Waimea Valley is a 1,875-acre nature park and cultural preserve behind Waimea Bay, managed by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The walk along the valley floor follows a stream through botanical gardens planted with native and Polynesian species, past archaeological sites that document the valley's long human history, to a waterfall at the back of the valley with a swimming hole below it. The whole walk is about 1.5 miles each way and takes two to three hours at a comfortable pace.
The botanical collection is extensive — the valley has been used for horticultural research since the late nineteenth century and holds hundreds of species. The cultural programming includes demonstrations of traditional Hawaiian skills and, at certain times of year, hula performances. The admission fee goes toward maintaining the valley and supporting Hawaiian cultural programs, which makes it worth paying. Bring swim gear for the waterfall pool.