Rainbow Falls — Photo courtesy of Carolyn Reich

Located inland from Hilo Town on Big Island, Rainbow Falls cascades 80-feet into the pool below and makes rainbows along the way. Tumbling down along the Wailuku River within Wailuku River State Park, the attraction is easily visited for adults and children. The lovely waterfall makes its way into a pool roughly 100 feet in diameter, creates a great photo opportunity and provides peaceful moments to enjoy. A large cave hides underneath the falls, and legend says that this is the home of Hina, the mother of the god Maui.

Farther down the Wailuku River — Photo courtesy of Carolyn Reich

The viewing area offers a clear, direct view of the falls and pool.  More adventurous types can walk to the left, where a rock stairway leads to a hidden area, to gaze at the waterfall from above. This can be a very slippery spot, so be very careful. For another viewing option, which can be nice to escape the crowds that sometimes arrive with tour buses, head over to the large banyan tree that drops roots into the ground and creates a huge canopy with its wide branches.

Don't forget the camera when visiting Rainbow Falls, and for the photo enthusiasts, be sure to play around with the different lighting and angles.