For 22 miles the region unfolds in dramatic cliff faces and verdant valleys along the coast from Ke’e Beach at the north and Polihale State Park on the western shoreline, making for some of the most glorious scenery in all of the Hawaiian Islands.
Sometimes impenetrable, five major valleys originally comprised the fertile homelands of enterprising early settlers who arrived by canoe, scaling rugged walls and ridges with the aid of rope ladders to drop into this incredible realm of nature.
Today, much of the populace, prompted by a later missionary influence, has drifted off toward the lure of ‘civilization’, leaving room for a new breed of reclusive pioneer to ‘drop out’ - rather than drop in - into a pristine wonderland that offers refuge and respite far from the madding crowds.
Naturally, kayaking and hiking are the best ways to experience the wilderness, but as it is definitely not to be missed, a range of alternatives to hoofing it exist as well.
Things to do
Missing some information? Got it wrong? Let us know.
O'ahu is the most visited of the Hawaiian Islands, home to the vibrant city of Waikiki Beach with its fantastic dining, shopping & nightlife, North Shore's banzai pipeline, snorkelling at Hanauma Bay, and an impressive arts and culture scene. Read more ...
