Lush forest, fragrant blooming ginger, meandering backroads with moss-covered bridges, secret swim holes….and, of course, WATERFALLS! From Hilo north along the Hamakua Coast is the Big Island’s unofficial waterfall corridor, with countless streams and rivers flowing through dramatic gorges and plunge pools, originating high on the slopes of Mauna Kea volcano. Use this post as a guide to explore some of Hilo’s most stunning waterfalls.
A Note On Safety
Hilo and Hamakua’s rivers and streams are prone to flash flooding when it rains and can be dangerous. Do not go swimming or hiking along a river when it’s flooded or surging with a strong current. Be aware conditions can change quickly if it starts to rain upriver. Due to the volcanic history of this area, the geology of the river bed is not solid. There are holes and crevices in the rock beneath the water.
Exercise caution and only swim in calm river conditions. If in doubt, talk to a local. If the conditions are safe, you will likely encounter locals and visitors swimming at some of these spots on a sunny day. We do not advise climbing up or jumping from waterfalls or bridges. Rocks can be hidden beneath the surface of the water. Be smart and be safe. Ok…now about those waterfalls!
Hilo Area
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls
Best for: photo opt, sightseeing, swimming up river when calm
Named for the stunning rainbows that can be spotted in the fall’s mist on a lucky day, iconic Rainbow Falls is Hilo’s most famous waterfall. Hawaiian Legend is that Rainbow Falls was the site of a battle between the demigod Maui and a giant Mo’o (lizard) who was harassing Maui’s mother, the goddess Hina, who lived in the cave beneath the falls. Read the full story here.
To the left of the main falls lookout, you’ll find a staircase that takes you to a second lookout point above the falls. There is also a beautiful giant banyan tree grove here. On sunny days when the river is calm, you can often spot people swimming in the river above the falls and sunbathing on the rocks. There are many small pools, as well as a second smaller waterfall with a deep plunge pool. Exercise caution and enter the water at your own risk as the river is prone to flash flooding when it rains.
Boiling Pots
Boiling Pots
Best for: photo opt, sightseeing
Part of Wailuku River State Park, Boiling Pots is just 1.6 miles up the road from Rainbow Falls driving on Wainuenue Avenue. Wainuenue is the Hawaiian word for rainbow. The turn off for Boiling Pots is on Pe’epe’e Falls Road. There is an overlook point to view the falls. This is a nice spot for hanging out and having a picnic with a picnic table and grassy area.
The story of Boiling Pots is connected to the legend of Rainbow Falls. After Maui’s initial attack, the giant Mo’o (lizard) escaped upriver and hid deep in the pools. Maui called on the goddess Pele for help, who sent a flow of molten lava into the river, causing the pools to boil and steam, killing the Mo’o. To this day, the “pots” continue to boil, especially after a heavy rain when the river is flooded.
LK Falls
Best for: photo opt, sightseeing
Farther up Wainuenue Avenue past Boiling Pots is LK falls. The large falls can be viewed from a bridge and makes for a cool photo opt.
North of Hilo
6 Tons
Best for: swimming, scenic drive
Another secret spot, this cool little waterfall pool and swimming hole is on the scenic Old Mamalahoa Hwy. This twisting one lane road is like a window back in time. You’ll spot 6 Tons as you cross the little wooden bridge over Kawainui Stream. Drive slowly and with care on this narrow back road. Remember, as with the previous waterfalls highlighted in this post, you are traveling through a community. Be respectful of their peace and quiet and leave no trace.
If you want a smoothie or refreshing treat, stop off at What’s Shakin right down the road from 6 Tons. This is a local family run smoothie stand with a casual laid back vibe. Also on the menu are vegetarian friendly wraps, salads, and plenty of fresh island fruit.
Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls
Best for: sightseeing, scenic nature walk
Part of a state park, Akaka Falls is the tallest waterfall on the Big Island that is accessible to the public, plunging 442 feet into a gorge below. A 0.4 mile loop trail through lush jungle takes you to a lookout point for Akaka Falls and smaller Kahuna Falls. There is a $5 fee per vehicle to enter the park, or $1 for pedestrians.
Driving to Akaka Falls, you will pass through the tiny town of Honomu, with a few little shops. Stop off at Shark’s Coffee for a bite or a pick me up. There is a cool antique shop with dozens of old glass bottles and other interesting artifacts next door.
Umauma Falls.
Umauma Falls
Best for: ziplining, swimming, paid entrance only
The only triple tier waterfall on the island, Umauma Falls is a unique sight. The falls in located on private property and can only be accessed via The Umauma Experience. For $12 you can take a walking tour of the property and view the falls from a lookout. For $50 you can book a private 2 hour waterfall swim in the falls. Their 9-line zipline tour, which takes you over the falls for a major adrenaline rush, starts at $191 per person. They offer a discount to Hawaii residents with an ID for the zipline tour. The property is worth checking out with incredible panoramic ocean views, set on working ranch land on the slopes of Mauna Kea.
Zipling over Umauma Falls at The Umauma Experience.
Are you ready to go waterfall hunting? Don’t forget to tag us @myhawaiihostel in your adventures for a chance to be featured on our Instagram!