Awini Trail

At the end of Hawaii State Route 270 near the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawai'i lies the Pololu Valley, a gorgeous and lush basin protected by a dense tropical jungle. A short, steep hike on the Awini Trail from the end of the road leads through the trees to the valley floor. In one direction you'll have views of the green valley, and in the other direction you'll see the turquoise Pacific Ocean from a secluded beach with black sand. It's a memorable hike that is not on the itinerary of most tourists to the Big Island.

The trail is somewhat slippery, especially in rainy conditions, and some sections are a bit steep, especially near the beginning. Don't let this section deter you, however. In all this is a fairly short hike that is a little less than a half mile there and back, and many points along the trail offer spectacular views of the Pololu Valley and the Big Island coastline that will certainly justify the drive out to the trailhead.

It is worth noting that the beach at Pololu Valley is particularly prone to dangerous tides and Portuguese man o' war. Further, there is no lifeguard present on the beach. Use caution when going into the ocean here if you choose to do so.