Everything You Need to Know The largest and most dramatic of the windward valleys along Kohala Mountain, the Waipio Valley has long held importance to those who call the Big Island home. Located along the island’s northern shore, Waipio Valley means “the land of curving water”, named after the streams that run through the area. A fertile and productive region, the valley is a paradise of lush tropical vegetation and taro fields. It is often referred to as the Valley of Kings due to its importance to Hawaiian culture and tradition. Surrounded on three sides by nearly 2,500-foot cliffs, the valley boasts the steepest road by length in the United States – an 800-foot rise in just 0.6 miles. If you choose to venture down the road into the valley, you’ll need a sturdy pair of hiking boots or a tough four wheel drive vehicle to get in and out on this incredibly steep road. Waipio Valley Lookout You’ll also want to spend some time checking out the view and historical background information available at the lookout. Massive, smooth cliff faces show where part of the island broke off and fell into the ocean and the rolling waves from the strong incoming winds provide an excellent photo opportunity. Once you reach the valley floor there’s no shortage of excellent sightseeing. The valley contains several ancient burial sites, fishing areas, and heiaus in varying conditions, and visitors get a good idea of the size and scale of the ancient fishing and farming community as well as some insight into their unique way of life.
What You Need to Know about the Waipio Valley
