Inside Waipa’s Ahupua’a with Waipa Foundation
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate walking on uneven terrain.
Overview
Step into Kaua'i’s Waipā Valley for a 3.5-hour journey tracing ancient Hawaiian land stewardship. Learn about sustainable food systems, participate in hands-on planting, and savor a lunch rooted in community-grown flavors.
THURSDAYS | Introduction to the Ahupua’a, it’s Food Systems and Waterways
Ages 8+ • 3.5 Hours
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 3.5-hour journey through the historic ahupua'a of Waipā, exploring its diverse ecosystems from mountains to sea. Engage in hands-on activities like planting and harvesting, savor local flavors during lunch, and discover the Hawaiian values that have transformed this vibrant community. Experience nature's abundance, rain or shine!
What is an Ahupua'a?
The ahupua'a system was a land management approach used by our ancestors to create abundance and sustainable communities. An ahupua'a is one of the smallest land divisions extending from the mountains to the sea.
Duration
3.5 Hours
About
Journey through time into the history and significance of the ahupua'a of Waipā, its food systems and waterways. Visit our gardens, lo’i kalo, orchards, stream, and fishpond to learn about the various ecosystems within the ahupua’a. Learn the Hawaiian values that guide Waipāʻs work, which over the course of 30 years have transformed the valley and surrounding community.
What to expect
Walk and ride to various learning sites within the ahupua’a, from the coastline to the stream and farmlands. Partake in a sampling related to the topic of the day, and then end with a lunch incorporating ingredients sourced from Waipā. Get the chance to contribute to our communityʻs food sustainability by helping with some light planting or harvesting.
Gloves and tools will be provided to those who are participating in planting and harvesting. Part of the tour involves walking on uneven and sometimes wet ground so closed-toed and preferably waterproof shoes are best. Hanalei is well known for its rain, which brings abundance to the land. We will be riding in open air vehicles and may get a little wet at times. Be prepared to tour Waipā in rain or shine (big umbrellas will be provided).
What to bring
- You must wear footwear that you are okay with getting dirty. Slippers are okay during the dry weather season. However during rainy seasons, it does get wet and muddy so closed-toed and preferably waterproof shoes are recommended.
- Rain jacket
- Bug repellent
- Sun protection - hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, etc.
- Refillable water bottle
- If you plan on bringing cameras, cell phones or any electronic device make sure to bring some type of waterproof protection in case of rain
For any questions please email tours@waipafoundation.org
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear
The trail includes wet, uneven ground; closed-toed, waterproof shoes are best, especially during the rainy season.
Bring sun and rain protection
Hanalei weather is variable—pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a rain jacket to stay comfortable rain or shine.
Prepare for hands-on activities
You’ll have the chance to plant and harvest—dress in clothes you can get dirty and gloves will be provided.
Stay hydrated and protect electronics
Bring a refillable water bottle and waterproof cases for cameras or phones in this moist environment.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian coots (moorhen)
- Endemic native honeycreepers
History
The ahupua'a system historically divided land from mountain to sea to sustainably support communities with shared resources.
Conservation
Waipa Foundation’s work revives native ecosystems while promoting food sovereignty, demonstrating a model of cultural and environmental resilience.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hanalei
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking shoes
Protect your feet when navigating wet ground and muddy trails.
winter|spring|fall specific
Rain jacket
Keep dry during frequent island showers.
winter|spring|fall specific
Sun hat and reef-safe sunscreen
Shield yourself from strong tropical sun while respecting the environment.
summer|null specific
Refillable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the 3.5-hour tour.