Hālawa Valley
Hālawa Valley
4.5
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Situated on the eastern side of Molokai.
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- Terry LSparta, New Jersey16 contributionsMemorable experience in Halawa ValleyOne of the highlights of my 2-week stay in Molokai. Starts with an interesting hour-long discussion about the history and culture of Hawaii, Molokai and Hālawa Valley. Fascinating. Learned a lot. The hike was moderate but not easy—had to navigate over and under fallen trees and over streams. Be sure to bring good hiking and water shoes. The highlight of the day were the waterfalls and the swimming hole—brace yourself for chilly water! Acclimated quickly. The drive to and from Halawa was a treat unto itself — narrow, winding road along the cliff with outstanding views. Halawa Valley Beach itself was not as nice as Murphy Beach (mile post 20) or Sandy Beach (about two miles further east), which you pass along the way. Even though the guides charge $75/person, I highly recommend — the trail and waterfalls are on private property so you can’t do it on your own.Visited March 2024Traveled soloWritten March 23, 2024
- Sean CHaleiwa, Hawaii1,782 contributionsBeautiful valley, and breathtaking scenery on the winding drive thereBeautiful valley, and breathtaking scenery on the winding drive there. *Note: the drive is definitely not as twist/turn as “the road to hana” but it is up and down cliffs and mountainside much of the way, on a narrow road, some parts are one lane. The views on the way to the valley are just as beautiful as the valley and enormous waterfall itself. We did not have a hiking tour, and were disappointed we didn’t arrange for this in advance. Nevertheless we enjoyed our time and appreciated the beautiful valley and chilled on the beach for a bit. There are public bathrooms (decent enough) which was nice after the 45+min drive. Would recommend.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 6, 2024
- Gina MClawson, Michigan22 contributionsGreat Cultural ExperienceI learned so much from the pre-hike talk, and am glad I did this before other touristy things in the other islands. Greg and Devak were so kind to share their land, food, knowledge and family with us. The hike itself is around 3 miles each way, and the toughest parts were the river crossings. Pro-tip, wear shoes in the river, even if it means hiking with wet shoes the rest of the way. This is a great way to get immersed in real Hawaiian culture, I highly recommend it as a top thing to do.Visited November 2024Traveled with friendsWritten November 20, 2024
- Teddi C2 contributionsBest time ever!My friend and i visited from missouri and decided to take the cultural hike. Omg, im so glad we did it..it was one of the most amazing things i have seen and felt! We had the honor of being guided by the grandson, Devak, and wow, he was extremely knowledgeable and very friendly. Thank you for the wonderful history lesson and a fabulous hike and extraordinary scenery. I feel honored to be allowed to share a glimpse into your life..thank you for a great time!Visited December 2024Traveled with friendsWritten December 8, 2024
- Navigator025929664282 contributionsMust-see on MolokaiI can absolutely recommend the Halawa Valley Tour on Molokai! It is one of my top highlights during my Hawaii trip and definitely a must if you are on the island. I took part in it today and am still fascinated and inspired by Greg and his passion for teaching you about Hawaiian culture and history. The hike to the beautiful waterfall was the icing on the cake. Greg is such a friendly, warm-hearted person and it is impressive how he is connected to nature and shares all his huge knowledge about it. Mahalo Greg for sharing your culture and showing us your beautiful home. You are doing a great job!Visited January 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten January 6, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
243 reviews
Excellent
181
Very good
39
Average
13
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2
Terrible
8
Jessica C
Maple Valley, WA32 contributions
Dec 2021
This was an amazing experience! Be prepared for it to last the full five hours. I thoroughly enjoyed the first hour of Greg sharing parts of his culture and family history coupled with photographs. I don't think I'll look at anything that I do in Hawaii the same ever again now that I've been given a glimpse into the "authentic Hawaiian culture" that is still alive in the Halawa Valley.
Greg's son, nephew, and cousin did a wonderful job helping with the river crossings (more on this later) and were a wealth of knowledge being able to answer just about any question that we asked. They made my mom (just turned 60 and hates water) more comfortable crossing the unexpected rivers.
A thing to note: this hike is not super easy (but nor is it super difficult), you are going up and over obstacles the entire way up. It is roughly 2+ miles from the picnic area that you meet at. There isn't much elevation gain, but lots you can trip on so you have to pay attention to where you walk. Also, depending upon the rain, these are definitely river crossings. My husband and I started with hiking shoes but quickly changed into high quality water shoes with rubber soles for the remainder of the hike. I would highly recommend this option so you don't have to carry your hiking shoes, but make sure that they are higher quality ones that have a rubber sole (not foam). The river crossings were higher than usual due to rain, but be prepared to cross in knee deep water with current. As mentioned the guides did an amazing job getting people across without incident, but that was something we weren't expecting when we booked. I also wouldn't recommend this for young children, I'd probably keep it to a capable 7 year old and up, otherwise you might end up carrying them across the rivers which looks dangerous.
