Also known as the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipi’o Valley is a site that will not disappoint. With a lush green valley, a black sand beach, and sapphire-colored water, Waipi’o Valley is an iconic site to visit on the Big Island. It is located on the northern coast, and contains several waterfalls, which are either dangerous to find or blocked by private property. You will probably get the most satisfaction (and safety) out of visiting the black sand beach in the valley. However, if you’re up for an adventure, check out Muliwai Trail Hike or Waimanu Valley.
Getting to Waipi’o Valley + Parking
Address: 48-5546 Waipio Valley Road
To get to Waipio Valley, turn onto Highway 240 at Honoka’a. You will follow this road for about 9 miles until you reach the lookout point. There is a small parking lot, with no fees or charges. The parking lot is small, but people usually come and go quickly, instead of hiking down. If you wait a couple of minutes, you should be able to get a parking space. Otherwise, use caution when parking on the side of the street.
Driving down to the valley is highly discouraged, as the roads are narrow and SUPER steep. It will wear and tear on your car, and it might just be against the policy of your rental vehicle. However, there are usually locals around who offer rides round trip for about $15-$30.
Time
If you’re planning to just stop and admire the lookout, you’ll probably spend about 20 minutes here. It’s a great spot for a picnic, as there is a pavilion with tables and benches.
If you’re planning to hike down and explore the valley, expect it to take longer—probably about 1-2 hours.
The Mo’olelo (the story) of Waipi’o Valley
Waipi’o was once home to the kings of old Hawaii. It is named after the Waipi’o river that flows through it. Waipi’o, pronounced wai-pi-o, means “curved water,” as the river runs its own course. King Kamehameha, the great king of all the Hawaiian Islands, received his calling in the Waipi’o valley, leading him to conquer each island. The valley was once heavily populated but a tsunami caused devastation in 1946 and the valley now has a few inhabitants, homes, and taro fields.
The Trail
Hiking down to Waipio Valley can be hard on your legs. It’s very steep and, combined with the humidity and jungle-like atmosphere, can be very hot. So wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring some water, and take your time. When you get to the bottom, turn right towards the beach. If you turn left, you will come across the small community and private property. Please be respectful of private property and the no trespassing signs, as these are local residents. The beach is public access, so feel free to explore around there. On your way to the beach, be prepared for mud, as the ground is not paved.
Are there bugs or wild animals at Waipio Valley?
Note that there are wild horses in the valley. They won’t bother you, but just be aware that they are there. There are also mosquitoes, so be sure to wear some repellant.
Swimming at Waipio Valley
The black sand beachfront is beautiful but don’t be deceived. The current is especially strong in the valley, so swimming is discouraged. The break can also be rough. There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk. I like to just enjoy the view, put my feet in the water (to cool off), and walk along the shore. The black sand is so unique and beautiful, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it!
I love going to Waipio Falls. I never got to enjoy it growing up in Hawaii, because my parents rarely took us to the “touristy” places, but it is definitely a gem! I hope you get to see and enjoy it!
Akaka Falls is one of the Big Island’s easy-to-hike waterfalls. It features a 442-waterfall cascading down a lush cliff face. It’s budget friendly and only about a 20-30 min drive from Hilo. If you’re coming from Kona side, it might take about 1.5-2 hours depending on which way you drive (Saddle road or around the Hamakua coast).
Either way, Akaka Falls is an easy and affordable site to see on the Big Island.
Getting to Akaka Falls + Parking
Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728
The drive is easy and Google or Apple Maps will take you right there. There is a little parking area, which you can park in for a fee of $5. But you can also park on the side of the road right outside the park for FREE. Entrance to the park is $1. It’s probably fastest to have a dollar cash on hand.
Time
You’ll probably spend about 30 minutes (or less) at Akaka Falls. It’s an easy walk with beautiful views. It’s perfect for kids too!
