Waipi'o Valley Tours

Waipi'o Valley tours are the best way to experience one of the most magnificent and scenic valleys in all Hawaii. Second only to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as the most visited site on the Big Island, Waipi'o Valley has a rich history that links legends of the past to today's valley inhabitants. Your guide can provide an insider's knowledge into the history and cultural significance of the valley.

Waipi'o Valley is approximately 90 minutes from Kona, about an hour from Hilo, and just 20 minutes from the town of Honoka'a at the west end of Highway 240. Because of the incredibly steep descent from the Waipi'o overlook, accessing the valley on your own can be challenging. While many people (ourselves included) enjoy the moderate hike down from the top, there are other fun and easy ways to access this Valley of the Kings.

Waipi'o Valley Sightseeing Tour

To best experience the Valley of the Kings, we offer small group Waipi'o Valley Tours from most parts of the Big Island. After picking you up at your accommodation, enjoy a scenic drive in the comfort of a luxury SUV to the Waipi'o Valley overlook, where you will stop for photos. Your guide will provide insight into the history and mystery of this magical valley, as well as its spiritual and cultural significance. Enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and valley, lush tropical foliage that drapes the landscape, and taro growing in abundance on the valley floor.

For those opting to continue beyond the overlook, hiking into Waipi'o Valley is the best way to get fully immersed in its beauty and grandeur. The path is extremely steep and all hikers should be in reasonably good physical condition. When you reach the bottom, spend time wandering along beautiful Waipi'o Beach, then continue on foot to explore further up the valley. You may see wild horses roaming the valley, and watch in awe as the highest waterfall on Hawaii Island drops out of the sky. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes, not flip-flops. Your guide will provide snacks and water. For those who prefer not to hike, your tour guide will drive you to the valley floor.

Other Recommended Waipi'o Valley Tours

Hawaii Horseback Riding Tours

A Hawaii horseback ride is the stuff dreams are made of. Of all the Hawaiian Islands, the Big Island has some of the best. Waipi'o Valley tours on horseback are a great way to enjoy this magnificent valley. Your ride begins at Waipi'o Valley Artworks in Kukuihaele, less than a mile east of the Waipi'o overlook off Highway 240.

Two options are available. To ride in the valley itself, riders are transported by 4WD van to the corral on the valley floor where the ride begins. This beautiful Waipi'o Valley horseback ride takes riders deep into the valley, through thick jungle with stream crossings and incredible views.

As an alternative, you can choose a ride along the rim that meanders above the valley with beautiful scenic vistas from various overlooks.

Long pants and boots are recommended for all rides.

Waipi'o Valley Wagon Tours

Waipi'o Valley Wagon Tours begin in the town of Kukuihaele. Enjoy this delightful open-air experience of a mule-drawn wagon ride into and across the beautiful valley, stopping to view the back of the valley and the Hi'ilawa waterfall. Perfect for families or couples! Meeting point is Neptune Gardens/Last Chance Store in Kukuihaele.

Big Island ATV Tour

Not quite ready for the saddle? An ATV tour is a fun way for the entire family to explore the tropical scenery and waterfalls above Waipi'o Valley. Drive your own or ride with a guide as you journey through lush forest with scenic views into the valley.