Hilo, the largest city in Hawaii, is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes some of the best waterfalls in Hilo and indeed, the entire Hawaiian Islands. These mesmerizing cascades attract visitors from around the world, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Hilo is situated on the lush eastern coast of the Big Island. Hilo is known for its lush valleys and copious amounts of rainfall, which result in a plethora of magnificent waterfalls that create breathtaking views and provide peaceful havens inside the embrace of nature.
Hilo’s waterfalls are captivating for nature enthusiasts, thrill seekers, and photographers alike. They feature striking waterfalls that plunge into dazzling pools and undiscovered treasures nestled inside lush jungles.
Hilo’s waterfalls offer enduring moments of peace and wonder, whether you wish to enjoy the excitement of navigating difficult paths or to take in these marvels from picturesque vantage points simply.
Come along with us as we set out to explore the best waterfalls in hilo, each of which has a unique narrative to tell about the island’s rich volcanic past, enduring natural beauty, and ancient volcanic origins.
Come along as we explore the undiscovered gems and well-known sites that make Hilo a sanctuary for travelers seeking peace amid the beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes and a home for waterfall enthusiasts.
List Of 10 Best Waterfalls in Hilo
Rainbow Falls
Situated in close proximity to Hilo’s centre, Rainbow Falls is a breathtaking natural marvel that perfectly captures the lush splendor of Hawaii’s Big Island.
Raising 80 feet over a lava rock cliff and plunging into a spacious pool below, Rainbow Falls produces a captivating scene of tumbling water surrounded by lush tropical foliage.
The rainbows that frequently appear in the hazy spray of the waterfall, particularly on bright mornings, give rise to the waterfall’s name and contribute to its attraction.
In addition to being a magnificent sight, Rainbow Falls has cultural significance in Hawaiian mythology. It is surrounded by fern-covered cliffs and old trees. The Hawaiian goddess Hina is said to have resided here in folklore, lending the waterfall additional spiritual significance.
Rainbow Falls, easily reached after a short climb from a picturesque vantage point, is a well-liked spot for tourists looking to take in Hawaii’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Rainbow Falls provides a tranquil haven in the centre of Hilo’s captivating scenery; whether you choose to take in its splendor from a distance or get up close to experience the cool mist on your skin.
Akaka Falls
One of the most magnificent examples of Hawaii’s natural splendor is Akaka Falls, which is located on the Big Island to the north of Hilo. Akaka Falls, which plunges a staggering 442 feet into a verdant ravine encircled by lush jungle, enthrals tourists with its breathtaking beauty and sheer size.
A brief, well-kept walk through Akaka Falls State Park leads to the falls, providing views of the lush greenery and unusual plants along the way.
Akaka Falls, one of Hawaii’s most well-known waterfalls, attracts a large number of tourists every year who come to experience its breathtaking beauty.
Viewing platforms are positioned strategically along the trail to provide tourists with a mesmerizing exhibition of nature’s strength and beauty as they watch the beautiful waterfall drop into a pool below.
Akaka Falls is a must-visit location for adventurers and environment enthusiasts alike since it serves as a reminder of the island’s volcanic beginnings and the eternal forces that continue to sculpt its landscapes.
Pe’epe’e Falls
Situated close to Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island, Pe’epe’e Falls is a well-kept secret that is loved by both residents and tourists. Pe’epe’e Falls, nestled in a verdant rainforest, provides a tranquil haven from the bustle of the metropolis.
The waterfall creates a captivating show of misting water and cascading water as it softly cascades over volcanic rocks
Pe’epe’e Falls, which may be reached after a little stroll from Rainbow Falls nearby, offers a chance to fully appreciate the splendour of Hawaii’s natural surroundings. Views of native plants, rich tropical vegetation, and possibly even sights of vibrant bird species can be found along the walk.
When arriving at Pe’epe’e Falls, guests find themselves in a peaceful haven where they may unwind and revitalise to the calming sounds of the cascading water.
In the centre of Hilo’s enchanted surroundings, Pe’epe’e Falls offers a tranquil haven for anyone seeking adventure, seclusion, or just a connection with nature.
Umauma Falls
Umauma Falls, on the Hamakua Coast near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its beauty and grandeur. Umauma Falls, which is made up of several waterfalls, drops softly down volcanic cliffs that are encircled by dense tropical flora.
Umauma Falls’ accessibility and variety of visiting activities are two of its unique attractions. Apart from taking in the cascade from assigned vantage points, tourists can also partake in thrilling zip line experiences that offer breathtaking aerial views of the falls.
Furthermore, guided tours of the nearby botanical gardens provide information on the region’s varied flora and animals.
Explore the botanical gardens, take a zip line above the canopy, or just wonder at the gushing waters—Umauma Falls offers both nature lovers and thrill-seekers an experience they won’t soon forget.
It is proof of the island’s pristine natural beauty and the wonders that lie ahead for those who explore its verdant surroundings.
Boiling Pots
Situated in the Wailuku River State Park, upstream of Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots is a mesmerizing natural wonder close to Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island. Boiling Pots, as opposed to conventional waterfalls, is a sequence of organic rock formations and pools sculpted by the Wailuku River’s raging waters.
The water’s erratic swirling motion as it spills over and around the rocks, producing a captivating show reminiscent of boiling water, is where the term “Boiling Pots” comes from. Visitors who want to experience the strength and beauty of nature often go to these distinctive geological formations and bubbling pools.
Hiking routes go to the region, which is accessible within the state park. Here, tourists can explore and take in the fascinating formations left behind by millennia of water erosion.
