Next day, I decided to drive through the Northern part of the Island and also visit the popular waterfalls that were located on the eastern side of the island. I got a chance to check out the beaches, local markets, and grab some food along the way. Weather was a lot better than the previous day, so I took the advantage to visit the Magic Sand Beach located near Kona. 

Magic Sand Beach is known for their white sand and popular among locals for surfing and just relaxing. When I arrived at 7am,  it was already populated with surfers trying to catch waves. The scene looks like from a movie or a postcard. It is what I imagine Hawaiian beaches to look like. 

Magic Sand Beach in the morning

After a relaxing morning at the beach, I had to grab some Acai bowls nearby. I got the standard acai bowl which was topped with strawberries, banana, blueberries, and honey. It was a lot sweeter than I expected, but was filling for the long drive. I also stopped by the local super market to grab some poke bowls too. 

The first stop was to Rainbow Falls. A popular tourist place to see an iconic waterfall that also shines a rainbow at the bottom. However, the weather was not good enough to shine the rainbow. I love this place because you can actually clim to the top of the waterfall and take photos by going to the creeks on the backside of the falls. CAUTION: Do not try jumping off the fall, and be careful climbing up the rocks because it is very slippery. But the view form on top is spectacular and awesome for taking photos.

Creak area to the waterfall

Where the falls begin
Posing above Rainbow Falls

Off to the next waterfall. Akaka Falls State Park is located 45 minutes north of Hilo. Akaka Falls stands 135m tall and surrounded by the lushes green mountains. It was a short walk from the entrance and cost $1 per person if you park outside of the parking lot, which I advise. It was magnificent to see, but not as fun as Rainbow Fall. 

Last but not least, we headed to a more hidden tourist area known as Waipio Valley. Another hour away from Akaka Falls State Park, Waipio Valley has a gorgeous outpost that looks down at the Valley and cliffside of the north side. You can head down the steep path to the black sand beach and see a waterfall at a distance. Due to the rain, I stayed at the top to try and get the best photo I can of the valley. TIP: Don’t forget to stop by Tex Drive In to grab one giant malasadas for less than $2. A cream filled donut that will help with the long drive.

Waipio Valley