Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) is a majestic waterfall located in Hilo, Hawaii, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the Big Island. The waterfall is known for its beautiful colors and incredible beauty, which attracts tourists worldwide.
In this travel guide, let’s explore the importance and significance of Rainbow Falls and provide you with everything you need to know before visiting. We’ll tell you how to get there, what to do, and when to go to this bucket-list waterfall!
Rainbow Falls tips & advice
- Highlights: A quick way to see a waterfall near Hilo
- Cost: No entry charge (+ free parking)
- Accessibility: Very accessible (within walking distance of parking lot)
- When to go: Come early morning for best photographs (+ see rainbow effect)
- Address: 967 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, Hawaii
Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) in Hilo
Importance to the locals
Rainbow Falls is a sacred place to the local Hawaiian population and has significant cultural meaning. The waterfall is believed to be the dwelling place of Hina, a powerful goddess in Hawaiian mythology, and the surrounding area was once a place of worship.
Many locals still visit the site to pray, pay respects, and connect with their heritage. Beyond its cultural significance, Rainbow Falls also provides an essential source of freshwater to the surrounding community.
Accessibility for travelers
Thankfully, Rainbow Falls is also easily accessible and a popular attraction for visitors to Hilo. Located just a short drive from downtown, parking at the park itself is free. From there, a paved path takes visitors to a viewing area that overlooks the waterfall and the pool below. It’s important to note that the park can get crowded during peak hours, so getting there early is recommended.
Impressive water flow
Rainbow Falls, fed by the Wailuku River, is one of Hilo’s most impressive waterfalls. The water cascades 80 feet down a cliff, creating a striking mist that swirls dramatically around the falls. The water flow is at its highest during the rainy season, but this waterfall Hilo is worth visiting year-round.
Adventure opportunities
For those who want to explore the area further, several hiking trails are nearby, including the Rainbow Falls trail and the Boiling Pots. These trails lead visitors through lush jungles and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. However, hikers should exercise caution during the rainy season as flash floods occur.
Spectacular rainbows
Of course, visiting Rainbow Falls would only be complete with seeing its namesake rainbow. The best time to see a rainbow over the falls is in the morning when the sun hits the falling mist at just the right angle. In the morning, the sun will be at your back. You can get great photographs at the upper and lower fall lookouts. Seeing a rainbow form over the waterfall is a magical experience that will leave visitors in awe.
Are you planning a last minute trip to visit Rainbow Falls?
If you’re planning a last-minute trip to Rainbow Falls in Hilo, book your trip immediately. Here’s some accommodation and food recommendations.
Best accommodations near Rainbow Falls:
- The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls: 100 Kulaniapia Dr, Hilo, HI 96720
Best food near Rainbow Falls:
- Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine: 332 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720
History and culture of Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) in Hilo
Significance of rainbow falls to Hawaiians
The Hilo waterfall is named for the beautiful rainbows often seen over the falls on sunny days. The best time to see a rainbow at Rainbow Falls, Big Island, is in the morning when the sun shines directly on the waterfall. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to see a double rainbow.
Legends and myths surrounding Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, Hilo, Hawaii, is a place of great Importance to the Hawaiian people. According to the legend, it’s the home of Hina, a Hawaiian goddess. She was the wife of Maui, the god who created the Hawaiian Islands and was known for her stunning beauty and gentle heart. The falls drop 82 feet over a lava cave said to be home to Hina, the Hawaiian goddess of the moon.
One day, while Hina was bathing in a pool near the Hilo falls, her reflection attracted the attention of a giant eel living in the river. The eel fell in love and wrapped itself around Hina, dragging her down to its lair. Maui heard Hina’s screams and rushed to rescue her. Maui defeated the eel in a legendary battle and returned Hina to her beloved Rainbow pool.
Cultural practices with Rainbow Falls
Apart from the myth, Rainbow Falls also has a significant cultural value. The Hilo waterfall is named Waiānuenue, meaning “rainbow-colored water,” due to the incredible Rainbow over the falls on sunny mornings.
The Hawaiians believed that the Rainbow was the pathway to heaven through which the souls of their loved ones passed upon death. This phenomenon was a sign of hope and reassurance, especially during grief.
Location and access to Rainbow Falls
Geographic location
Rainbow Falls is found on the Wailuku River, just a few miles north of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai’i. The Big Island waterfall is easily accessible by car or foot, and there is a parking area near the entrance to the park. To get to the falls, you’ll need to take the Rainbow Falls Trail, a short hike providing stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. Lave rocks make up the stairs and there’s a metal railing, making this an easy hike for anyone.
How to get to Rainbow Falls
The trailhead for Rainbow Falls is conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Hilo. To get there, head north on Waianuenue Avenue until you reach the intersection of Rainbow Drive. Turn left onto Rainbow Drive and follow the signs to Rainbow Falls State Park. The park entrance is on the right, and ample parking is available in the parking area.
Address
Rainbow Falls, Hawaii address: 967 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, Hawaii
Map
Accessibility at the falls
Rainbow Falls Hilo, Hawaii, is easily accessible, and visitors can park their cars at the Rainbow Falls Trail. The trail is a short hike that leads to the viewpoint overlooking the falls.
