Waimea, one of Hawaii's oldest and most established communities, boasts rolling hillsides and breathtaking views of Mauna Kea. The town is renowned for its cultural offerings, including farm-to-table restaurants and top-notch private schools.
Kona is a vibrant area known for its unique crops, such as coffee, vanilla beans, and cacao. The fertile volcanic soils and warm, sunny days make Kona ideal for growing these specialties. Additionally, the Kona Salt Farm, a seven-acre oceanfront farm, harvests thousands of pounds of salt from the Pacific Ocean each year, adding to the region's agricultural charm.
Exploring the scenic landscapes from Waimea to Kona offers hiking opportunities that showcase the natural beauty of the Big Island. Here are some of the top hiking trails to consider.
Pololu Valley Lookout and Trail
52-5100 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau
The Pololu Valley Lookout and Trail offers a more effortless hiking experience for those seeking adventure and tranquility. The trail from the lookout down to the valley takes less than 30 minutes to walk, making it accessible for most hikers. Although the path is steep, it is manageable, rewarding those who embark on it with lovely vistas. The lookout point provides a panoramic view of the rugged coastline and lush valleys.
The trail is slippery when wet and features a mix of rocky terrain and packed clay. Hikers should also be mindful of the ancient cobblestones still embedded in sections of the trail, which add a touch of historical intrigue to the journey. The trail opens to a stunning black sand beach as you descend, offering a serene spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty.
The Pololu Valley Lookout and Trail offers a more effortless hiking experience for those seeking adventure and tranquility. The trail from the lookout down to the valley takes less than 30 minutes to walk, making it accessible for most hikers. Although the path is steep, it is manageable, rewarding those who embark on it with lovely vistas. The lookout point provides a panoramic view of the rugged coastline and lush valleys.
The trail is slippery when wet and features a mix of rocky terrain and packed clay. Hikers should also be mindful of the ancient cobblestones still embedded in sections of the trail, which add a touch of historical intrigue to the journey. The trail opens to a stunning black sand beach as you descend, offering a serene spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty.
Pu'u Wa'awa'a Cinder Cone State Park
71-1645 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Kailua-Kona
Near Waimea, Pu'u Wa'awa'a Cinder Cone State Park is a treasure trove for hiking enthusiasts. The park's highlight is the Pu'u Wa'awa'a trail, a 6.5-mile loop that takes hikers up a remarkable volcanic cinder cone. This trail, which takes about four hours to complete, offers dramatic forest and sea views that captivate every adventurer.
The hike is moderately challenging, making it an excellent option for those looking to push their limits while enjoying the island's natural beauty. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding area, including the majestic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. One of the unique features of this trail is an ancient mound, whimsically said to resemble a jello mold.
As you traverse this diverse landscape, the expansive views from the summit are the ultimate reward. The combination of lush forest, sweeping ocean views, and the towering presence of Hawaii's famous volcanoes make the Pu'u Wa'awa'a trail an unforgettable experience.
Near Waimea, Pu'u Wa'awa'a Cinder Cone State Park is a treasure trove for hiking enthusiasts. The park's highlight is the Pu'u Wa'awa'a trail, a 6.5-mile loop that takes hikers up a remarkable volcanic cinder cone. This trail, which takes about four hours to complete, offers dramatic forest and sea views that captivate every adventurer.
The hike is moderately challenging, making it an excellent option for those looking to push their limits while enjoying the island's natural beauty. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding area, including the majestic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. One of the unique features of this trail is an ancient mound, whimsically said to resemble a jello mold.
As you traverse this diverse landscape, the expansive views from the summit are the ultimate reward. The combination of lush forest, sweeping ocean views, and the towering presence of Hawaii's famous volcanoes make the Pu'u Wa'awa'a trail an unforgettable experience.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Kailua-Kona, HI
Closer to Kona, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is a remarkable destination combining natural beauty and rich cultural history. This park offers several trails where hikers can immerse themselves in the island's past while enjoying its stunning landscapes.
Native Hawaiians were among the first fish farmers in history. Approximately 800 years ago, they constructed large fishponds to raise fish for their communities. These ancient fishponds are maintained within the park, serving as enduring symbols of the past and a testament to the ingenuity of Hawaii's early inhabitants.
One of the notable trails running through the park is the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. The trail provides access to ancient Hawaiian sites, allowing hikers to connect with the island's cultural heritage. Along the way, you'll encounter historic fishponds, pristine beaches, and other significant landmarks. The trails are easy to navigate, making them accessible for hikers of all levels.
Closer to Kona, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is a remarkable destination combining natural beauty and rich cultural history. This park offers several trails where hikers can immerse themselves in the island's past while enjoying its stunning landscapes.
Native Hawaiians were among the first fish farmers in history. Approximately 800 years ago, they constructed large fishponds to raise fish for their communities. These ancient fishponds are maintained within the park, serving as enduring symbols of the past and a testament to the ingenuity of Hawaii's early inhabitants.
One of the notable trails running through the park is the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. The trail provides access to ancient Hawaiian sites, allowing hikers to connect with the island's cultural heritage. Along the way, you'll encounter historic fishponds, pristine beaches, and other significant landmarks. The trails are easy to navigate, making them accessible for hikers of all levels.
