Pololū Valley Trail

A short but steep trail at the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala, dropping about 400 feet to a boulder-and-black-sand beach. It was closed for maintenance in May 2026, led by the community group Protect Pololū ʻOhana, and a management plan with reservations is in the works. Check the current status before you go.

• Length: about 0.6 mile each way and roughly 400 feet of elevation; it's slick and rocky, so wear real shoes.
• May 2026: the trail closed temporarily for maintenance led by Protect Pololū ʻOhana with DLNR. A management plan and a future reservation system have been announced.
• The lookout at the end of the road is the easy option and has the classic valley view.
• Don't swim at the beach: there are no lifeguards, and strong currents and big surf are common.
• Parking at the end of the road is very limited; don't block the road or residents' driveways.

Source: Hawaii News Now: Pololū trail temporarily closes for maintenance (May 14, 2026)

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.