Overall, an AMAZING experience that I would do again in a heart beat. My husband and I loved every minute of it. Don't let the price tag sway you, it is well worth the amount paid.
Greg's son, nephew, and cousin did a wonderful job helping with the river crossings (more on this later) and were a wealth of knowledge being able to answer just about any question that we asked. They made my mom (just turned 60 and hates water) more comfortable crossing the unexpected rivers.
A thing to note: this hike is not super easy (but nor is it super difficult), you are going up and over obstacles the entire way up. It is roughly 2+ miles from the picnic area that you meet at. There isn't much elevation gain, but lots you can trip on so you have to pay attention to where you walk. Also, depending upon the rain, these are definitely river crossings. My husband and I started with hiking shoes but quickly changed into high quality water shoes with rubber soles for the remainder of the hike. I would highly recommend this option so you don't have to carry your hiking shoes, but make sure that they are higher quality ones that have a rubber sole (not foam). The river crossings were higher than usual due to rain, but be prepared to cross in knee deep water with current. As mentioned the guides did an amazing job getting people across without incident, but that was something we weren't expecting when we booked. I also wouldn't recommend this for young children, I'd probably keep it to a capable 7 year old and up, otherwise you might end up carrying them across the rivers which looks dangerous.
Overall, an AMAZING experience that I would do again in a heart beat. My husband and I loved every minute of it. Don't let the price tag sway you, it is well worth the amount paid.
Written January 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LoveMrEd2
Collinsville, OK36 contributions
Jan 2023 • Family
This was an incredible cultural experience from the source. Greg is actively in position to carry the torch of teaching people about their true Hawaiian experience. The roots of their family in this valley go back to when there was a thriving community prior to the 1946 tsunami, where all survived due to working together to escape the waters.
Fascinating stories from am engaging, charismatic family, I wish I had unlimited time and opportunity to listen. I can't emphasize enough what an amazing opportunity this was.
I feel like many other reviews glossed over the reality of the hike to the waterfall. For young, fit hikers, this is probably what I would consider a moderate hike. For anyone whose "fitness" is challenged-- whether by health, condition, agree, etc., I would call this difficult. There is some clambering over boulders, jumping from rock to rock, wading, etc. There's ducking under branches, getting over fallen logs, etc., So requires strength, flexibility and agility.
Tanner and Devak are impressively patient and knowledgable.
Make sure to do your due diligence on planning the time it takes to drive there and back. The drive is amazingly beautiful, but is a one lane road for the last few miles.
There is supposedly a good ahi sandwich available at a place near mile marker 16, but it was closed by the time we got by there on our way back.
Fascinating stories from am engaging, charismatic family, I wish I had unlimited time and opportunity to listen. I can't emphasize enough what an amazing opportunity this was.
I feel like many other reviews glossed over the reality of the hike to the waterfall. For young, fit hikers, this is probably what I would consider a moderate hike. For anyone whose "fitness" is challenged-- whether by health, condition, agree, etc., I would call this difficult. There is some clambering over boulders, jumping from rock to rock, wading, etc. There's ducking under branches, getting over fallen logs, etc., So requires strength, flexibility and agility.
Tanner and Devak are impressively patient and knowledgable.
Make sure to do your due diligence on planning the time it takes to drive there and back. The drive is amazingly beautiful, but is a one lane road for the last few miles.
There is supposedly a good ahi sandwich available at a place near mile marker 16, but it was closed by the time we got by there on our way back.
Written January 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greta B
Calvert City, KY9 contributions
Apr 2023
My niece decided to sign us up for the Halawa Valley Cultural Hike with The Solatorio Family. From the beginning, you are immersed in local culture as your guide blows a conch shell to let the family know that we care coming. After a gift exchange greeting, we were given a wonderful talk about the valley, the people and the culture of the area. Then, we went on a hike up the valley to a waterfall, where we were free to swim, relax and rest. It was a highlight of our trip to Molokai. Be sure to pack water, snacks and wer GOOD hiking shoes/sandals!
Written May 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tracy V
7 contributions
May 2024 • Family
The drive is very difficult and you tube videos we watched ahead of time made it seem a better destination than it really is so don’t be fooled by the you tubers who like to put out click bait. Small rocky beaches and brownish sand with no amenities. Any hiking in area is on private property so you need a local guide to arrange ahead of time. Disappointing.
