Akaka Falls State Park, Hawaii 1972

This authentic 1970s colour photograph, captured in 1972, provides a stunning view of Akaka Falls within Akaka Falls State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. The archival image captures the powerful 442-foot waterfall as it plunges from a volcanic cliff into a lush, steam-filled gorge below. In the foreground, tourists in period-correct early seventies attire—including a man in a yellow polo shirt taking a photograph and a woman in a pink top—lean against the green metal safety railing of the paved overlook. Research into this location reveals that the falls are part of a 0.4-mile loop trail that also features the smaller Kahuna Falls nearby. The surrounding rainforest is a dense tapestry of tropical flora, featuring giant tree ferns, bamboo groves, and cascading vines. Akaka Falls State Park remains one of the most visited natural landmarks in Hawaii and is still standing today as a protected state treasury. While the viewing platforms and railings have been upgraded for safety and the trail system has been expanded since 1972, the awe-inspiring scale of the falls remains unchanged. This factual record preserves the mid-century experience of exploring Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes and the timeless beauty of the Hamakua Coast. All our images are available as royalty-free instant downloads for use in books, media, and creative projects – or make your own prints for home, work, or as a truly unique gift.