The Hamakua Coast, stretching north from Hilo along Highway 19, is one of the most scenic drives in all of Hawaii. This lush, tropical coastline is home to numerous spectacular waterfalls, many of which are easy to visit from Island Goodes. Here's your guide to the best waterfalls in the area.
Rainbow Falls (Waianuenue)
Distance from Island Goodes: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (paved viewpoint)
Rainbow Falls is the most accessible waterfall near Hilo and a must-see attraction. The 80-foot waterfall plunges into a large pool surrounded by wild ginger and tropical foliage. On sunny mornings, rainbows often form in the mist—hence the name.
Best time to visit: Early morning (8-10 AM) when sunlight creates rainbows in the spray.
Akaka Falls
Distance from Island Goodes: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (0.4-mile loop trail)
Akaka Falls is arguably the most spectacular waterfall on the Big Island. At 442 feet, this towering cascade drops into a gorge surrounded by lush rainforest. The short loop trail also passes Kahuna Falls (100 feet) and features beautiful tropical plants.
Entry fee: $5 per vehicle (or free with Hawaii State Parks pass)
Pe'epe'e Falls & Boiling Pots
Distance from Island Goodes: 12 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (viewpoint)
Just upstream from Rainbow Falls, Pe'epe'e Falls flows into a series of natural pools known as the Boiling Pots. During heavy rain, the rushing water makes the pools appear to "boil." The viewpoint offers stunning views of both the falls and the churning pools below.
Note: Swimming is prohibited due to dangerous currents.
Umauma Falls
Distance from Island Goodes: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate (garden walk)
Located at the Umauma Falls Experience, this three-tiered waterfall is picture-perfect. The privately-owned gardens offer multiple viewing platforms and additional activities like ziplining over the falls. It's worth the admission fee for photographers.
Hi'ilawe Falls
Distance from Island Goodes: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy (Waipi'o Valley Lookout viewpoint)
At 1,450 feet, Hi'ilawe Falls is one of Hawaii's tallest waterfalls. Viewed from the Waipi'o Valley Lookout, this thin ribbon of white plunges down sheer cliff walls into the sacred valley below. The lookout itself offers breathtaking views of the entire valley.
Waterfall Driving Itinerary
Here's a suggested half-day itinerary to see multiple waterfalls:
- 8:00 AM - Start at Rainbow Falls for morning rainbows
- 8:45 AM - Quick stop at Pe'epe'e Falls & Boiling Pots
- 9:30 AM - Drive north to Akaka Falls
- 11:00 AM - Continue to Waipi'o Valley Lookout
- 12:30 PM - Lunch in Honoka'a town
- 2:00 PM - Return to Island Goodes for pool time
Tips for Waterfall Hunting
- Bring rain gear: This is the wet side of the island
- Wear sturdy shoes: Trails can be muddy and slippery
- Go early: Better light and smaller crowds
- After rain: Waterfalls are most impressive after rainfall
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes can be present in forested areas
Stay at Island Goodes
Our location on the Hamakua Coast puts you perfectly positioned for waterfall adventures. Head out early, explore the falls, then return for a relaxing afternoon by our pool.
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