To ensure that visitors have the opportunity to learn as much as possible about Waimea, several walking tours are offered. These tours are included in admission fees and are offered daily at 10 am, 11 am 1 pm and 2 pm. Walking tours include Native Plant, History, Wildlife and ‘Alae ‘ula Interpretation. Lei Making, Kapa Demonstration, Hula Lessons, Hawaiian Games, and Crafts, Music & Story Telling with kūpuna are cultural activities to enjoy.

Daily Guided Activities at Waimea Valley

Meet the Magnificent ‘Alae‘ula
Join us for an unusual chance to observe the ‘alae‘ula, an endangered endemic wetland bird, and discover their behaviors, habitat, and threats to their natural environment.

Native Plant Walk
Stroll through the Hawaiian Garden with one of our guides and discover lā`au Hawai`i. Gain insight to the vital link between plants and Hawaiian traditions.

History Walk
Listen to the legends and stories of Waimea while walking to a kauhale where you will learn more about the daily lives of Hawaiians in this sacred place.

Hawaiian Games
Journey back in time to experience the games of old Hawai`i. Are you ready for a challenge? Makaukau! Stop by the Hawaiian game site just above the upper meadow. Games include `ulu maika, haka moa, kōnane, and ihe.

Kāla`au Hula Lesson (Rhythm Sticks)
Anyone can easily learn this seated hula. Listen for the resonating sounds of the rhythm sticks and join in.

Lei Making
Learn how to make Hawaiian lei, a symbol of friendship, love, best wishes, welcome and farewell.

Kapa Demonstration
Discover the refined process for creating kapa, or bark cloth, a necessary material in the daily lives of early Hawaiians.

Weaving with Coconut Fronds
For thousands of years, Hawaiians have used the coconut palm as a source of food, fresh water, medicine, rope, and shelter. Join us and learn the basics of palm frond weaving and make your own woven angelfish or small box.

Crafts, Music, and Storytelling with Waimea’s Kupuna
Stop by the gazebo across from Kauhale and visit with Waimea’s Kūpuna, or Hawaiian elders. Enjoy crafts, music, and storytelling passed down from several generations.