Located on Hawaii Island’s Hamakua Coast – away from all the tourists hanging out in Kona, or at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – is Waipio Valley, the southernmost and largest of the seven valleys of Kohala Mountain. And though the valley’s lookout point is no stranger to tourists hopping out of their cars to snap a few photographs of this picturesque spot, the valley below is an untouched wonder home to a breathtaking black sand beach, one of Hawaii’s tallest waterfalls, and the infamous wild horses in Hawaii.

The sacred Waipio Valley was once the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I, and is an important site for Hawaiian history and culture.
Paul Bica/Flickr
Donal Mountain/Flickr
According to oral history, as many as 10,000 people lived in Waipio Valley before Captain Cook’s landing in 1778. A group of Chinese immigrants settled in the valley in the late 1800 and built churches, restaurants, schools, and even a hotel, post office, and jail. But the devastating tsunami of 1946 destroyed the town, and today, only 50 people call the valley home.
History aside, "The Valley of the Kings" certainly appears as though it was made for royalty — the valley is surrounded by tropical vegetation and 2,000-foot high cliffs.
SF Brit/Flickr
While this Big Island valley is often seen from above at the Waipio Valley lookout, you will need to hike 1.5 miles from the parking lot down to the valley floor, where you will find countless magical wonders, including…
Hector A Parayuelos/Flickr

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…a breathtaking black sand beach…
Paul Bica/Flickr
While the blue waters lapping against the black sand might seem inviting, the surf can be pretty rough here, so take warning, and maybe only dip your feet in a little.
...one of the island’s tallest waterfalls…
Les Williams/Flickr
Hi’ilawe Falls, an impressive 1,400-foot cascade, can only be seen from within the Waipio Valley, and isn’t even guaranteed to be flowing. It is, however, one of the tallest waterfalls found throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
...and, of course, wild horses roaming the valley.
John Penny/Flickr
Wild horses have called this remote valley home as long as anyone can remember, and they are quite used to human guests — but don't be surprised if the wild horses fail to make an appearance during your visit.
Though Waipio Valley is absolutely breathtaking, the road to the valley’s floor from the lookout is pretty gnarly, gaining 800 vertical feet in just 0.6 miles, making it the steepest road of its length in the United States.
Nathanael Coyne/Flickr
While it is possible to drive the road into Waipio Valley if you have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle, it is often on the list of prohibited places to take a rental car.
John Penny/Flickr
If you choose to make the journey on foot, be sure to conserve your energy, because the trek back is going to be a lot more difficult. Honestly, the best way to explore the valley is by horseback. If you’re planning to explore beyond the beach, it is recommended that you hire a tour guide, because the valley is quite remote, and in addition to private property rights, it is also easy to become lost or stranded here.

We all know about the sea turtles, fish and marine life, and avian species that call the Aloha State home, but wild horses in Hawaii? That’s something you simply must see to believe! Did you know about these beauteous beasts in Hawaii? Have you ever encountered wild horses at the breathtaking Waipio Valley in Hawaii? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!

For guaranteed animal encounters, why not arrange a private tour of Hawaii’s only fully-accredited, USDA licensed, exotic animal sanctuary, Three Ring Ranch.

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More to Explore

Wild Horses in Hawaii

Sarah M. | July 22, 2022

Is the Waipio Valley the only place to see wild horse in Hawaii?

If you desire dramatic views of Hawaii Island’s northeastern coastline and impressive cliffs, head to Pololu Valley, Waipio Valley’s lesser-known — but no less resplendent — cousin. With a stunning black sand beach, horses grazing on the hillside and small islands offshore, Pololu Valley is one of Hawaii's most stunning destinations; a magical place full of wonderful wildlife sure to leave you in total awe!

What other animals roam free in Hawaii?

Hawaii might be best-known for its green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and tropical fish, but there's a fascinating area of the island where wild cows roam free. Hawaii Island is home to scores of cattle, including the largest contiguous ranch in the U.S., Parker Ranch. The island is also home to thousands of wild cows that were introduced at the end of the 18th century and roam the forested areas of the island. The massive herds destroyed crops; and while hunting was eventually allowed, many of the feral cattle remain to this day. The best places to spot them are while driving across the middle of the island on the Saddle Road, as well as the Mauna Kea Access Road.

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Featured Addresses
Waipio Valley Lookout, Kukuihaele, HI 96727, USA