Mauna Kea Trails
Mauna Kea, HI
The Mauna Kea trails offer an exceptional experience for those seeking high-altitude trekking with spectacular views. The Mauna Kea Summit Trail is a challenging hike that requires acclimatization to the altitude. This 12-mile round-trip hike ascends 4,500 feet and takes about eight hours.
The trail features rough terrain with loose rocks, so it's recommended to use hiking poles for stability. Despite the difficulty, the effort is rewarded with unparalleled views from the highest point in Hawaii. At the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking vistas that stretch across the island and beyond.
The Mauna Kea Humu'ula Trail offers beautiful scenery without the intense climb for those looking for a less strenuous option. This trail allows hikers to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Mauna Kea at a more relaxed pace, making it accessible for a broader range of fitness levels.
The Mauna Kea trails offer an exceptional experience for those seeking high-altitude trekking with spectacular views. The Mauna Kea Summit Trail is a challenging hike that requires acclimatization to the altitude. This 12-mile round-trip hike ascends 4,500 feet and takes about eight hours.
The trail features rough terrain with loose rocks, so it's recommended to use hiking poles for stability. Despite the difficulty, the effort is rewarded with unparalleled views from the highest point in Hawaii. At the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking vistas that stretch across the island and beyond.
The Mauna Kea Humu'ula Trail offers beautiful scenery without the intense climb for those looking for a less strenuous option. This trail allows hikers to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Mauna Kea at a more relaxed pace, making it accessible for a broader range of fitness levels.
Honua'ula Forest Reserve
Holualoa, HI
Located between Waimea and Kona, the Honua'ula Forest Reserve is a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. In 1906, the forest reserve moved 665 acres out of pasture to protect the area from further deforestation. Today, it encompasses 5,126 acres of cloud forest, providing a sanctuary for numerous rare, endemic, and threatened species.
The reserve features several trails that guide hikers through diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to dryland areas. The Pu'u O'o Trail is a moderate hike offering scenic views of the Kohala Mountains and the coastline, making it a delightful trek for those seeking beautiful landscapes and adventure.
Another popular trail within the reserve is the Makaula-O'oma Trail. The 3.7-mile loop is a moderately challenging route that takes about two hours to complete. As you navigate the trail, you'll be treated to the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this protected area. The natural beauty and ecological diversity make this forest reserve a true gem on the Big Island.
Located between Waimea and Kona, the Honua'ula Forest Reserve is a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. In 1906, the forest reserve moved 665 acres out of pasture to protect the area from further deforestation. Today, it encompasses 5,126 acres of cloud forest, providing a sanctuary for numerous rare, endemic, and threatened species.
The reserve features several trails that guide hikers through diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to dryland areas. The Pu'u O'o Trail is a moderate hike offering scenic views of the Kohala Mountains and the coastline, making it a delightful trek for those seeking beautiful landscapes and adventure.
Another popular trail within the reserve is the Makaula-O'oma Trail. The 3.7-mile loop is a moderately challenging route that takes about two hours to complete. As you navigate the trail, you'll be treated to the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this protected area. The natural beauty and ecological diversity make this forest reserve a true gem on the Big Island.
Kiholo Bay
71-1890 Queen Ka'ahumanu Hwy, Kailua-Kona
Kiholo Bay, a site of historical significance and natural beauty, offers a captivating coastal hike. It began as an engineered fishpond in 1820, spanning approximately two miles, bordered by a six-foot high by 20-foot wide lava rock wall. Today, it remains a stunning destination for those seeking an adventure combining history with Hawaii's coast's serene beauty.
The hike from Kiholo State Park Reserve to Kiholo Bay is relatively easy, making it accessible for most hikers. This trail takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with views of turquoise waters, impressive lava rock formations, and vibrant marine life. Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful black sand beaches, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
One of the highlights of this hike is the opportunity to spot green sea turtles, which often bask on the shores or swim gracefully in the bay's clear waters. The trail also leads to a freshwater pool, perfect for a refreshing swim amidst the natural beauty.
Kiholo Bay, a site of historical significance and natural beauty, offers a captivating coastal hike. It began as an engineered fishpond in 1820, spanning approximately two miles, bordered by a six-foot high by 20-foot wide lava rock wall. Today, it remains a stunning destination for those seeking an adventure combining history with Hawaii's coast's serene beauty.
The hike from Kiholo State Park Reserve to Kiholo Bay is relatively easy, making it accessible for most hikers. This trail takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with views of turquoise waters, impressive lava rock formations, and vibrant marine life. Along the way, you'll encounter beautiful black sand beaches, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
One of the highlights of this hike is the opportunity to spot green sea turtles, which often bask on the shores or swim gracefully in the bay's clear waters. The trail also leads to a freshwater pool, perfect for a refreshing swim amidst the natural beauty.
The adventurous life in Waimea and Kona
Living in Waimea and Kona offers endless opportunities for adventure and natural beauty, making it a fun and enriching place to call home. Schenk Properties is your go-to real estate team when finding your dream home in this beautiful area. As a respected father and son team, they uphold a well-regarded track record in the real estate industry. Their deep knowledge of Kona and Waimea, HI real estate ensures you find the perfect home to match your lifestyle and needs. Schenk Properties is dedicated to helping you make the most of your island living experience.