The Mo’olelo (the story) of Akaka Falls
Hawaii is full of legends and mo’olelo of the land. Akaka falls was named after Chief ‘Akaka, who had a lovely and faithful wife. He made a home for them in this lush forest, but he had affairs with two mistresses, Maile and Lehua. When his faithful wife found out, he fled, with his dog, from her in shame. So quick was his departure, that he didn’t look where he was going and fell over the falls to his death. His dog waited atop the waterfall, loyally waiting so long that legend says he turned into the stone atop the falls. His wife mourned his loss and it is said she is the falls nearby, Kahuna Falls. Maile and Lehua also mourned his loss and legend says they are the smaller falls on either side of Akaka Falls, still weeping over his death.
The Trail
When you enter the state park, you will approach a fork in the trail. One says the “Circle Route” and the other takes you straight to Akaka Falls. I suggest taking the Circle Route—and know that it’s just one big circle trail so doing the Circle Route ensures you’ll see everything.
Enjoy the scenery and beauty of the walk! You’ll see bamboo, tropical flowers and leaves, and the large Banyan trees. One of my favorite plants is the red ginger. There is also a multitude of native birds, mostly honeycreepers, so enjoy their beauty and variety as well.
You will pass Kahuna Falls, which is difficult to see but you can hear it well.
CAUTION: Be careful on the trails, as it’s usually wet and rainy and the trails can be slippery!
Finally, you’ll reach the beautiful Akaka Falls. There is a lookout spot where you can take pictures (or hide under a pavilion if it’s raining).
I hope you enjoy your time at Akaka Falls!
Other iconic sites on the Big Island:
Waipio Valley, Big Island
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach (see honu, turtles, here!)
Volcano National Park
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As someone who grew up on the Big Island, it’s easy for me to recommend it as the ideal Hawaii destination. There is SO much to do on the Big Island, and so many beautiful places to see. From colorful sandy beaches to lush waterfalls, you’ll be in awe at the things this island has to offer. This article features the top 10 places you must see on the Big Island.
Waipio Valley is breathtaking.
Waipio Valley
There are two major valleys on the Big Island: Waipio and Pololu. Waipio is much steeper and harder than Pololu, and much more crowded. But each has their own beauty. Waipio dawns a black sand beach, wandering horses, and a river dividing the valley in half. You can enjoy the view from up top, or opt for an adventure and hike down.
The hike is one mile long but is incredibly steep. Hikers should walk on the right side of the road in the direction they’re going, allowing other hikers and cars to pass by. At the parking place, a group of locals have a shack, where they charge $15 one way per person. Many people opt to ride down because it saves a lot of time. We walked and it was fine, just very hot and humid so be sure to take a lot of water and something to wipe yourself off when you’re done (because you’ll be soaking with sweat). A great place to go after this hike is Tex Drive-In.
Akaka Falls is surrounded by a lush forest. Definitely a must-see.
Akaka Falls
This is one of my must see sites on the Big Island, as it’s a class and favorite falls. Akaka Falls is a long waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The entrance fee is $1 and parking is free if you’re outside the gates (usually you’ll have to park outside the gates anyways because it’s so packed). Akaka falls is tall and beautiful, and the mini hike to it is full of lush greens and vibrant gingers and flowers.
South Point has gorgeous lookouts of the ocean and cliffs.
South Point + Green Sand Beach
This place fascinates me and keeps me coming back by its beauty and its unique location in the United States of America. It is the southern-most tip of the country and many people jump off it. Even if you don’t jump, the beauty of the cliffs is breathtaking. Whenever we go to South Point, I always bring a couple jugs of water so that we can rinse the salt off our bodies before jumping back in the car. There are many signs that say not to jump, so really you’re jumping at your own risk. Be careful climbing the ladder because it’s pretty rusty and I cut my leg on it the first time I jumped. It’s still a really neat experience. 🙂
Green Sand Beach is a hot hike but it’s definitely worth it!
