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- Honoka'a
Hike-in
Hike-in to pitches at this Hipcamp.
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Tent-only sites
3 sites
Instant book
po'ai nai'a
100%
(5)Hike-in access only
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Instant book
po'ai polo'ka
67%
(3)Hike-in access only
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Instant book
po'ai po'poki
Hike-in access only
4WD recommended
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Lodging
1 site
po'ai zula
100%
(4)Hike-in access only
4WD required
Campfires allowed
Toilet
Potable water
Reviews
92% Recommend12 ratings · 11 reviews
Jo’el was a gracious host and steward of the land. We were grateful to have had the opportunity to explore this sacred land. We seen wild horses, met new friends and shared time together around the campfire. Site #1 accommodated both of our hammock setups. My organic bug spray did not work so bring the DEET or long layers.
S
Sabrina S.
4 reviews
If you're searching for an adventurous, once in a lifetime, fun experience.. this stay is for you. Jo'el is an amazing host! He naturally guides people through the Waipio Valley, which is inaccessible to non-hawaiian residence. He takes you on an epic adventure through the valley to his amazing home nestled in the trees where he has lived for years. Coconuts, avacadoes and other wonderful fruits are plentyfull and you will waste no time being showing how to harvest and eat rare verieties. The beach, natural springs and watefalls make it all worth the hike in. This was an incredible way to explore historical, and most inaccessible Hawaii. The treehouse, which is available to stay in, is unique and a whole adventure in itself. We felt like we had the freedom to have space and explore solo if we wanted but Jo'el is so fun and full of information we chose to spend our days becoming friends. We will try our best to come back again soon! <3
Courtnee M.
2 reviews
Epic, back to the ‘Aina experience. Matthias embodied the spirit of aloha… he went above and beyond to sherpa luggage for our elder companion. This is not for the faint of heart. Don’t forget your organic mosquito repellent 🤙 Will be back!
Jonathan S.
11 reviews
This was a unique and beautiful experience to share with people living in and off the valley land of Big Island.
If you’re an experienced camper/adventure seeker you’ll love this stay.
You meet at the top of the valley and hike or drive down.
Joel and his friend Kama were very helpful in making sure we were comfortably set up for our stay. My partner and I learned so much about what life is like in the valley and the land itself. There is a deep respect for the people and land here, and all guests should come with this shared respect and curiosity.
They were extremely generous with their time, space, and knowledge. Joel showed us how to harvest food that we then cooked together in the outdoor kitchen space. We then explored the nearby secluded black sand beach where we played with Yoshi, the resident dog🐕
If you’re lucky you’ll meet the most affectionate host, Ulu 🐈
An unforgettable stay! We hope to return some day
D
Dani S.
2 reviews
Staying here was truly one of the most unique and special experiences of our big island trip — the highlight, without question. Jo’el and Kama were incredibly generous and welcoming hosts who made us feel like part of their world. They brought such warmth and fun to the entire stay.
This isn’t your typical stay — it’s an authentic, local experience that comes with its own quirks and adventures. But that’s exactly what makes it magical. We got to pick fresh fruit from the orchard, cook meals in the outdoor kitchen, and experience life the way locals do.
The secluded black sand beach nearby was absolutely stunning, and we even got to play Yoshi ball with Yoshi the dog and hang out with Ulu the cat — both total stars of the place.
If you’re looking for something real, grounding, and unforgettable, this is it. We absolutely loved every minute and would recommend it 100%.
O
Omar .
2 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
po'ai nai'a
A very special place and folks. We stayed for two nights and got to know the land and something of it's people. Non-judgmental and welcoming attitude, in a valley with the ocean, the streams, the tropics, and fruit. Memorable.
Alexander F.
10 months on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· September 2025
When shit happens it would be nice if you gave a refund.
L
Linda W.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent ·
po'ai nai'a
Being in such a sacred and beautiful place was such an honor. Mathias was the perfect host. He checked on us regularly and brought fresh fruit. He is a generous, free spirit and we enjoyed every moment in the valley.
M
Michelle M.
3 reviews
We had an unforgettable time at Waipi’o Valley at Jo’el’s campsite. Hiking down into the valley felt like we were going to a different time. Being greeted by a family of wild horses before camp was so lucky.
Jo’el was super welcoming, easy going, fun, very knowledgeable about the valley, its sacred traditions, and culture. We appreciated harvesting fruit for us, dipping in rivers, smelling flowers and his hospitality. While being creative and impromptu, he was also on point and adaptable to our specific needs, giving sound advice about hiking to Waimanu. Be prepared for a rugged, but enchanting experience.
We were all enamored and inspired with your vitality and character, Jo’el. Thank you for welcoming us into your world and reminding us that living simply and humbly is beautiful. The pull to Waipi’o will always be there bc of you. Malama pono.
A
Alfie D.
1 year on Hipcamp
I had an incredible stay with Jo'el at his camp in Waipio Valley. Jo'el has lived there for many years and is a true steward of the land. He's knowledgeable about the history of the Valley, the nourishment it provides and it's sacred history that he's proud to share with guest.
For campers be prepared- the camp is a little over a mile from where you will be able to park and you must carry everything you need for your stay in on your back.
Jo'el was the most thoughtful host- sharing food from the land, guiding me through the valley to waterfalls and his camp is built onto the side of the valley walls providing spectacular views and sunrises.
My only regret is that I wasn't able to stay longer!
Thank you Jo'el, hope to be back soon!
Josh L.
1 year on Hipcamp
This place is pure magic. It is peaceful, beautiful and full of delicious fruit. Jo'el is such a kind and welcoming host and his passion for the valley shows through everything his says and does, he really made us feel at home. The river, the beach, the valley and the trail, 2 nights was just not enough! One important detail is that even if you opt to have your car taken down the road there is still a 1 mile walk and river crossing to get to the camp itself. Totally worth it...just pack accordingly.
C
Cheryl R.
1 year on Hipcamp
Location
Honoka'a, Hawaii County, Hawaii, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
Hosted by Jo'el Mathias S.
Joined in April 2025Response rate: 20%Response time: Within 19 hours
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