Eric R.
Yelp
Hina of Hilo is best known as the mother of Hawaiian hero, Māui... her name Hina relates to a powerful female force, a goddess or queen. This is my story...
A weekend on the Eastside of Hawai'i Island must include waterfalls! Because in our world it's okay to chase waterfalls! After coffee and a light breakfast, my bestie and I decided to first take the short drive from Hilo town to see our first, the picturesque, Rainbow Falls! The rain, sans the tourists lol, made it special!
At Waiānuenue aka Rainbow Falls, the mighty Wailuku River crashes into a large fresh water pool below. Known in the Hawaiian language as Waiānuenue, it translates to "rainbow water", the falls flows over a natural lava cave, the mythological home to Hina, an ancient Hawaiian goddess. The Battle of Wailuku River was also fought on these grounds. Offerings can be found until this day. No entree fee, just bring Aloha!
In the end, I've been here before, perhaps even during the Battle of Wailuku River, but I know I'll return again and again. Easy access from town and the lush greens (tho much is non-native) gives an instant calm to one's soul. As wet as Hilo was during a storm, in my eyes it made it that much more magical, especially with my waterfalls chaser bestie... Kyra K.! It's okay to dream!
Rainbow Falls derives its name from the fact that, on sunny mornings, rainbows can be seen in the mist thrown up by the waterfall. Yet, even on this rainy visit we could still see a few... a forever moment in time.