Coastal Waterfalls, Hamakua Coast, Hilo, Hawaii 1970s

This authentic 1970s colour photograph, captured in 1972, reveals a breathtaking hidden vista along the Hamakua Coast just north of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. The archival image features a dramatic verdant cliffside where a slender waterfall, likely Namaue Hu Falls or a similar seasonal cascade, plunges directly into the churning white surf of the Pacific Ocean. The rugged coastline is characterized by dark volcanic rock and a narrow strip of black pebble beach, typical of the island’s young geological profile. Dense tropical vegetation, including ironwood and pandanus trees, blankets the steep slopes that rise toward the emerald pastures above. Thin utility lines are visible cutting across the frame, a reminder of the narrow, winding Mamalahoa Highway that traverses this scenic route. This region of Hawaii remains one of the most untouched and beautiful stretches of coastline in the archipelago and is still standing as a protected natural area. While some of the upper pastures have seen changes in agricultural use since the 1970s, the raw coastal beauty captured in this factual record remains largely unchanged. 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.