Even though swimming is not advised due to the erratic currents, tourists can still take in the breathtaking scenery and the unadulterated power of the roaring river.
Boiling Pots provides a calm haven in the arms of nature where guests may take in all the sights and sounds of this amazing natural event. It serves as a reminder of the volcanic beginnings of the island and the enduring forces that continue to sculpt its landscapes.
Onomea Falls
Onomea Falls is a charming waterfall on Hawaii’s Big Island that may be seen close to Hilo along the lovely Hamakua Coast. A hidden jewel that provides a tranquil escape into the embrace of nature, Onomea Falls is tucked away amid the verdant tropical surrounds.
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, a well-known botanical garden that features a wide assortment of tropical plants from all over the world, is usually the gateway to Onomea Falls.
Take a leisurely stroll along well-kept paths that wind through lush rainforest and cross picturesque bridges for visitors to the garden.
Throughout the garden, guests can catch views of Onomea Falls, which drops softly from the lush cliffs into a peaceful pool below. The waterfall and the verdant surroundings combine to produce a beautiful landscape that is ideal for contemplation and photography.
The breathtaking scenery of Hawaii’s landscapes and the significance of conservation efforts to maintain its natural treasures are brought to light by Onomea Falls.
For those looking to get in touch with nature and take in the jaw-dropping views of the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast, it provides a peaceful haven.
Kahuna Falls
Kahuna Falls is a magnificent waterfall found in Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, near Hilo. Although Kahuna Falls is not as well-known as its neighbour Akaka Falls, it nonetheless has its own distinct beauty and charm.
Explore the park’s well-kept pathways, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Kahuna Falls, which tumbles down a lush valley below a verdant cliff wall. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage and cliffs covered in ferns, the waterfall plunges about 100 feet, making for a tranquil and attractive backdrop.
Usually reached after a quick walk through the park, Kahuna Falls provides visitors with the chance to take in the island’s abundant natural beauty and discover more about its distinctive flora and wildlife.
Visitors to Kahuna Falls are guaranteed to be enthralled by its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, whether they choose to go closer to feel the cool mist on their skin or simply enjoy the cascade from one of the park’s picturesque viewpoints.
Hanawi Falls
Hanawi Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located along the picturesque Hana Highway on the eastern side of Maui, Hawaii. Due to its accessibility and breathtaking beauty, even though it is not located in Hilo, it is frequently visited as part of a picturesque drive from Hilo to Hana.
Hanawi Falls, which cascades down lush cliffs amid luscious jungle, provides visitors travelling the Hana Highway with a peaceful and attractive view.
The waterfall’s tumbling waters can be seen briefly but breathtakingly from the roadside, where it is frequently visited.
The Hana Highway is dotted with numerous natural treasures, like Hanawi Falls, which add to the attraction of this well-known road trip route.
Hanawi Falls is a fascinating stop on the tour of Maui’s captivating landscapes, even though it may not be as well-known as some of the island’s other waterfalls due to its serene atmosphere and lush surrounds.
Kulaniapia Falls
A stunning waterfall close to the town of Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island is called Kulaniapia Falls. Amid the island’s verdant settings, Kulaniapia Falls presents a breathtaking display of natural beauty as it plunges around 120 feet into a serene pool below.
In contrast to numerous other waterfalls on the Big Island, Kulaniapia Falls is located on privately owned land that also houses a posh bed and breakfast. Through the property’s guided tours, visitors can get up close and personal with the waterfall, making for an immersive and one-of-a-kind experience.
Visitors to Kulaniapia Falls can enjoy hiking and zip-lining among other outdoor activities, all while taking in the stunning landscape of the surrounding rainforest, in addition to marvelling at the magnificent cascade.
On the Big Island, Kulaniapia Falls is a hidden gem that provides guests with a tranquil haven and an opportunity to commune with nature in a genuinely enchanting environment.
Pools of ‘Ohe’o
The Seven Sacred Pools, also called the Pools of ‘Ohe’o, are a sequence of tumbling pools and waterfalls found in Hawaii’s Haleakalā National Park on the island of Maui. They are a major natural attraction in Hawaii, even though they are on Maui rather than Hilo.
Tucked away on the picturesque Road to Hana, the Pools of ‘Ohe’o are a well-liked stop for those taking in the island’s verdant eastern shoreline.
The pools provide cool swimming and cooling chances amidst the tropical scenery, since they are nourished by streams that originate from the nearby rainforest.
Surrounded by rich greenery, steep cliffs, and bright flora, the Seven Sacred Pools offer a magnificent location ideal for exploration and leisure.
Hiking along the Pipiwai Trail, which leads to the pools and provides stunning views of the coastline, waterfalls, and bamboo forests, is an option for visitors.
Although swimming in the pools can be a delightful experience, patrons should use caution, particularly after heavy rains when the water can quickly rise. Even though the place is called “Seven Sacred Pools,” the precise number of pools varies based on the water’s flow and other factors.
Conclusion
To sum up, the above mentioned best waterfalls in Hilo is home to several magnificent waterfalls that highlight the island’s natural splendor and rich cultural legacy.
Every cascade, from the well-known Rainbow Falls to the magnificent Akaka Falls, provides guests with an unforgettable and unforgettable experience.
Amidst lush rainforests and dramatic terrain, Hilo’s waterfalls offer chances for adventure, relaxation, and spiritual connection.
One can enjoy the tranquil beauty of Pe’epe’e Falls or discover hidden jewels like Hanawi Falls. Any trip to Hilo must include exploring these enchanted waterfalls, which provide lifelong memories and amazing experiences.