Big Island Scenery

Beginning in Hilo on the windward side of the island, you will find Rainbow Falls. The entrance to this area is located on Waianuenue Avenue in Hilo. Rainbow Falls gets its name from the rainbows that are created from the sun shining through the falling water. Upstream from the falls, you will find an area called "Boiling Pots" where the water flows rapidly onward toward the falls. Easy access and lots of parking makes this waterfall one of the best scenic sites on the island.

Also located in the town of Hilo not far from the Hilo Airport is Liliuokalani Gardens. Names for Hawaii's last reigning monarch, this elaborate, authentic Japanese garden is over 30 acres. Fishing, walking and other activities are allowed there.

Along the south shore of the island, you will find the famous black sand beach of Punaluu. This beach is believed to be the landing site of the first Hawaiians who arrived from the Marquesas many years ago. Punaluu Black Sand beach is located in an area called South Point. This area is also known as the southernmost point in the United States.

Accessible only by foot or four-wheel-drive vehicles, Waipio Valley was once home of several hundred Hawaiians. Taro is now grown profusely here along with other produce that can be found in local markets. The waterfalls located at the very rear of the valley are called Hiilawe.

Just a short scenic drive along the coast of route 220 and through sugar cane fields, you will find the lush tropical park known as Akaka Falls at Honomu. Access to the falls, is via a short paved trail through a natural forest full of native Hawaiian flora and fauna. The falls is the most spectacular in the state, plunging more than 420 feet over a volcanic cliff.

These scenic areas are free to the public and are typically open from sunrise to sunset. Visits to these places during periods of heavy rain or high surf require extra caution, but also provide an opportunity to see nature at it's grandest

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