Black Sands Beach and Stream Crossing

At the mouth of Waipio Valley, there is a black sands beach which spans the entire width of the valley mouth (approx. 4,500 ft.).  There is a very large surf at Waipio beach, producing a dangerous undertow.  Large volcanic rocks have been transported onto the beach, evidencing powerful wave action.  The black sand on Waipio beach is very fine grained and smooth.

 Several tsunamis have hit Waipio Valley, causing major devastation to taro farms and residential homes.  As a tsunami slams into the beach, Waipio Valley acts a funnel forcefully channeling water up valley.  The tsunami of 1946  severely damaged homes when 55-foot waves were funneled up valley.  In effect, there are hardly any residents inhabiting Waipio Valley.

The Waipio River enters the ocean at the mouth of Waipio Valley.  In order to continue our way to the Z-Trail, we had to cross the Waipio River.  The stream levels fluctuate with precipitation events and with the tide level.  The stream level was luckily lowered for our first crossing.

Feral horses inhabit Waipio Valley.  They are very tame and people friendly and often come to visit people on the beach.  Courtney made a friend!

Day 4: Waipio Valley Main

Hawaii Field Study 2005 Main