Wow. This view was breathtaking! I visited in April and we definitely got lucky. I hear that all the tour busses come by and parking is often difficult to find. There is a slight hike so if you aren't physically able, this might be inaccessible for you. Tourists used to be able to access the property below the valley but that has changed since the pandemic (unfortunately). Still, nonetheless it doesn't cost a penny and it's a stunning view. read more

This was such an epic view. The lookout is a short but steep walk from the parking lot and had bathroom facilities. This is definitely worth a stop if on the big island. The day we went, was right after rain and there was a waterfall falling onto a black sand beach. Where else in the world can you see that? read more

Not sure how to review this. It's a lookout area. Plenty of parking. Area is well kept. It has amazing views of Waipio Valley. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

This sacred and historic valley lookout is always worth a stop. If the weather is good, the views will be spectacular. Only went to the look out and didn't go down as of respect for the locals. There is a shelter with restrooms and a grill. Saw people having a picnic. Parking is on the street with paved path to the look out. read more

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Waipi'o Valley is what I imagine when I think of Hawaii. Such idyllic views of a beautiful island landscape, it's really breathtaking. For nonresidents, only the lookout itself is accessible. So it is a little out of the way for such a limited experience. Still,the views really are worth adding to an itinerary, especially if you're already planning to explore the north part of the island. FYI, you may have to park a little further down the road, as the lookout itself has limited space for vehicles. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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No cell signal on the way here so just followed our gut and the signs. I think it is some sacred ground or something, owned by private party. Because only locals can go down to the beach and valley area. It ha a nice view for sure but it's a 5 minute stop by, not a long visit type of thing. read more

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This drive is totally worth it as you can see views of the steep cliffs. You can only reach as far as the parking lot area as after that is for residents only. Rental cars are not allowed past the guarded area as the road is narrow and steep. The views are amazing and there are restrooms here. read more

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You have to bring your family here , at least if your visiting. Most beautiful scenery . Next time I'm bringing my lunch here and eating on the picnic tables. It's a steep walk with rails. Bring your tennis shoes. But worth the short steep walk. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Beautiful scenery. Come see for yourself. - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

This is one of the most beautiful places on the entire planet. Honestly. You can just stare at the view for a long time and book a tour that will take you to the bottom. Do that too because it is amazing. The parking lot can be very busy and there is limited parking. A must see stop on the big island. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

A nice drive to a scenic lookout. 30 Minute parking around and not much issues getting it on a Thursday. Reception sucks in the area so might be nice to download a map to not get lost. Great picture moments and worth checking out for a bit. Cats roam the area meowwwwww. read more

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This lookout offers a stunning view, with convenient parking and a short walk down from the lot to reach it. Only residents are allowed to drive down the main road to the valley. The informational signs helped us learn about the area's history and gain a greater appreciation for it. Plus, there are a few benches which makes it perfect for a picnic! We made it a quick stop due to rain, but it was still worth it. read more

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Waipi'o Valley Lookout is a worthwhile cool roadside stop to appreciate a pleasant coastal view along the shores of The Big Island of Hawaii. Waipi'o is located about 50 miles north of the major town of Hilo, HI. Although I took an unconventional route to arrive here...I'd like to suggest a nice little efficient pathway itinerary to enjoy while venturing out here to this vista point in Kukuihaele, HI. If you're staying in Hilo.... 1. Stop at Rainbow Falls - 2 miles away 2. Stop at the Boiling Pots - 2 miles from Rainbow Falls 3. Stop at Akaka Falls - 18 miles north of the Boiling Pots. 4. Stop at Honomu Goat Dairy - 3 miles from wondrous Akaka Falls. 5. Then come here to Waipi'o Valley lookout - 39 miles from Honomu Farm. 6. Finally, Pololu Valley Lookout - 51 miles north from here at Waipi'o. My journey through these parts was all twisted, but I believe visiting all these attractions are memorable moments for anyone's first time journey around The Big Island. And...this drive will cover most of the northeast section of The Big Island. Overall, I was quite satisfied with everything I explored. But here at Waipi'o Valley Lookout, for just when I visited on Saturday, March 12, 2022...the only accessible part to the lookout, is just simply the lookout. I had heard that you could drive the road down to the beach shore, but that is no longer the case. When I arrived there was a guard attendant standing in front of barriers saying at this endpoint, it's as far as you can go... So...the ultimate finale is walking down a short flight of steps and to the overlook point. That's it. Because of the overlook being the end all, be all, to hanging out here...all I needed was a casual 15 minutes to admire the lush, green mountainous landscape hovering beside the crashing waves of the waters below. I wasn't totally in awe and hypnotized by the setting or scenery. I mean, I liked it...but it wasn't magical like I was anticipating it to be. Waipi'o Valley Lookout is definitely worthy of a few pictures, and especially when the sun is shining it makes for much better/photogenic surroundings. If interested, I did notice a canopy area with some barbecue pits and tables if you'd like to hang out and have some lunch. It's certainly a fun spot for a picnic. And also, the gentleman guarding the closed off road area was very helpful in assisting me with some ideas for continuing my explorations around The Big Island. Overall, yeah, you do only need 15 minutes to view the scenery from Waipi'o Valley Lookout. And it is sort of similar in appearance to Polulu Valley Lookout, in my opinion. But...at Polulu Valley, you can hike down to the shoreline. Finally, I did see a sign stating that the small park area where this Waipi'o Lookout is situated is open daily at 7am. If you're an early riser and want to appreciate a quaint overlook spot to get your day started, then you'd be satisfied coming here first thing in the morning. And right nearby in the town of Kukuihaele, it has a charming district to walk the streets and maybe pick up a cup of coffee and pastry for breakfast as well. Alright this is Waipi'o Valley Lookout on The Big Island of Hawaii! read more