Hiking to Green Sand Beach is not an easy feat, especially because the sun and sticky salt can make you feel sweaty, hot, and even dehydrated. Many people opt to pay $30 for a ride from the locals that takes you to and from the beach.
I love walking along the beach and finding shells. I’ve found some beautiful, large shells while walking along the rocky shores to the Green Sand Beach. There are also a lot of ugly things, like trash along the shores, and bunches of trash floating in the distance. When you’re walking along the path, the red dirt can stain your shoes and stick to your legs and ankles.
I would recommend having: sunscreen (apply and keep reapplying), hat, sunglasses (the light can get really blinding after a while), and lots of water. We took our lunch from Punalu’u Bakery to the Green Sand Beach.
Once you reach the beach, you can hike down to swim in the water, or you can find a shady spot by the cliffs to rest.
Rainbow Falls
With this falls being free, it’s easy to put this on the top ten must see sites on the Big Island. Free to the public and located in Hilo, Rainbow Falls is a beautiful, strong, rushing waterfall. Depending on the rain, the falls can be trickling one day and surging the next. Use caution when walking around because the rocks on the trails can be slippery. This is a great spot for pictures, plus it’s free!
Volcano National Park + Thurston Lava Tube
The park has a multitude of hikes. One of my favorite hikes is the Crater rim hike because you get to see the steam vents, and get up close and personal with many of the beautiful native plants. This is a hike that should be easy for the whole family. Keep an eye out for Liko Lehua, the flower most prestigious and well-represented in Hilo. It is a red flower that has tiny strands sticking out so it forms the shape of a small ball. There are also many native birds at the park, and I would highly recommend just taking the time to listen and enjoy the diversity of Hawaii.
The Thurston Lava Tube is an easy and fun hike for the whole family. The lava tube isn’t very long, but it’s still fun to walk through it. Entrance fee for the park is usually $25 and provides a pass that lasts for a week and a half.
Coconut Island
This is a fun place to go for a picnic and swim. The popular thing to do at Coconut Island is to jump off one or both of the two towers. State events, parties, and other activities are usually held here. You will see people fishing, paddle-boarding, and there are places for little children to swim. The island has views of the hotels. If you are watching, you can sometimes see whales in the distance. Parking here is very limited, so if it’s a nice day, hurry on over! 🙂
Hapuna Beach is the white sand beach of the Big Island. It’s so beautiful + calm.
Hapuna
One of the only white sand beaches on the Big Island, Hapuna stretches out, allowing a plentitude of people to share its area. The only limits come with parking. If you don’t get there early enough, you could be circling the parking lot, waiting for a spot to open. There is a park fee of $5 for non-Hawaii residents.
The place offers food and shave ice (it’s very pricy, like $5 for a small shave ice) but I recommend bringing your own food and lots of water.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is a great place to see honu (turtles).
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
The black sand looks like tiny particles of black rocks. The beach is known for the many turtles who rest on its shores, and for the tiny tide pools that children can play in. You will find many locals here playing ukulele, barbecuing with family, or fishing on the outskirts. It’s a great gathering place.
Parking fills up fast, and if you aren’t there quick enough, you might have to park on the side of the road. There is a shower to rinse off as well.
Queen Liliuokalani Garden
Hawaii’s last queen had a garden on the Big Island. She would visit every now and then, and the cultures blending perfectly in this little area. The gardens are full of red bridges and toris, and the little ponds once held many koi fish. Bamboo shoots and other plants grace the garden. It’s a very beautiful area for relaxation, with the sounds and smell of the ocean in the background.
Hilo Farmers Market
Visiting the Hilo Farmer’s Market is one of my favorite things to do on the Big Island. Local vendors come from all over Hilo and sell their goods. There are also many Filipino and Chinese vendors, selling dresses, jewelry, and other goods not made in Hawaii. Just because you bought it in Hawaii doesn’t mean it’s made in Hawaii. I still love looking at all of the art and jewelry. A lot of my jewelry has come from the Farmer’s Market and local jewelry makers.
