One of the most scenic waterfalls on the Big Island is also the easiest to reach
Near the town of Hilo, on the big island’s eastern shore, the Wailuku River takes an 80-foot plunge into a frothy pool shrouded in greenery. In morning light, mist rising from this pool refracts sunlight into shimmering spectrums of the rainbow. The Hawaiian people dubbed this light show, Waianuenue, which translates to Rainbow Falls.
This is not only one of Hawaii’s most popular waterfalls, it is also one of the easiest to reach. There’s no hiking or climbing involved, as Rainbow Falls is located just minutes from downtown Hilo within Wailuku River State Park, with a road leading right up to the overlook. After taking in the sights, you can continue a mile up the road to another landmark Peepee Falls, where a series of terraced pools known as the Boiling Pots bubble like a caldron over the fire. From resorts on the Kona area, it’s a two-hour drive to Hilo and the falls, which makes it an ideal day trip.