Written May 17, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gary B
Vancouver, Canada482 contributions
Feb 2023
We drove out to Halawa Bay on our own from Kaunakakai town. The route takes you along the waterfront as far as Murphy's Beach and then up into the hills to Puu O Hoku Ranch. Along the way, watch out for Kewala Plantation, Kakahaia Wildlife reserve, The Pukahuwa Battlefield where Kamehameha defeated the island rulers to add Molokai to his kingdom, the Smith-Bronte Landing (or crash) site, the Bellstone, Lihuopae Haiue (difficult to find), the Pukoo Grindz store (great for local lunches and strong coffee), a number of taro patches, the Dunbar Cottages, and lots of beaches, harbours and lookout points. If you are lucky you might see a mongoose (which we did see), deer, and even a nene. The road is paved all the way to Halawa, although you should watch for rock fall on the switchbacks down int to he bay. We regretfully had not booked the hike up to the falls, and the local tropical flower farms was closed the day we drove out. We parked at the end of the road and walked the beaches and waded in the river, and then headed back. If I ever go to Molokai again, I will book the hike and if it's available might stay at one of the cottages at Puu O Hoku ranch because this end of the island is really something.
Written March 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Al L
21 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
The pre trip talk before hiking to the falls was a great way to get immersed to the local lore and history. First time eating a Hawaiian banana from the tree and starfruit. Great hike and swim at the falls. Guide was excellent and very helpful.
Written November 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nati0nalParkFan
Saint Louis, MO22 contributions
Jan 2020
I made reservations on-line for the tour/hike a month ahead of time. Just two days before the hike, I got an email saying the tour had been cancelled and my credit card credited for the fee but I could still take the tour, but had to pay cash. It didn't make much sense to me. I drove out th Halawa Valley (an hour drive), waited 30 minutes and no one ever showed up. I'm still not sure what was going on.
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christy G
12 contributions
Feb 2023
I have traveled extensively and I can honestly say this place was in the top two. Imagine being dropped in Jurassic World with hardly anyone else about. People think that my pictures are photoshopped all the time and I have to assure then that they are real and I was standing there when I took the picture. Incredible.
Written February 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cathy E
Lahaina, HI17 contributions
Jul 2021 • Couples
Definitely go on the Halawa Valley Falls cultural hike. So beautiful. Greg welcomes you to his home and guides you through the valley while providing lessons of the true Hawaiian culture. Be prepared to cross a stream with flowing water that can go up to your knees. I wore my water shoes and was glad I did. It is a once in a lifetime adventure.
Written July 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elenita D
Penn Valley, CA37 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
This was not only an adventurous hike to a beautiful waterfall but also a fabulous cultural experience. My husband and I learned a lot about the real history of the area. It was a very interesting presentation before the hike, given by the son of the last living resident. You’ll meet the grandfather, the son and grandson.
At the waterfall you can swim, eat your lunch, relax before heading back.
The drive out there is also a beautiful, scenic drive.
At the waterfall you can swim, eat your lunch, relax before heading back.
The drive out there is also a beautiful, scenic drive.
Written December 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What level of fitness is required for the hike to the falls?
Written February 15, 2019
We didn't do it as it was raining the day we went out there, but I would say mid level fitness. We are physically fit but don't work out to stay in shape. We saw some people of all types and sizes hiking from the morning tour . Sorry I'm so late to answer.
Written March 3, 2019
hallo und guten tag, danke für ihren bericht, wie kann ich den von ihnen erwähnten guide kontaktieren? wollte gerne email, oder telefon.
können sie mir auch die kosten für die führung sagen
danke und mfg
wolfgang decker, neuwied,
Written August 30, 2017

A Tripadvisor member
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Someone stated the father and son talked for a long time, two to three hours about the history of the islands. This person wrote because of rain their hike was cancelled until the next day. Was wondering if that was the reason the information session lasted so long or was the long information session the usual?
Written September 1, 2016
My impression from our greeter and out guide is that they are VERY proud of their heritage and culture. They seemed quite happy to share it with us and answer any questions that we had. However, I did get the sense that not all of the guides and groups that offer this hike have the same feeling or knowledge. Our greeter was likely the one you mention as we did walk to their house & observe a greeting ceremony with our guide, the greeter and his father. As we hiked, our guide was great and answered ALL the questions my 14 year old, very inquisitive son could ask. It was great, but may depend on who you get. We booked our hike through the shop in town, but search Halawa valley Molokai
Written October 27, 2016
There seem to be a lot of alternatives for guides - why do you recommend Eddie Tanaka, as opposed to the Solotorio family? And should we take water shoes of some sort to cross the rivers?
Thanks
cathy
Written December 28, 2015
We learned that if you try to walk in on your own, the owner stops you and charges you the fee.
A real highway robber ! He owns the land.
We drove to the end of the road and enjoyed lovely view up River to the fall. The shoreline is very lovely there, also.
Written November 17, 2015
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