Pololū Valley, Valley at the northern edge of Kohala Mountain, Hawaii County, United States
The valley stretches along steep cliffs and features a black sand beach with large lava rocks at the base of dramatic coastal formations.
The geological formation results from extensive erosion of Kohala Mountain, an extinct volcano that last erupted approximately 120,000 years ago.
The name Pololu means 'long spear' in Hawaiian, reflecting the extended shape of this natural formation carved into the northern Kohala coastline.
Visitors reach the beach through a quarter-mile steep trail that descends 420 feet from the parking area at Highway 270's endpoint.
The valley contains ironwood trees with rope swings near the beach, while a stream cuts through the landscape before meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Location: Hawaii County
GPS coordinates: 20.20044,-155.73121
Latest update: March 4, 2025 02:00
The Hawaiian Islands offer beaches with white, black, and red sand, formed through volcanic activity and coral erosion. Coastal areas display tide pools, sea caves, and lava formations. Inland, hiking trails lead through rainforest valleys to waterfalls and historic Heiau temples, which served as ceremonial sites for the Polynesian inhabitants. The volcanic geology has created lava tubes, craters, and calderas that are now accessible to visitors. Botanical gardens preserve native plant species, while archaeological sites like ancient settlements and petroglyph fields provide insights into pre-European history. The islands also feature limestone caves with marine fossils and reefs suitable for snorkeling.
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