Originally published March 25, 2012
You gotta love a place where you don't have to pay for each and every attraction. In some states, you have to pay an admission fee to enjoy a natural attraction. That'snot always the case in Hawaii. In fact, most of the state's natural beauty is free to visit.
A perfect example is Rainbow Falls in Hilo. This is one of the best gems on The Big Island. The scene is a pure tropical paradise. At the top of the falls, a large piece of the rock cliff separate the stream of water into two sections that flow over the top. The two streams rejoin eachother midway down, giving the falls its wishbone shape.
A perfect example is Rainbow Falls in Hilo. This is one of the best gems on The Big Island. The scene is a pure tropical paradise. At the top of the falls, a large piece of the rock cliff separate the stream of water into two sections that flow over the top. The two streams rejoin eachother midway down, giving the falls its wishbone shape.
 |
| Rainbow Falls can give you postcard-quality photo opportunities |
This place is surrounded by trees and lush tropical landscape. You can follow a path that leads to the top of the falls for a view of the upper section and the water flow. Some daring people will make their way along the rocks to the edge of the falls for a view looking down. I recommend enjoying the sights from the public side of the railing.
 |
| Rocks briefly "split" the water at the top of the falls |
When the sun is cooperating, you can see a rainbow forming from the spray that the waterfall generates. This is usually in the morning, and only when the sun is behind you as you look towards the falls. As you look beyond the water, you will see a dark cave. It is said that this is the cave where King Kamehameha burried the bones of his father.
 |
| Notice the cave behind the water fall |
 |
| Use extreme caution if you venture to the top |
The state park has paved parking and restrooms. You will sometimes see local vendors in the area selling various items. As with any public park in Hawaii, it is always strongly recommended that you lock your vehicle and hide (or take) your valuables with you. Although I must say that after visiting these islands many times, and driving to all kinds of beaches, parks, etc., I have never had a problem with car break-ins, nor have I heard or seen anything too suspicious.
 |
| Don't forget to have your photo taken with Rainbow Falls |
Whatever you do, be sure to bring your camera to the viewing areas. This is quite possibly the best-photographed waterfall on the island. You will take better pictures here than at Akaka Falls. But you will probably enjoy the Akaka experience more.
No comments:
Post a Comment