Beginning Jan. 30, intrepid visitors looking for an out-of-the-ordinary Oahu adventure chock full of Hawaiian history, legends and culture can enjoy a highly informative nighttime tour through the North Shore's Waimea Valley.
Led by Lopaka Kapanui, a prominent Hawaiian historian and master storyteller of Hawaiian folklore and legends, the "Whispering Walls of Waimea" night walks last about two hours and feature a wide range of stories and legends about Hawaiian high priests who once called the region home, along with details about the Valley's exceptional Pohaku, or stones with spiritual significance, and popular stories about children rumored to have played at Waimea.
"I hope the night walkers will gain an appreciation of the spiritual side of the Valley and learn to appreciate the peace and dignity the Valley offers," said Kapanui in a Jan. 7 statement announcing the tours. "I am honored to be the one selected to share these stories of Waimea and share my personal experiences."
One of Oahu's last partially intact ahupuaa, or a system of land use developed by ancient Hawaiians that extended from the mountains to the ocean, Waimea Valley offers both visitors and residents an authentic window into the culture, lifestyle and customs of the Hawaiian people through an extensive assortment of daily programs and activities.
The valley is also home to a 150-acre arboretum boasting 5,000 documented species of tropical trees, plants and flowers as well as an easily accessible 45-foot waterfall, or wahi, that spills into a roomy, 30-foot deep natural pool open to swimmers during the day.
For more information about Waimea Valley, including a schedule of Saturday evening dates for the "Whispering Walls of Waimea" tours ($50 for adults; $35 for ages 12 to 16), visit www.waimeavalley.net.