Big Island North Kohala Coast and Pololu Lookout Private Tour

Discover the Big Island North Kohala Coast and Pololu Lookout Private Tour

The Big Island North Kohala Coast and Pololu Lookout Private Tour by Aloha Motorsports offers an exhilarating 4-hour adventure for up to two people at a cost of $305.03 per group. This tour stands out for its combination of scenic drives, cultural sites, and breathtaking viewpoints, all explored in the fun of a Polaris Slingshot. The tour includes visits to Puukohola National Historic Park, Mahukona Beach Park, and the Pololu Valley Lookout — each offering unique insights into the island’s history and natural beauty.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the use of performance-enhanced Polaris Slingshots, which are easy to drive and allow for a lively, open-air ride. The completely private nature of the tour guarantees an intimate, flexible pace, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a personalized exploration of North Kohala’s highlights. However, drivers must have a valid license and be at least 21 years old, with a fully refundable security deposit required at pickup.

Key Points

• Private 4-hour tour for up to 2 people at $305.03 per group
• Driving a Polaris Slingshot with performance settings for an exciting ride
• Visits include Puukohola National Historic Park, Mahukona Beach, and Pololu Valley
• Tour ends back at the starting point in Waikoloa Village
• Suitable for drivers 21+, with a valid license and security deposit required
• Flexible pace allows you to spend more time at your favorite stops

Starting Point and Tour Duration

This private tour begins at 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village and lasts approximately 4 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The full day’s worth of exploration is condensed into a manageable time frame, with the freedom to linger at scenic locations or explore local shops in Hawi.

The mobile ticket format simplifies access, and since it’s a private experience, only your group participates. The tour’s flexible pacing allows you to take in the sights at your leisure, making it a tailored adventure for those who want a personalized experience.

Exploring Puukohola National Historic Park

The first stop is Puukohola National Historic Park, home to the last major Hawaiian temple ruins. This site is deeply linked to Kamehameha I, famous for unifying the Hawaiian Islands. The heiau (temple), called Puukohol, was built entirely by hand using red stones transported over 14 miles from Pololu Valley by human chain. This construction involved thousands of people and was completed in less than a year, making it a remarkable feat.

Visitors can also see the remains of an earlier temple, Mailekini Heiau. The site is a significant cultural landmark, providing a glimpse into the island’s ancient spiritual practices and Kamehameha’s historical influence. The 30-minute stop includes free admission and offers enough time to appreciate the scale and significance of this historic location.

Stops at Mahukona Beach Park and Its Heritage

Next, the tour visits Mahukona Beach Park, a site with a rich past as a transportation hub and port for the sugar industry. Historically, Mahukona was the terminus of the Hawaiian Railroad, facilitating the export of sugarcane from surrounding plantations. The harbor was developed by Samuel Gardner Wilder, and remnants of the sugar mill still stand today.

Though its importance declined after the railroad closed in 1945, the 15-minute stop offers a brief but informative look at the area’s past. It’s a great spot to enjoy the ocean views and imagine the bustling port that once thrived here.

Exploring Hawi and the King Kamehameha Statue

The charming town of Hawi serves as a hub for local food, crafts, and souvenirs. Its streets feature numerous shops and restaurants, perfect for a quick browse or a snack break. One highlight is the original Statue of King Kamehameha, located nearby, which the tour guides recommend visiting.

The 15-minute stop at Hawi allows visitors to explore the town’s local flavor and see the statue, which is a prominent cultural symbol. The town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite for those wanting a taste of small-town Hawaiian life.

The Iconic King Kamehameha Statue

The King Kamehameha I statue is an outdoor sculpture created by Thomas Ridgeway Gould in 1880. It was installed in 1883 in front of the old courthouse and remains a well-known symbol of Hawaiian heritage. The statue’s commanding presence offers a perfect photo opportunity and provides context for the history of Hawaii’s most famous king.

A brief 15-minute stop here allows for appreciation of the craftsmanship and the cultural significance of this monument.

