Pololu Valley Hike TIPS | Hawaii Guide and information

Here's what you need to know about Pololu Valley Hike in Big Island, Hawaii I will be sharing tips and information about the hike.
How to Get there:
Pololu Valley is located in north Kohala on the eastern slope of the extinct Kohala volcano at the northernmost point of the Big Island.
Take Hwy. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa’au.
Park at the end of the highway at the Pololū Valley overlook. There is room for about 10 cars at the end of the road in a parking area that fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
THE HIKE:
Start at the Pololū Valley overlook and find the trailhead for the Awini Trail marked by an extensive array of “danger” signs. Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. One switchback is a particularly good spot for a photo. The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead.
The hike down the side of the cliff to the valley floor is short but steep: ~420 ft in 0.6 miles (126 meters in 1.0 kilometers) and takes about 20 to 25 minutes for the average hiker.
The Valley Floor
The black sand beach at the valley floor looks like a beach at the end of the world. A lush tropical forest surrounded by almost 500 ft high cliffs and fronted by an ocean that more often than not has high surf and rough waves.
The flora changes abruptly into large ironwood trees just behind the beach. Quickly cross the Pololū River where it meets the sea. The crossing might be dry. This river is fed by agricultural runoff, so carefully consider how you treat this water before drinking.
The best part is that there are tons of ROPE SWINGS hanging by large ironwood where you can swing! and some people put their hammock in between trees.
WARNINGS/TIPS:
Say aloha or wave the shaka sign when you encounter or pass someone :)
Hike early during the day to avoid crowds and it gets hot and sweaty specially during the hike up.
Check the weather before your hike, it gets muddy and slippery when it rains.
Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in valley or at the lookout.
Wear standard hiking gear. The beach has no services, so plan accordingly
THERE IS NO LIFEGUARD. The ocean is not safe for swimming. The water here is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by very experienced swimmers and surfers.
Camping overnight is illegal
Keep in mind though that the land further back is privately owned and that there are sacred burial sites deeper in the valley. Don’t venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldn’t be disturbed.
Music is by Iklon