• Pu’ukohola Heiau - These are the remnants of the last significant Ancient Hawaiian temple. This site holds historical importance due to its connection with Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands. The heiau, named Puʻukoholā, meaning “Temple on the Hill of the Whale,” was built under Kamehameha I’s direction, following the counsel of a revered priest to win the favor of the war god Kūkaʻilimoku. Constructed entirely by hand without mortar, the red stones for the temple were carried by a human chain approximately 14 miles from Pololū Valley. Thousands of people participated in the construction, which was completed in under a year.

The site also features the ruins of an earlier temple, Mailekini Heiau, and the nearby Hale o Kapuni, an underwater structure dedicated to sharks. Puʻukoholā Heiau was instrumental in the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under Kamehameha I, marking a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history.

• Mahukona Beach Park - Mahukona was once a settlement on the island of Hawaiʻi. This area served as the endpoint of the Hawaiian Railroad and played a vital role in the sugar industry’s history in the Kohala district. Mahukona was a key port where sugarcane from plantations on the wet windward side of Kohala was transported to ships for export. The harbor was developed by Samuel Gardner Wilder, who also constructed a pier at Mahukona harbor to support this trade.

A sugar mill was also established on the north side of the bay, and its remnants still exist today. Despite its early success, the port’s importance waned over time, and by 1945, the railroad had ceased operations. The town, which once housed about 40 families, was deserted in the 1950s, and the harbor was closed in 1956. Today, the bay is home to a Hawaii County park, known as Mahukona Beach Park, offering fishing, snorkeling, picnic areas, and camping, although it lacks a sandy beach.

• Hawi - Hawi is an excellent town for discovering locally produced food and souvenirs. There are numerous shops and restaurants. When leaving town, be sure to visit the original Statue of King Kamehameha.
• King Kamehameha Statue - The Kamehameha I statue is an outdoor sculpture by American artist Thomas Ridgeway Gould, cast in 1880 and installed in 1883. It stands in front of the old country courthouse.
• Pololu Valley Lookout - Pololū Valley is the northernmost of a series of erosional valleys that shape the east coast of Kohala Mountain. The name “Pololū” translates to “long spear” in Hawaiian. This valley is distinguished by its deep cut into the side of Kohala Mountain and is traversed by Pololū Stream. The valley is renowned for its breathtaking black sand beach and a yellow sand dune that shields the lush inland areas from the ocean.

Historically, Pololū Valley was a significant site for kalo (taro) farming, with a particular variety known for its crimson stems being cultivated here. The valley also experienced rice farming in the 1800s but fell into disuse in the 20th century. Part of the Kohala ditch, which diverts water from Honokane Valley to the sugarcane fields of the North Kohala district, runs along the sides of Pololū Valley.

• Kohala Mountain Scenic Point - The Kohala Mountain road offers a winding scenic drive to Waimea. Be sure to stop at the lookout for stunning views of the Kohala Valley.
• Waimea - Waimea is the hub of ranching activities in the region, with Parker Ranch, one of the largest privately owned cattle ranches in the United States, playing a crucial role in the community. The town is also famous for its annual Fourth of July rodeo, which is a major event. Another notable event in Waimea is the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival, held annually in the first week of February.

The town hosts the headquarters of two astronomical observatories located on Mauna Kea, the W. M. Keck Observatory and the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope. It is also home to the International Lunar Observatory Association.

• Use of a Polaris Slingshot vehicle for the rental period
• Helmets provided for all riders
• Pre-loaded, self-guided navigation tour

• Entrance fees to optional parks and attractions

Set off on an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Big Island North Kohala Coast with the exhilarating Pololu Lookout Tour.

Experience the ultimate Hawaiian joyride in our Polaris Slingshots, offering completely unobstructed views of the breathtaking landscape. Travel through the Town of Hawi and continue to the awe-inspiring Pololu Valley. Absorb the stunning panorama and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. Afterward, return to Hawi to explore the delightful shops or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants. Conclude your journey on the Highway 250 Mountain Road.

Our Polaris Slingshots are not only fun and easy to drive but also feature performance settings that turn them into cornering machines, adding an extra thrill to this scenic drive.

• On this tour you will be driving a Polaris Slingshot to each of the points of interest. The time listed at each stopping point is an average of time spent. You have the Slingshot for a full 4 hours so you can complete the tour at your own pace.
• Driver must have a valid driver’s license from any country and be 21+ years old for insurance. Passengers of any age must be able to securely sit in the seat.
• A fully refundable security deposit of $750 or $1,500 is required at the time of rental pickup.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.