The Pololu Trail Steward program is a recent initiative in which one or more local stewards are present at the Pololu Valley trailhead to inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. Mahalo! Keep in mind though that the land further back is privately owned and that there are sacred burial sites deeper in the valley. Hi'ilawe Falls Hi'ilawe Falls That seems right to me. As you drive north on Highway 270 where the black lava landscapes of the Kohala Coast give way to the flourishing, green pastures of North Kohala, you'll be rewarded at the end of your journey with an unforgettable view from the Polol Valley Overlook. Once down at the bottom, it's a nice walk parallel to the beach at Pololu (we haven't hiked down Waipio, but I think it's the same there however, there's a creek at the bottom of Waipio that could be difficult to cross if the water is high.). Waipio valley was home to old Hawaiian kings and once upon a time was densely populated. The views are incredible. Wai'pio Valley vs. Pololu Valley - Island of Hawaii Message Board Wai'pio Valley vs. Pololu Valley - Island of Hawaii Forum Its steep but not overly strenuous and you will be rewarded with lovely vistas. The valley meets the ocean towards the north with a beautiful black sand beach that is cut in two by the river. Great trail! Makes for a really good mindfulness practice. Woman in parking lot "recommended" not to hike, due to weather. I've been reading this forum for months and it has been extremely helpful. Some bitched and moaned about not being able to use the elevator, not being able to get right back to the rooms (they checked every one of them for issues like things fallen off walls, TVs fallen down, cracks), stuff like that. Just be sure not to poach any of the loungers that are there for hotel guests, When I visit the Big Island, I always have to make the drive all the way up to the Pololu Lookout.