Kukuihaele HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kukuihaele, Hawaii.
1. Na'alapa Stables - Waipio Valley
HORSEBACK TOURS IN PARADISE
Na'alapa Stables offers guided horseback tours through the historic Waipio Valley, known as the Valley of the Kings. Visitors can experience the lush landscape, waterfalls, and black sand beaches from horseback with knowledgeable guides sharing Hawaiian culture and history. The stable provides a unique perspective of this sacred valley that cannot be accessed by regular vehicles.
2. Waipio Valley Lookout
BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS
Waipio Valley Lookout offers visitors a bird's-eye view of the verdant stretch of land nicknamed The Valley of the Kings. The lookout provides panoramic vistas of steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and the black sand beach where the valley meets the ocean. This easily accessible viewpoint is a must-visit spot to appreciate the striking beauty and historical importance of this sacred Hawaiian valley.
3. Waipo Valley Artworks
LOCAL ART AND CRAFTS
Waipo Valley Artworks showcases beautiful handcrafted items and artwork created by local Hawaiian artists. The gallery features a diverse collection including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and textiles that reflect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Big Island. Visitors can purchase unique souvenirs while supporting the local artistic community.
4. Waipio Valley Shuttle
ACCESS TO HIDDEN WONDERS
Waipio Valley Shuttle provides transportation into the steep and difficult-to-access Waipio Valley floor. The shuttle service offers narrated tours explaining the valley's significant cultural and historical importance in Hawaiian tradition. Visitors can experience this sacred place without needing a 4WD vehicle to navigate the extremely steep access road.
5. Waipio Beach
SACRED BLACK SAND SHORE
Waipio Beach is a stunning black sand beach at the mouth of the historic Waipio Valley. The beach features dramatic cliffs, powerful surf, and a river that flows into the ocean, creating a unique landscape. Visitors should exercise caution as the currents can be strong, but the beach offers unparalleled natural beauty and a sense of stepping back in time.
6. Hiilawe Waterfall
MAJESTIC NATURAL WONDER
Hiilawe Waterfall is one of Hawaii's tallest waterfalls, cascading approximately 1,450 feet down the back of Waipio Valley. The waterfall's impressive height and the lush surroundings make it a breathtaking sight for those exploring the valley. Viewing the falls typically requires a guided tour as it sits on private property within the sacred valley.
7. Hawaiian Vanilla Company
AROMATIC CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Hawaiian Vanilla Company is America's first vanilla farm offering tours of their plantation and educational experiences about vanilla cultivation. Visitors can enjoy vanilla-infused meals and beverages at their luncheon events while learning about this exotic spice's journey from vine to extract. The farm's gift shop offers a variety of vanilla products, including beans, extracts, and body care items.
8. Kalopa State Recreation Area
NATIVE FOREST HIKING
Kalopa State Recreation Area features a native 'ohi'a forest with several hiking trails that showcase Hawaii's unique flora and fauna. The park offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and cabins for overnight stays surrounded by nature. Visitors can observe native bird species and plants while enjoying the cool climate of this upland forest.
9. Mauna Kea Beach
PRISTINE CRESCENT SHORELINE
Mauna Kea Beach is a crescent-shaped shoreline with powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach offers excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, with a coral reef that attracts numerous tropical fish and sometimes manta rays. Located on the Kohala Coast, this beach is consistently rated among the best beaches in Hawaii and the United States.
10. Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area
PERFECT SWIMMING DESTINATION
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area boasts one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island with a half-mile of shoreline. The beach offers lifeguard services, picnic areas, and facilities that make it ideal for a full day of sun and swimming. During calm conditions, the clear waters make for excellent swimming and bodyboarding, while winter months can bring exciting surf conditions.
11. Pololu Valley Overlook
DRAMATIC COASTAL VISTAS
Pololu Valley Overlook offers spectacular views of the northeastern coastline of the Big Island and the verdant valley below. Visitors can hike down a moderately challenging trail to reach the black sand beach at the valley floor. The overlook marks the end of Highway 270 and provides a perfect finale to a scenic drive along the North Kohala coast.
12. Parker Ranch
HISTORIC HAWAIIAN RANCH
Parker Ranch is one of the oldest and largest cattle ranches in the United States, spanning over 130,000 acres of the Big Island. Visitors can explore the ranch's museum, historic homes, and learn about Hawaii's paniolo (cowboy) heritage and culture. The working ranch offers tours that showcase its operations, Hawaiian horsemanship traditions, and the breathtaking landscape of the upcountry Waimea area.
13. Big Island Farms Tour
AGRICULTURAL EXPLORATION EXPERIENCE
Big Island Farms Tour provides visitors with an immersive experience of Hawaii's diverse agricultural offerings. The tour takes guests to various farms where they can learn about tropical fruit cultivation, coffee production, and sustainable farming practices. Participants enjoy sampling fresh produce while gaining insight into the island's agricultural heritage and future.
14. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
LUXURY BEACH ACCOMMODATION
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views and direct access to Hapuna Beach. The resort features multiple dining options, including restaurants serving fresh local seafood and produce in elegant settings. Guests can enjoy amenities such as an 18-hole golf course, spa services, and two swimming pools within the beautifully landscaped property.
15. Laupahoehoe Farm Animal Sanctuary
COMPASSIONATE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTER
Laupahoehoe Farm Animal Sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued farm animals and wildlife. Visitors can take private tours to interact with the animals and learn about animal welfare and conservation efforts. The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with animals in a compassionate environment while supporting their ongoing rescue work.