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Absolutely gorgeous view and worth the drive! Make sure to stop by the fruit stand on your way in or out. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

Beautiful view. Excellent tour of valley. Guide was born and raised in the valley so he was very knowledgeable about the history and culture there. read more

Incredible views from the waipio valley lookout. Valley itself is very beautiful. Approx 10 miles route from the highway is very scenic with a historic town in middle too. Ocean and mountains collide with a great artistic view at the end. Would definitely recommend this place for the great picture opportunities. Pictures speak by itself. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

Is so beautiful, what a view. It was raining when we got there but it's so worth seeing this view and hearing the bird chirping. read more

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This is a gorgeous lookout. This was my second trip stopping here. The first time was a lot less crowded. This time I was kind of turned off by the crowds. The first time we actually took the tour down into the valley which was pretty cool. This time we just stopped to enjoy the lookout. I think it would be cool to hike down yourself to see the beach and valley by foot. Maybe next time. This time we didn't feel like spending a lot of time here and that hill to get down is crazy steep. The lookout is gorgeous, so if all you do is stop here to look at the view, it's still worth it. read more

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Lookout below!!! Literally ... it's an overlook of the historic and breathtakingly-beautiful Waipi'o Valley ... as well as the trailhead for the 3-mile round-trip steep hike to the beach and back. This really is a beautiful spot ... like so many others on Hawaii. We actually found "better" locations along the Hamakua Coast and other parts of the Big Island without the parking hassle or crowds; however, I still appreciate the significance and sheer majesty of the scenery. If you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, guts to try, and don't mind breaking your rental car agreement ... then take the rough, narrow road down to the beach at an average grade of 25%. This won't be for most vehicles or drivers. The better option for those physically fit, is the hike down (and, of course, up) the precipitous road to the dramatic black sand beach. Waipi'o Valley is sacred in Hawaii as the "Valley of the Kings" and the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I. It remained heavily populated until 1946 when a large tsunami wiped out almost all the structures and only a few people returned. Please be respectful of that tragic past as well as the cultural significance when visiting. Also, my experience was that you will NOT see most of the lush tropical valley from the lookout because the valley is almost one mile across and over five-miles deep while being protected by cliffs up to 2000-feet high. Hidden in the back of Waipi'o, is the tallest waterfall on the island: Hiilawe Falls which cascades 1,300 feet down Kohala mountain. Finally, note that Waipi'o Valley Lookout seems to be always-popular and often-busy. It took several minutes to get one of the limited parking spots along the road. Patience is a virtue and required if you want to visit the overlook or complete the hike. Aloha! read more

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Haven't been back, so sad cannot go down to valley any more. Only one word "breath taking", too bad the trees are so tall, blocking the view into the valley. read more