The Magnificent Pololu Valley Lookout

The Pololu Valley Lookout is the highlight for many visitors. Known for its deeply carved black sand beach and a yellow sand dune, the valley is a stunning natural feature on the east coast of Kohala Mountain. The name “Polol”, meaning “long spear”, hints at the valley’s shape and rugged beauty.

This 30-minute stop provides sweeping views of the valley, Polol Stream, and the lush landscape. Historically, the valley was used for kalo (taro) farming, including crimson-stemmed varieties, and saw rice cultivation in the 1800s. The nearby Kohala ditch channels water from Honokane Valley to local sugarcane fields, highlighting the area’s agricultural past.

Kohala Mountain Scenic Point and the Ride to Waimea

The tour offers a twisty scenic drive along Kohala Mountain Road to Waimea. At the scenic lookout, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Kohala Valley. The 15-minute stop is perfect for snapping photos and absorbing the breathtaking landscape.

Waimea serves as the region’s ranching center, home to Parker Ranch, one of the largest privately owned cattle ranches in the United States. The town also hosts notable events like the Fourth of July rodeo and the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival. Plus, it’s the site of two astronomical observatories on Mauna Kea — the W. M. Keck Observatory and the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope.

Logistics and Practical Considerations

This private tour starts at Waikoloa Village and ends back at the same location. The full 4 hours give ample time to enjoy each stop, with the flexibility to explore or relax as desired. Participants must have a valid driver’s license and be 21 or older to drive, with a refundable security deposit of $750 or $1,500.

Since the tour is conducted in a Polaris Slingshot, which is fun and easy to drive, the experience appeals to those comfortable with manual or automatic driving. The performance settings enhance cornering, adding a sporty dimension to the scenic ride.

A Unique and Personal Hawaiian Adventure

What sets this tour apart is the private nature and the personalized pace it offers. The scenic drives on Highway 250 Mountain Road and Kohala Mountain Road** provide stunning vistas that are best enjoyed at leisure. The stops at historic sites and natural viewpoints are carefully selected to blend cultural insight with spectacular scenery.

The flexibility of the 4-hour ride allows for an experience tailored to your interests, whether that’s lingering longer at Pololu Valley or taking photos at Hawi. The modern Polaris Slingshot adds a fun, sporty element to the journey, making it a memorable way to explore North Kohala.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for small groups or couples seeking a private, customizable tour with a mix of history, scenery, and adventure. It’s perfect for those comfortable with driving a Polaris Slingshot and interested in Hawaiian culture and natural beauty. The tour’s relaxed pace suits travelers who want to take their time and avoid crowded tourist spots.

Final Words on the Big Island North Kohala Coast Tour

The Big Island North Kohala Coast and Pololu Lookout Private Tour offers a unique blend of cultural sites, scenic drives, and natural wonders all wrapped into a flexible four hours. The performance-enhanced Polaris Slingshot makes for an exciting ride that complements the stunning landscapes and historic landmarks.

While it’s a more personalized experience with limited stops for longer exploration, the quality of the viewpoints, cultural insights, and scenic drives makes this tour a worthwhile choice for those wanting a more intimate and adventure-filled Hawaiian experience. Just remember the driver requirements and security deposit, which are important practical details to prepare for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or passengers of any age?
Passengers of any age can participate as long as they can sit securely in the seat, but drivers must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license.

How long do I spend at each stop?
The average duration at each location ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, but since you have the full 4 hours with the Polaris Slingshot, you can choose to spend more time at your favorite spots.

What kind of vehicle is used for this tour?
The tour uses Polaris Slingshots, which are fun, easy to drive, and feature performance settings for a more sporty, cornering-focused ride.

Are there any physical requirements or limitations?
Participants must be able to sit securely in the vehicle, and drivers must hold a valid driver’s license. The tour is designed for most travelers but requires driver age 21+.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

How do I book or contact the provider?
Bookings are available through the provided link, and inquiries can be directed to Dustin at Aloha Motorsports via [email protected] or +1 808-667-7000.