Pololu Valley
UHH Home > Student Affairs > Housing > Residents' Life
Pololu
Valley is located at the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala. This is
a very remote area with no roads through this and the next six valleys
to the east that end at Waipi'o. The lookout at the top allows a view
of the rugged coast line with almost vertical cliffs over 400 feet high.
The heavy winter north shore surf pounds the base of the cliffs. However,
even when more normal surf conditions exist, this area is too dangerous
for swimming and surfing due to the strong currents and dangerous rocks
located just below the surface.
To get to the beach below the lookout, participants will hike down
a steep trail that normally takes about 20 minutes. The hike back up
will take considerably longer for most hikers. Although not too difficult,
the trail may be slippery especially during rainy periods. Near the
halfway point in the climb, a small platform area overlooks the beach
representing a good spot for pictures. At the bottom, large black sand
dunes, some over 100 feet high, can be seen mostly covered with vegetation.
On the opposite end of the valley, a trail leads up the wall to the
next valley, called Honokane Nui.
Inherent Risks
It is the responsibility of each participant to evaluate the various risks that they may be exposed to if they decide to participate in this program. Some of the inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Hiking down a steep incline on an uneven trail to the base of the valley can be strenuous
- Exposure to ocean conditions, rain run-off, stream crossings, or changing weather
- Exposure to the sun, heat exhaustion, sunstroke and/or dehydration
- Exhaustion from the hiking portion of the trip
- Falling or slipping while hiking down or up the trail to the valley
- Broken bones, cuts, scrapes, blisters or bruises.
- Transportation in vans to and from the Pololu Valley location
- Delays from being dropped off or picked-up from this remote area
Students are required to remain with the group during this program and not go on un-authorized selected activities or excursions without the group. If transportation is involved, participants must wear seat belts if available and are expected to return with the group.