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Beautiful. Simply beautiful. Standing at the lookout as the sun covered the steep mountain cliffs in a blanket of golden rays deep into the "valley of the kings," I couldn't help but think, "damn, how lucky am I to call Hawaii my home?" With everything that's currently happening in Hawai'i right now, I've never felt more proud to call this place home. For a moment in time, all the emotions just rushed in and overcame me as I grew nostalgic for the Hawai'i of my childhood. I then began imagining all the history and power that's held within these towering walls. Many Hawai'i Island ali'i (chief) were raised here, one being Kamehameha the Great who united the Hawaiian islands. Kamehameha would bring his warriors to Waipio after big battles to rest and rejuvenate, because the valley heals and restores. Simply put, the historical and cultural significance of the valley below is immeasurable. Notable heiaus and the first royal mausoleum once stood here. This was the site of one of two 'places of refuge' with the other being Puuhonua o Hōnaunau (review to come). Life is abundant here and has largely remained unchanged, thankfully partly due to access to the valley being challenging which limits the amount of daily visitors. If you want to venture below into Waipio, you'll need to either book a tour, have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, or walk. If not, enjoy the view from this lookout. There are no hotels or places to stay unless you have an invitation from one of the few residents that still inhabit the valley. One day, I'd love to take the drive down. For now, I enjoyed the feeling of contentment I had that day which would've been made more perfect had the rain clouds not descended, blocking the view of Maui, my island home. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Valley down below - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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Beautiful lookout!! Worth the drive to the northern part of the Big Island . Tip: bring your plate lunch. There's an eating area with picnic tables, restrooms, and shade. Too bad you can't go down to the village with a 4X4 anymore. You have to be a resident to enter. read more

Great views, but a bit of a drive out there. If you can make it for sunrise, I've heard this is one of the best spots to see it. There is about 30 min parking in the area. There is a restroom that is a bit small, but they have a whole wall of TP so don't worry about that being an issue. The valley is still closed to give the area a break for tourists, which is an understandable bummer. Great for some cool pictures, but again, a bit of a drive. You will pass by the Waipi'o fruit shack on your way there though, which I HIGHLY recommend (see my review for them). read more

A very nice lookout point in Hawaii. It's in the Northern end of the Big Island, so be aware of that. There really isn't much to say. There is a lookout of the beach and waterfall, and if you're willing you can make your way to the beach. We came only for the lookout and overall it was very nice, but there wasn't too much to do. Still, I enjoyed it overall and do not regret checking it out. It's a beautiful island and this is living proof of it. read more

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Great scenery. Nice place to drive out to and take a short little stroll for a better look. read more

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After driving around the entire island this was our last stop. It had been raining all day but we were determined to experience this. Im almost glad it was getting dark because if I was able to see the road before we started I might have chickened out. On our way down we picked up some backpackers that were trying to grab a ride down due to the ascending darkness. One said he was taking care of the orchard that was down there? We had great conversation with the duo on the way down. but yes, it was a bit nerve racking driving down and then back up due to the sheer steepness of the road. By the time we got to the bottom it was pitch black so we were unable to see anything. It did look like a good deal of people were camping on the bottom though. Next time we come this will be one of FIRST stops. I also plan on hiking it up and down because I love a challenge ;) read more

Nice amenities onsite and never too busy. I like the information presented on the wooden signs to teach about the value of the land

Gorgeous view! If you're on the Kona side, it's about a 1.5 hour drive so we attached this stop with Akaka Falls & Rainbow Falls. There is limited parking spots & some have parked on the side near the neighborhood. It's about a 2-5 minute walk down from the parking lot to the lookout. And the view is amazing! So blue & green. On the left of the lookout is a downhill to go straight to the beach but it is accessible with a 4 wheel drive or by foot. I did not want to do the hike because it is STEEP. And you are going downhill to the beach. But you're going to have go back uphill to the parking lot so definitely a thigh burner lol. We thought the lookout from the top was sufficient enough for us. If you have binoculars, it'd be cool to look down at the beach or to see the green mountains. Also, there are bathrooms right next to the lookout. Definitely would come especially as a first timer! read more

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So pretty. If you are in the area, definitely worth a stop. Easy walk down to the lookout (but steep) but the views! Amazing! read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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What an amazing view! We visited Hawaii for our summer vacation in 2018 - the Big Island, Oahu and Kauai. On our last full day on the Big Island we had a full day: - Overnight drive from Kona to Hilo, on the Saddle Road, ~ 1-3am - Moku Nui Lava Boat ride, 4-7am - Highway 19 drive from Hilo back to Kona, scenic pace morning through mid-afternoon - Akaka Falls, mid-morning - Lunch at Simply Natural, Honoka'a - Wai'ipo Overlook, early afternoon - Keck Observatory Visitor's Center - Nap back at the hotel - Date night at the Courtyard, thanks to Rick at the front desk We drove the additional six miles from Honoka'a to the Waipi'o Valley Overlook. One legend apparently has it that a warrior struck the ground with his club, making this valley. It is about a mile wide, very deep, and beautiful... and there are waterfalls flowing out of the side of that cliff right there in the center, pouring into the ocean - beautiful! The road to the overlook passes several houses and then ends at the Overlook, specificaly at the Overlook's parking lot. You may or may not need to wait a few minutes to get a parking space... it's worth the wait! The view from the Overlook is so beautiful... a waterfall spits out the side of the mountain, about 1/4 of the way down. We captured another family photo! The colors... the green hills, the deep blue water, the light blue sky... amazing. So nice to have fun with your camera, capturing not just color photos but also black and white (b&w) photos. One of the photos we captured is on th very short list of being turned into a wall hanging in our home... it's just that beautiful! As we drove to the Waipi'o Valley Overlook we saw chickens walking in the road AND we saw a mom and dad turkey AND a baby turkey! None of us had ever seen a baby turkey before, and now we have seen one... on the Big Island of Hawaii... amaziiiiing. read more

