Points of Interest
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Rainbow Falls
Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
What you will visit:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, Volcanoes National Park is a fascinating place sacred to the ancients and home to the goddess Pele. The park encompasses the summits of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes. Certified park staff introduce guests to the prehistoric-looking landscapes, which include dramatic steam vents, ancient Thurston Lava Tube, and otherworldly vistas from the Halema'uma'u Crater overlook. Hawaiian legend tells that it is bad luck to remove a piece of lava, so don't be tempted; there are many a story about people mailing their souvenirs back to Hawaii each year!
Rainbow Falls
Follow the Wailuku River to Rainbow Falls, an iconic waterfall featuring an 80-foot-tall cascade surrounded by tropical flora. Look for the rainbow effect produced by the spray that gives the waterfall its name.
What you will see along the way:
Beauty abounds as you drive through Hilo from one natural attraction to another. From glistening Onomea Bay to the azure blue Pacific Ocean, the interior landscapes are a potpourri of rainforest vegetation, fertile valleys, patchwork plantations and colorful floral blooms. Take in the spectacular views of Kilauea Caldera from a portion of the Crater Rim Drive and enjoy the sights of Hilo on your return drive.
Photo Opportunity:
You'll want to capture the unique Thurston Lava Tube, once filled with red-hot molten lava and now surrounded by a prehistoric-looking tree-fern forest.