On one side of the Farmer’s Market vendors sell vegetables, fruit, and other produce. There are also vendors selling bentos and food. I love the Filipino food from the Farmer’s Market because it reminds me of the Philippines. There are also vendors selling Chinese food, Spam musubi, jam, jelly, honey, cookies, and pretty much any food you can think of. I love the Vietnamese vegetable spring rolls with peanut sauce so keep an eye out for that! I also love the Filipino sweet sticky mochi rice.
So there you have it! These are the top ten places I love to see and visit in Hawaii. With the beautiful diversity of the Big Island, you’re sure to have a grand time! In the comments below, let me know which places you want to see the most—or if you’ve gone, what was your favorite place on the Big Island?
Wishing you a wonderful adventure,
Leialoha
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English is the language spoken in Hawaii, with Pidgin English and Hawaiian trailing behind it. While you don’t have to learn the Hawaiian language to be able to communicate on the islands, it is helpful to know a few of the most common Hawaiian words. Here are the most commonly used Hawaiian words that you should know before you go.
Aloha
Hello, I love you, Goodbye. This is the most common greeting in Hawaii. When greeting others, a kiss on the cheek is a common cultural exchange.
E Komo Mai
Welcome, come on in. You might see these especially at entry ways, or when people are greeting you.
Mahalo
Thank you.
A Hui Hou
Goodbye, until we meet again.
Kane
Man, male.
Wahine
Woman, female.
‘Ono
Delicious.
Wikiwiki
Quick, hurry, fast.
Kama’aina
Local, resident.
Honu
Turtle.
Honi
Kiss.
Ohana
Family.
Keiki
Child.
Hale
Home, house.
Pau
Finish, done.
Mauka
To the mountains. Used when giving directions.
Makai
To the sea. Used when giving directions.
Aina
Land.
Lanai
Patio, porch, veranda.
A’ole Pilikia
No problem, no worries.
With these common Hawaiian words under your belt, you’ll be sure to know what’s going on. And, in case you want to print these words for on-the-go, I made an infographic below! Now you can carry these common Hawaiian words with you and learn them too! 😀
Have fun on your trip!
Sincerely,
Lei
Can’t make it to Hawaii? Change your mindset and get there faster!
Did you know that changing your mindset can help you get to Hawaii? Create paradise wherever you are with my FREE Ebook, “Bringing Aloha Home.” With these simple principles, you can change your mindset, which will change your life and bring more peace and less stress. Get your FREE instant-download ebook by signing up below!
As someone who has grown up in Hawaii, I can’t help but rave about the delicious food the islands have to offer. I put this list together to help you find some of the best local food in Hawaii. All of the islands offer these delicious local food, and I’ve named a couple of great restaurants + islands that have these foods.
I promise you’re going to LOVE these when you try it! I’ll even give you a little explanation of what each one is. When you actually try it though, you’ll be savoring every bite and exclaiming, “Ono!” (which means “delicious” in Hawaiian ;)).
Shave Ice
This is a classic Hawaiian treat/local food, a refreshing way to get away from the heat of the day. Shave ice comes in all shapes and colors, but I recommend getting ice cream on the bottom of your shave ice because it adds that extra pop. 🙂 Some of the most popular shave ice shops on Oahu are Matsumotos Shave Ice and Aokis on the North Shore. On the Big Island, there is a shave ice shop at the Hilo Bayfront.
Poke Bowl
If you don’t like raw fish, give this a chance. Poke is cubed ahi tuna that is marinated in shoyu (aka soy sauce), sesame seeds and oil, and mixed with onions. You can also get other flavors, like one of my favorites, the spicy poke. My favorite Poke Bowl is from Foodland, aka Sack n’ Save. Make sure to say yes to furikake and shoyu on your rice. And, if you don’t want to commit to a poke bowl, at least try the samples.
