Just before downtown Hilo flows the Wailuku river. It gently cascades over a total drop of 200 feet, rushed forward by three dramatic falls. Wai-anuenue, or Rainbow falls, drop an enchanting and spectacular 80 feet into a deep, large pool. With its enormous lava boulders and hollow deep caves, it invokes visions of times before humans ever set foot on Hawaiian ground. When the torrent of water hits the river below, the reflecting mists throw myriads of rainbows in the air.
Morning light creates magic.
Underneath the pool, so it is said, lives Hina, the mother of Maui. Further upstream, at Pe'epe'e Falls State Park, water and fire continue their never-ceasing ribaldry. The park, despite its treasures, lies mostly deserted. A lonely golfer hits a practice ball. A few children play on the grass.