for it, there is a hike into the valley that is one of the highlights of this tour. The black sand beach at the bottom is totally worth the trek.

The hike is short at just under a mile round trip, but its steep elevation makes it a moderate hike so take it slow. We recommend you only go if you’re physically fit and wearing the right shoes for the walk.   

You may be greeted by one of the Pololu Trail Steward Program volunteers. They are there to inform and educate visitors about the cultural and historical significance of this valley, as well as help monitor the beach and trail. Treat them with aloha and please follow their directions.

Also, do not stack rocks. This is considered vandalism. Help us respect the land by picking up your trash and leaving the trail better than you found it. 

Note: There are no restrooms at the lookout or in the valley. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.

Hours: The trail is open year-round. 

Our first stop gives you the chance to walk in the footsteps of a king! Pu'ukohola Heiau is a culturally significant heiau, or temple, for both the legendary King Kamehameha and Hawai'i. This specific heiau was built by King Kamehameha as a way to fulfill the prophecy that he would one day unite the Hawaiian Islands. The heiau was dedicated to the war God, Ku.

On your visit you’ll learn more about this temple and its significance in unifying the Kingdom of Hawaii. We recommend watching the five minute introduction video then walking the quarter-mile path to see the massive temple up close. While you’re there, you might see cultural practitioners. Feel free to ask them questions to learn more about this sacred spot.

Pro Tip! If you have the time and want to keep walking, there is a half-mile loop trail that takes you down to Spencer Beach Park. 

A visit to Lapakahi State Park will transport you back in time over 600 years ago when an ancient Hawaiian fishing village once stood on this spot. While you’re there take a self-guided walking tour of the park to learn about the sustainable fishing and farming practices used by Hawaiians.

The entire walk takes about 45 minutes if you go down to the beach -- don’t forget to pick up a brochure so you can understand what you’re seeing. This is a great place to dive deeper into the history of Hawaii and see how the people here once lived. 

Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Gates lock at 4 p.m.

Fee: None

Pro Tip! You can download the Lapakahi State Hstiorical Park brochure here. 


As you enter the small town of Kapa'au we’ll drive by the original bronze statue of King Kamehameha the Great. You can get out and take some pictures or just drive by. On the way, you’ll learn about a shipwreck that almost prevented this statue from reaching Hawaii!

At this point in the tour, you might be ready for a snack. Hawi is the perfect place to stop if you’re looking for a quick bite, some tasty ice cream, or a cup of coffee to keep you fueled for the rest of your adventure. This quaint town is located on the northern tip of the island and features eateries, galleries and boutiques in the old, plantation-era buildings that line the streets.

This tour really showcases King Kamehameha’s ties to the region, and there’s another, subtle spot along the drive where you can learn about this famous Hawaiian figure and his legacy in Hawaii. On your way to Pololu Valley, you can pull over to the side of the road to see a rock that legend has it was lifted by Kamehameha himself! 

As you drive down the Kohala Mountain Road you will have the opportunity to pull over for a scenic lookout point. We highly recommend this stop which offers panoramic views ranging from Waimea to Kailua-Kona. If you happen to be here later in the evening, this is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! 

Waimea Town, located in the heart of Paniolo Country, is an artsy ranching town known for its quaint bed and breakfasts and cowboy history. Waimea also has lots of amazing restaurants, quaint shops, a theatre, art exhibits, farmers markets, historic ranches and an astronomy center. It's a great place to stop to grab a bite or explore.

Learn about the first lady of ranching, Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske, at this historic site that’s dedicated to the rancher. The historic home is filled with family stories spanning five generations! 

Tours are offered twice a day on Tuesdays or Thursdays. Advance reservations required.

The name of this park is Ulu La’au which means ‘circle of trees’ in Hawaiian. It’s a great place for a stroll or a picnic to relax next to a flowing stream

The Parker Ranch Headquarers in Waimea offers self-guided tours of their historic homes and grounds. Built in the 1800’s, the houses are packed with art, antiques and other historic relics that help tell the story of the Parker Ranch. It’s a great way to experience what life was like on this iconic ranch throughout the years.  

Note: Self-guided tours are offered three days a week and require paid advance reservations. See their website for availability and admission fees.