Water quality status and safety conditions
📍 North Kohala, Big Island — Remote black sand beach, hike-in only
Pololu Valley Beach is one of the Big Island's most dramatic and scenic destinations — a remote black sand beach framed by towering sea cliffs at the northern end of the Kohala Coast. However, the water quality here carries moderate risk due to Pololu Stream, which flows through the lush valley and empties directly at the beach.
The North Kohala coast receives more rainfall than the dry Kohala Coast resorts to the south. After rain — which can be heavy in the valley — the stream turns brown and delivers sediment, agricultural runoff, and bacteria to the ocean. The DOH does not regularly monitor this remote beach, which means bacteria levels are largely unknown on any given day.
During extended dry periods, the water can be clear and clean. But the combination of unreliable water quality data and extremely dangerous ocean conditions means swimming is not recommended at Pololu Valley Beach for most visitors. This is a beach to see, not to swim.
Based on: Stream-fed beach, limited DOH monitoring, North Kohala rainfall patterns, known strong current hazards
The DOH recommends at least 72 hours out of the water after heavy rain. At Pololu, with an active stream mouth, this rule is especially important. Wait until the stream runs clear before considering any water contact.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates. They are not real-time measurements.
Always verify with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