Tucked away on the Wailuku River in Hilo, you can find the gem known as Rainbow Falls. The falls are known both for their distinct wishbone shape and for the interesting local lore surrounding the caves beneath the falls. This waterfall should make the top of your list of places to visit while on the east side of the Big Island.
Hawaiian mythology says that Hina, the mother of Maui, lives in the caves below the falls. The caves are also thought to be the burial site of King Kamehameha's father.
The size and shape of the falls are dependent on rainfall in the area. However, visiting the falls at certain times during the year can increase your chances of seeing the characteristic wishbone that Rainbow Falls is know for possessing. The best time of the year to visit is the spring or fall, when rainfall is consistent and moderate. If you are visiting during the rainy winter season, Rainbow Falls may be gushing with muddy water, leaving you unable to even see the cave below. But, if you visit in the summer, you may only see a small trickle with very little volume.
Visit early in the morning to increase your chances of seeing a rainbow in mist above the waterfall. This is also the best time to get great photos and avoid the tour bus crowd that will arrive later in the day.
How to get to Rainbow Falls: From Hilo, go up Waianuenue Avenue and veer right at the Saddle Road fork. Turn right on Rainbow Falls Drive. The parking area will be on your right.
After visiting Rainbow Falls, you can extend your waterfall tour by making the short drive to Pe'epe'e Falls and the Boiling Pots. Pe'epe'e Falls is located upstream of Rainbow Falls on the Wailuku River. The waterfall is not as easily accessible as Rainbow Falls, so the real reason to visit this area is to see the Boiling Pots.
The Boiling Pots are not actually boiling, but they often appear as though they are boiling. The "pots" are actually just areas of lava rock that churn water through a series of connecting caved-in underground lava tubes creating the appearance of boiling. Don't try to swim here!
How to get to Boiling Pots: From Rainbow Falls, take a left on to Rainbow Falls Drive, and turn right on Waianuenue Avenue. Continue on Waianuenue Avenue for approximately two miles past the hospital until you see the sign for Pe'epe'e Falls. The parking area will be on your right.
Comments