Acai Bowl
Wow Hawaii has sooo many places with AH-MAZING acai bowls! An acai bowl is a beautiful, thick fruit + acai smoothie topped with granola, bananas, coconut, and other healthy goodness. You can find acai bowls at Banzai bowls in Oahu, Farmers Markets, or even food trucks on the side of the road.
Laulau + Rice
This is a traditional luau dish and local food favorite of Hawaii. When you order laulau and rice, you’ll receive a plate with a wrapped and cooked bunch of luau leaves, also known as taro. When you cut into these soft, dark green leaves, you’ll find pork. The richness of the taro leaves, along with the saltiness of the pork is absolutely ONO. You can get laulau at restaurants throughout Oahu. One of my favorite places to get laulau is on at the Prince Kuhio Grill on the Big Island.
Fresh Sushi
Hawaii has some of the best fresh sushi, whether you just get a couple of packets from Foodland (aka Sack n’ Save at some locations), or you go to a fish market and have them prepare it for you. One of the best fresh fish markets is Suisan on the Big Island.
Li Hing Mui Watermelons
This is a fun snack for the beach. Sour watermelon candies are mixed with li hing mui—a sweet, mouth-watering Chinese powder—to satisfy any sweet tooth. You can find this at any grocery store or gas station, such as 7-11.
Spam Musubi
Ever heard of Spam sushi? I don’t know a local who doesn’t like spam, and spam sushi certainly satisfies all the cravings. Spam and rice, topped with furikake, and wrapped in seaweed is a great on-the-go snack or lunch. You can find spam musubis at pretty much any grocery store or gas station. You gotta try this local food favorite!
Manapua + Rice Cake
Manapua is a pork filled, steamed bun. The bun is so soft and pleasant, while the pork filling gives it a rich flavor. The traditional manapua has char-siu marinated pork (char-siu is a sweet Chinese flavor), but nowadays they sell all kinds of different flavors. Manapua tastes delicious with a side of rice cake, a traditional Chinese dessert. Oahu has one of the best manapua shops, Chun Wah Kam. Grocery stores and gas stations (like 7-11) also have manapua.
A Bento
These little boxes stem from Japan, in which you basically have a meal on the go. Typical bento boxes include rice and any kind of side, from spam, teriyaki beef, and chicken to fish, sushi, and even fried egg. You can find bento boxes at grocery stores, gas stations, and there are even restaurants dedicated to serving only bentos! My favorite bento box is from Zippys, called the “Zip Pack.” Zippys is on most of the islands.
Fresh Mochi
If you’re a fan of mochi ice cream, you MUST try fresh mochi. Mochi is a sweet rice dessert that originated in Japan. It comes in all shapes and sizes, but my favorite is the strawberry-filled mochi. Sometimes they can be filled with peanut butter, azuki bean (a sweet bean), or pretty much anything you can think of. You should definitely give it a try! My favorite mochi is from the Two Ladies mochi in Hilo on the Big Island. You can also find mochi at local grocery stores. 🙂
So there you have it! I can’t wait for your adventures in Hawaii, and I hope you’ll jot notes so you can try some of these local favorites. What is one Hawaii food you want to try? Or, if you’ve already been, what are your favorite local foods?
Have a wonderful trip!
With joy + aloha,
Leialoha
Can’t make it to Hawaii? Change your mindset and get there faster!
Did you know that changing your mindset can help you get to Hawaii? Create paradise wherever you are with my FREE Ebook, “Bringing Aloha Home.” With these simple principles, you can change your mindset, which will change your life and bring more peace and less stress. Get your FREE instant-download ebook by signing up below!
E komo mai! 🌺 I am the author of Aloha State of Mind, a self help book that teaches you how to create paradise wherever you are. My blog, Naturally Aloha, focuses on all things Hawaii: culture, values, food, lifestyle, and more. I hope my writing inspires you to carry aloha with you everywhere! Learn more…
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