Waipiʻo Valley: lookout and access rules

The road into Waipiʻo Valley has been closed to visitors since February 2022, and an emergency rule signed July 1, 2026 keeps it limited to residents, permitted tours and Native Hawaiian practitioners. You can still visit the free lookout in Kukuihaele, or ride in with the Waipiʻo Valley Shuttle.

• The Waipiʻo Valley Lookout at the end of Highway 240 in Kukuihaele is open and free.
• Visitors may not drive or walk down the road. An emergency rule signed July 1, 2026 limits access to residents, permitted tours and Native Hawaiian practitioners.
• Permitted tour: the Waipiʻo Valley Shuttle runs about $75 for ages 12 and up and $41 for ages 3 to 11 (confirm current prices).
• The Hiʻilawe Falls hike crosses private land and isn't open to the public. Camping is suspended.
• From Hilo it's about an hour's drive along the Hāmākua Coast. Pair it with ʻAkaka Falls.

Source: Love Big Island: Waipiʻo Valley (Aug. 2026)

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