The Scenic Road Into This Lush Hawaiian Valley Is So Dangerous You Can Only Visit On A Tour

Hawaii's Big Island has many exciting things to do, from exploring lush rainforests to visiting two active volcanoes, all surrounded by gorgeous beaches. Whether you're hiking through lava fields in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, the island offers adventure at every turn. But for thrill-seekers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Waipi'o Valley Road promises an unforgettable ride. This shockingly steep, winding road descends through thick jungle, leading to the noble Waipi'o Valley — a place of cascading waterfalls, a black sand beach, and cliffs that plunge into the ocean.

While Canton Avenue in Pittsburgh holds the title for America's steepest average grade at 30%, Waipi'o Valley Road is even more extreme at parts, with peak grades reaching up to 45%. To put that into perspective, imagine driving down a rollercoaster track — without the safety of a coaster car. The County of Hawai'i has deemed the road so dangerous that visitors are only allowed access via guided tours, citing safety and erosion concerns. Yet, as your tour vehicle inches its way down, heart pounding, you'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the valley below. The black sand beach gleams against the emerald landscape, waterfalls streak the towering cliffs, and the beauty of a sacred Hawaiian place once inhabited by kings unfolds in a way that makes every nerve-wracking moment worth it.

Waipi'o Valley Road is the only way into the valley, and the journey begins in Honoka'a, a vibrant town with unique cuisine and a charming historic feel. Most visitors fly into Kona International Airport and either rent a car for the hour-and-15-minute drive to Honokaa or hop on a free, hour-and-a-half bus ride. While renting a car is a great way to explore Big Island, be warned: Rental vehicles are prohibited from descending into Waipi'o Valley. The road is only accessible to residents, tour operators, and Native Hawaiians exercising traditional rights.

Another option is to take the breathtaking Hāmākua Heritage Corridor drive, a 45-mile coastal route from Hilo to the Waipi'o Valley Lookout. This drive winds along the slopes of Mauna Kea, offering glimpses of dramatic waterfalls, lush botanical gardens, and bridges spanning ravines. At the very end, the Waipi'o Valley Lookout provides a panoramic preview of the valley below — a great option if you want to experience its beauty without the hair-raising descent.

For those who crave adventure, guided tours are the only way down. The Waipi'o Valley Shuttle offers a nearly two-hour tour for $67 per adult, navigating the rough 1.4-mile road into the valley. Expect a pulse-pounding ride as the shuttle maneuvers through narrow switchbacks, vegetation brushing against the vehicle, and sections where only one car can pass at a time. It's not just the grade that makes the road treacherous — heavy rains can create slippery conditions, and runoff can lead to unexpected obstacles. Yet, with an experienced guide at the wheel, you'll be able to safely experience this legendary route.

As you step onto the valley floor, the sheer magnificence of Waipi'o Valley is overwhelming. This is more than just a stunning natural wonder — it's a sacred place woven into Hawaiian history. Known as the "Valley of the Kings," Waipi'o was once home to Hawaiian royalty, including King Kamehameha I. The valley's steep cliffs are said to hold burial caves where Hawaiian kings were laid to rest, testifying to its cultural significance. Much of the land is privately owned and still inhabited, so visitors should explore respectfully.

One of the valley's most striking features is its black sand beach — Hawaii is famous for its black sand beaches, formed by lava meeting the ocean and breaking down over time. From the beach, you might spot the Kaluahine Falls tumbling into the ocean, though these falls only appear after heavy rain. But the true highlight is Hi'ilawe Falls, the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, plunging up to 1,600 feet down the valley's cliffs. The Waipi'o Valley Shuttle tour includes a stop for this breathtaking cascade, where free-roaming horses wander through the lush rainforest, completing a dreamlike scene, well-earned after the journey in.