Hanapepe Valley
Eleele, Hawaii
Hike
The glory days of Hanapepe may be over but it is still the "biggest little town" on the South Shore. The town was started by Chinese rice farmers in the late 1800's. It was the only town that was not associated with a plantation. It gained a reputation as a wild spot with numerous bars and brawls. In the 1970's and 1980's it began to decline, especially when the Kukui Grove Shopping Center was opened in 1982. The town was used in the filming of the movie "The Thorn Birds". However, in 1992, Hurricane Iniki took a great toll on the city and it has never fully recovered. The swinging foot bridge was replaced after the hurricane of 1992 tore it down. This little town is nestled in the Hanapepe Valley next to the Hanapepe River.
Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Eleele, Hawaii
- Head west on Koula Rd toward Kona Rd (253 ft)
- Turn left onto Kona Rd (351 ft)
- Turn right onto HI-50 W (0.8 mi)
Take Highway 50 west. Hanapepe is located at Mile Marker #17. The Hanapepe Lookout is located at Mile Marker #14.
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