Entitled as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, I have to say, this canyon is even better than the Grand Canyon. Not as big, but definitely more colorful than its bigger brother. The lookout provides already a breathtaking scenery but you should also consider a hike into the canyon to beautiful waterfalls and fantastic lookouts.

Waimea Canyon Lookout

But before you do that, drive to the end of the road, passing Koke'e State Park, to the spectacular view into Kalalau Valley. It's like a picture postcard view with majestic cliffs to the right and the ocean in front of you.

Kalalau Valley

Po'omau Canyon

This is also the point, where the trail into Alaka'i Swamp, one of the wettest spots on earth starts. There are a lot of hiking oportunities in Waimea Canyon, we did the Po'omau Canyon Ditch trail, a 8-mile hike with spectacular vistas into Po'omau Canyon. Starting point is the Mohihi Camp Road, a dirt road, going off the highway at Koke'e Lodge. After 1.5 mile you'll come to a sign saying: 4wd only. Leave your car there (unless you happen to have a 4x4 of course) and walk another 0.7 miles until you get to the entry point of the trail to your right. The way back is via Kumuwela Road until you get to Mohihi Camp Road where your car is waiting. The whole tour makes a good day hike...and don't forget to pack in something for lunch, at the end of the ditch trail is a perfect spot for that...

	Po'omau Canyon		view from the ridge