Waipio
,Waipio is a small rural community located on the Big Island of Hawaii, United States. It is known for its stunning Waipio Valley, a lush, verdant area with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. The town itself is a quiet and peaceful place, surrounded by beautiful scenery and the sounds of nature.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the rich history and culture of the area.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Waipio Wonders
morning
:Start your day with a sunrise hike at Waipio Valley Lookout. The stunning views of the valley are best enjoyed in the early hours.
afternoon
:Explore the valley floor by taking a guided horseback tour. This is a perfect way to appreciate the lush scenery and waterfalls up close.
evening
:Wind down the day at a local beach with a picnic dinner. Listen to the waves as you enjoy the sunset.
Scenic Serenity
morning
:Take a leisurely stroll along the Waipio coastline. The fresh ocean breeze is invigorating and the sights are awe-inspiring.
afternoon
:Visit a nearby taro farm to learn about the traditional Hawaiian agricultural practices. Taste some fresh taro dishes that are unique to the region.
evening
:Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau at a local venue. Join in the festivities with music, hula, and great food.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty including lush valleys and waterfalls.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, particularly in Hawaiian traditions.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and beach outings.
- Relatively less crowded compared to other tourist locations in Hawaii.
- Wildlife and marine biodiversity, offering opportunities for eco-tourism.
Bad
- Limited access to amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Potentially high cost of living due to its remote location.
- Accessibility can be challenging, with winding roads and limited public transport.
- Weather can be unpredictable with heavy rain in certain seasons.
- Limited job opportunities and economic options for residents.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Waipio Valley Lookout
Visit the stunning Waipio Valley Lookout for breathtaking views of the valley and the coastline. It's a great spot for photography and experiencing the natural beauty of the area.
Waipio Valley Horseback Riding
Explore the lush landscapes of Waipio Valley on horseback. Guided tours offer a unique way to see the valley’s waterfalls, taro fields, and cliffs.
Hiking the Waipio Valley Trail
Hike down the steep trail into Waipio Valley for a close-up experience of its lush environment. The hike can be challenging, but it's rewarding with views of waterfalls and scenery.
Kayaking along the Coast
Take a kayaking tour along the coast of Waipio Valley to enjoy the ocean and views of the cliffs from a different perspective. It's a fun and active way to explore the waters.
Beach Day at Waipio Valley Beach
Spend a day relaxing or picnicking at Waipio Valley Beach. The beach is less crowded and provides a serene spot to enjoy the sun and surf.
Cultural Tours
Participate in cultural tours offered in the Waipio Valley to learn about its history, legends, and the significance of the area to Native Hawaiians.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Waipio with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Waipio Valley Lookout
This lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of Waipio Valley, with lush green cliffs and the coastline in the background, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Waipio Valley Beach
Located at the bottom of the valley, this black sand beach provides a unique landscape for photos, with striking contrasts between the water, sand, and surrounding cliffs.
Scenic Drive - Hamakua Coast
The drive along the Hamakua Coast to Waipio Valley features numerous scenic points with opportunities to capture the stunning waterfalls and coastal views.
Muliwai Trail
This hiking trail leads through the lush rainforest and down to the valley floor, offering stunning views and the chance to capture nature’s beauty along the way.
Waipio Valley Waterfalls
Photograph some of the amazing waterfalls that cascade down the cliffs of Waipio Valley, best viewed by taking a guided tour or from a distance on the hiking trails.
Chinaman's Hat
Though a bit away from Waipio, this iconic landmark can be viewed from various spots in Waipio, providing a fantastic backdrop for photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Poke
A traditional Hawaiian dish of diced raw fish (often tuna) mixed with seasonings like soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed, creating a flavorful and refreshing seafood delicacy. Must-try at Da Poke Shack or KTA Super Stores.
Must-Try!
Kalua Pork
Slow-cooked, tender shredded pork infused with smoky flavors from an underground oven, known as an imu. Best enjoyed at Waipio Cook House or Waipio Valley Lookout.
Laulau
A traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of pork, chicken, or fish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection. Local favorites include Waipio Cook House or Tex Drive In.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Waipio better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Hilo Farmers Market
A bustling market offering an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods, including delectable local snacks like coconut-mochi and malasadas.