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If you're on the Big Island, this spot is a must-visit! Waipio Valley Lookout gives you an unbeatable view of the coast and island. Whether you go hiking or visit the rest area, there is something to do for everyone! The scenery is what computer desktop backgrounds are made from. Take as many pictures as you can because it is a bit crowded here, but don't forget to take in the view with your own eyes as well! It's a bit of a drive depending on where you stay on the Big Island, but I highly recommend this view as it was the best one we visited on our 4 day stay in Hawaii. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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Beautiful! Wonderful Cliff and Ocean Scenery! Nice lookout point with bathrooms and great views! Wonderful place at the end of the road where civilization ends and beautiful nature begins. If you have a 4x4 or Jeep, take the trail at the end of the road down the mountain to the beach! It's a great place with amazing scenery! A must visit place on the NE side of Big Island! read more

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It's pretty and there's a story you can read about on the plaques are the up sides. Also there's public amenities. The down side is the crowd and the parking. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

Gorgeous and peaceful lookout with small parking lot but plenty of street parking. Picnic tables and restrooms by the entrance - no fees. Steep walk but welcoming views! Highly recommended! read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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My husband and I decided to drive to several lookouts for a day. One of our stops was Waipio Valley Lookout. This lookout is way out there, but it was worth the view. We decided not to go on the hike or drive our vehicle down the road, and just wanted to take a lunch break and enjoy the views. We parked on the street and walked a few feet to where the lookout is. There is a single bathroom for men and women. Could be a long wait if you really need to use the restroom, but def use it if you need to since you're far away from another pitstop. When you get to the lookout there is a platform with gorgeous views of the mountains and ocean. There is also picnic tables where you can hangout and have a lunch. There is some signage to tell the story of the Valley. We spent a nice 30 mins here taking photos and having a picnic lunch. Wasn't crowded when we came, but there were a lot of cars. I presumed people went for the hike. Bring shoes and don't wear slippers! read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Waipio Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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This is a beautiful look out but there are so many politics going ion right now it is impossible to go down into the Valley!! There is plenty of historical information and friendly protesters who will share the history of the valley! read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

A must see. If you have 4x4, you can take the road down to the beach..it hike it! It's a mile down and a mile back. I hiked it with my parents (62y.oand 70y.o) and they were able to do it! It took us an hour down and an hour and a half back up with frequent stops. The view and the beach are absolutely breathtaking. I wish we could've stayed here longer and swam. Not many people on the beach. Tip: bring a raincoat. It rained off and on the entire hike down and back. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

Amazing Views, a must if you are driving around the Island. Beautiful Scenery to take pictures. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

Absolutely the most beautiful place I've ever seen. The Hawaiians consider this place to be sacred and it should be. Its about a 9 mile drive from the 240/19 turn off through the town of Honokaa. After you look at the view and take pictures, there is a small street that is across from the look out path. It has a cute little shop, ice cream and lovely wood carvings. You can tour the taro plantations in the valley and if you decided to do that tour, that's where they pick you up. When you're done wander around the cute little town and then go back to the highway where you can turn left to go to Hilo or right to go back to Waimea. read more

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You need to visit. At the end of Hwy 240 is this gorgeous lookout. If you're lucky, you can snatch one of maybe 8 parking spots (with a 30-minute time limit), but if you're like the rest of us, there is 24-hour street parking. A two-minute walk will take you to the lookout, and boy is it breathtaking. From this lookout, you can see a bit inland, the black sand beach fronting the valley, and a waterfall going into the ocean. There are bathrooms here too, so that's a plus. If you're feeling active and adventurous (or have a 4WD + are super confident with your driving skills), there is a road that goes down to the valley. I'd rate the hike at a moderate level-- quite steep, but nothing beats a black sand beach with lush and sheer cliffs behind you. read more

Waipi’o Valley Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Honokaa, Hawaii

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So, first thing first, parking can be so horrible. Barely anywhere to park! Luckily we caught somebody leaving soon as we got there. And there is a steep hill to walk down to the observation point. But the view is OUT OF THIS WORLD! BRING BINOCULARS! Wonderful stop to make as a tourist. You can see the black beach and farms in the valley. It's definitely an eye catcher! Mother nature is such a beautiful mystery. read more

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