Ocean
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Float above lit ocean water after dark as Kona's resident manta rays somersault inches beneath you, the Big Island's single most unforgettable hour.
Land
Waipi'o Valley Lookout
The Valley of the Kings drops a thousand feet to a black-sand shore and taro fields laced with waterfalls. The overlook is one of Hawaii's great views.
Waipi’o, the Valley of the Kings, opens below the overlook in one of Hawaii’s great views: green walls dropping a thousand feet to a black-sand shore, taro terraces on the valley floor, and waterfalls threading the far cliffs. It is about an hour north through the old plantation town of Honoka’a.
The overlook itself is a short, easy stop. Going down onto the valley floor is restricted now, so the way to explore it is with a licensed guide, which our concierge can arrange along with the scenic drive up the Hamakua Coast.
Good to know
Can we drive down into the valley?
The valley floor road is currently restricted to residents, so the floor is explored only with a licensed guide. The overlook is open to everyone and is a short, easy stop. Our concierge arranges a guided tour if you want to go deeper.
When is the best time to go for the view?
Mornings are usually clearest, before clouds build against the cliffs and haze softens the light. It is a year-round view, but an early start also means cooler air and easier parking at the small overlook lot.
How long does it take from Hali'i Kai?
Plan on about an hour each way, driving north through the old plantation town of Honoka'a. The overlook stop itself takes only a few minutes, so most guests fold it into a wider Hamakua Coast or Waimea day.
Is the overlook suitable for kids and grandparents?
Yes, the overlook is a short, mostly level walk from the parking area and works for all ages. Keep little ones close, as the cliff edges are unfenced and the drop is dramatic.
What should we bring?
Water, sun protection, and a light layer are plenty for the overlook, since the uplands can be breezy. Bring good shoes and expect a real adventure if you continue onto the valley floor with a guide.
More ways to spend the day
Culture
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge)
A sacred place of forgiveness on a lava point of carved ki'i, royal fishponds, and swaying palms. One of Hawaii's most powerful cultural sites, and its best preserved.
Ocean
Kealakekua Bay Kayak & Snorkel
Paddle a glassy marine sanctuary to the Captain Cook Monument, where spinner dolphins pass and the reef drops into some of Hawaii's clearest water.