Local Food Trucks
Explore various food trucks scattered across Waipio, serving up mouthwatering favorites like garlic shrimp plates, loco moco, and refreshing shave ice. Check out the Waipio Valley Lookout for a diverse selection of food trucks.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Aloha Spirit
Embrace the Aloha Spirit, which emphasizes love, peace, and compassion. Greet others with 'Aloha' and engage in kind, respectful interactions as a reflection of caring for one another in the community.
Respect for Nature
Show respect for the natural surroundings. In Waipio, it's important to treat the land and ocean with reverence. Avoid littering, stay on marked trails, and be conscious of wildlife and natural resources.
Cultural Sensitivity
Be aware of and respectful towards the cultural customs and traditions of the Native Hawaiian community. Attend local events and ceremonies with openness and a willingness to learn about the rich history and customs of the area.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Waipio with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Waipio, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It usually ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill in restaurants, depending on the quality of service. Tipping is also customary for delivery services, bartenders, and hotel staff. However, some restaurants might include a gratuity in large parties or upscale dining establishments.
Payment
Payment methods in Waipio typically include cash, credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Many businesses accept payments via card for ease and convenience, and there is an increasing trend towards contactless transactions. Local businesses might still accept cash, but the preference for electronic payments has grown due to efficiency.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Waipio.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Waipio, with mild temperatures and low humidity. Expect blooming flora and fewer crowds, making it ideal for hiking and enjoying the scenic views.
Summer
Summer (June to August) offers warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. However, it can be more crowded with tourists, so consider booking accommodations in advance.
Fall
Fall (September to November) is a pleasant time to visit, with warm temperatures and fewer tourists compared to summer. Expect beautiful foliage and a chance to experience local festivals.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can bring cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, especially in January and February. However, this season is still suitable for mild weather activities and fewer crowds, offering a more peaceful experience.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Waipio Valley Trail
A scenic hike that descends into the Waipio Valley, offering stunning views of waterfalls and lush landscapes.
Hiilawe Falls Trail
A challenging hike that leads to one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii, providing breathtaking views and a chance to splash in the pool below.
Kohala Ditch Trail
This trail follows the old irrigation ditch through lush forests and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Makahi Trail
A steep and adventurous hike that rewards hikers with stunning overlooks of the coastline and the historic sugar cane fields.
Pololu Valley Trail
A short but steep hike that leads to a black sand beach with dramatic cliffs and offers a peaceful retreat.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Waipio through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Waipio by plane.
Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
The main international airport serving the city of Honolulu and the state of Hawaii, located approximately 20 miles from Waipio.
Kona International Airport (KOA)
An international airport located on the Big Island of Hawaii, approximately 200 miles from Waipio.
Maui's Kahului Airport (OGG)
The primary airport on the island of Maui, located around 100 miles from Waipio.
Hilo International Airport (ILI)
An international airport on the Big Island of Hawaii, located approximately 200 miles from Waipio.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Asian
A significant demographic making up a large portion of the population in Waipio.
Hispanic or Latino
This group includes individuals with origins from Latin America and Spain.
White
Caucasian residents who form a considerable demographic presence.
Black or African American
Residents who identify as Black or African American, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Two or more races
Individuals identifying with more than one racial group.
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
This group includes Native Hawaiians and individuals from other Pacific Island nations.
American Indian and Alaska Native
A smaller demographic within Waipio, representing indigenous peoples.
The Soul of Waipio
Discover the essence of Waipio through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball
A popular team sport enjoyed by many residents, with local leagues and community events.
Soccer
A widely played sport among youth and adults, with various clubs and tournaments.
Basketball
A favorite recreational activity and competitive sport, often played in schools and parks.
Football
An important sport in the community, with local high school teams drawing significant support.
Volleyball
A popular sport in parks and schools, often played both recreationally and competitively.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan
While traditional Hawaiian cuisine heavily features meat and fish, many establishments in Waipio offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as tofu poke bowls, grilled vegetable laulau, and fresh fruit shave ice.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can still indulge in Waipio's culinary delights with gluten-free alternatives like poi (taro paste), fresh seafood, and fruit smoothies. Many restaurants also accommodate gluten-free dietary needs upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Waipio with these cultural adventures.