The area is beautiful, with lush greenery, and offers fantastic views of the Hawaiian waterfall. However, as with every natural attraction, visitors should stay alert and aware of safety hazards. Flash floods and high water flow can occur suddenly, making it essential to heed all posted signs and exercise caution.
What time does Rainbow Falls close and open?
- 7 am to 5:30 pm
- Gates lock at 6:00 pm to Wailuku River State Park
Cost to see the falls
No entrance fee (free).
Hike to the falls
For those who enjoy hiking, several incredible trails around Rainbow Falls allow visitors to explore the area more thoroughly. One of the most popular trails is the Rainbow Falls Trail, a 0.5-mile round-trip hike that takes travelers through the lush rainforest and offers stunning views of the falls.
Another popular trail is the Boiling Pots Trail, a 1.7-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors to a series of pools and cascading waterfalls. Both trails are easily accessible and offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Rainbow Falls up close.
Natural Features of Rainbow Falls
Water flow and volume
One of the most fascinating aspects of Rainbow Falls is its unique water flow and rates. During the rainy season, the waterfall in Hilo is a powerful and majestic sight, with water cascading down at an incredible rate.
During dryer months, however, the Hawaiian waterfall is less intense, allowing visitors to explore the pools of water and surrounding flora and fauna. Although this Big Island waterfall is beautiful year-round, it’s worth checking the weather forecast before visiting to ensure you’ll see Rainbow Falls in all its glory.
Surrounding flora and fauna at Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls and the surrounding Wailuku River State Park are home to incredible flora and fauna. The lush rainforest contains various plant species, including bamboo, ferns, and guava trees.
Visitors can also spot wildlife in the area, including mongooses, Hawaiian ducks, and geese. The location is mainly known for its beautiful birdlife, including the native Hawaiian honeycreeper and the ‘i’iwi, a stunning red bird with a curved beak.
Activities and Attractions at the Falls
Hiking Trails
The Rainbow Falls trail offers an easy hike that takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the waterfall. The hiking trail is easily accessible and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
The trail is well-maintained, making navigating easy and enjoying the scenic beauty. While hiking, you will encounter breathtaking views of the surrounding tree canopy and the sound of the Hilo waterfall. The hiking trail also leads to Pe’e Pe’e Falls, another Hilo waterfall beside Rainbow Falls.
Picnic Area
The Rainbow Falls has a perfect picnic area with lush green grass and ample seating for visitors. The picnic area is easily accessible from the parking lot and provides stunning views of the waterfall in Hilo.
It is the perfect location for adults and children to enjoy a day out and spend quality time. The area is also equipped with clean restrooms, making it comfortable for visitors.
“Show Me da Rainbow”
A rainbow is caused when the sun is behind you and shining on water droplets around the waterfall. The reflection, refraction, and dispersion of light create the rainbow effect. The light reflects inside the droplets and separates into different wavelengths or colors, which is why Rainbow Falls got its name.
What causes a rainbow
A rainbow happens when the sun is at your back, hitting water droplets around the waterfall. The reflection, refraction, and dispersion of light cause the rainbow effects. Light reflects the droplet’s interior and separates into various wavelengths or colors, hence how Rainbow Falls got its name.
Boiling Pots
The Boiling Pots is another popular attraction near Rainbow Falls. It is a series of pools that get their name from the bubbling and churning of the water. When we were there people were swimming, but local officials were escorting them off the premises. There’s signs that say not to swim, so don’t swim at these areas. You can swim at a private waterfall in Hilo and you can read about our experience swimming at Kulaniapia Falls.
Wailuku River State Park
The Rainbow Falls is also a part of the Wailuku State Park, a 16-acre park that offers scenic beauty and recreational activities for visitors. The park’s activities include hiking trails and picnic areas. The park is an excellent place to spend a day with family and friends.
Tips and recommendations
Best time to visit Rainbow Falls
Timing is critical when visiting Rainbow Falls. The best time to go is early morning, ideally before 10 am when the sun is less intense. You’ll have a better chance of spotting a rainbow when the morning sun is at the right angle, casting a colorful reflection on the waterfall.
If you want a more peaceful and private experience, plan your visit for the late afternoon when most visitors have left. Avoid visiting Rainbow Falls on weekends or public holidays, as it can get crowded during these times.
Safety precautions to take
Although Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking area, taking some safety precautions is crucial. Flash floods can occur in Hilo, so checking the weather forecast before heading out and avoiding hiking trails during a storm or heavy rain is essential.
Also, be careful when walking on slippery rocks, especially during and after rainfall. The water flow can increase significantly during flash floods and can be dangerous to swim in or climb on the rocks.
It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the state park’s safety standards before visiting Wailuku River State Park. The park’s official website provides detailed information, including a transparency report, to ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable.
You can also find user-identified themes and reviews to get an informed idea of what to expect. When visiting the park, follow the cleanliness and general tips outlined on the website, such as leaving no evidence you were there, hiking on designated trails, and avoiding wildlife.
Nearby attractions
When visiting Rainbow Falls, it’s worth exploring the surrounding area, including the Pe’epe’e Falls and Boiling Pots. You can combine these attractions with a trip to the Wailuku River State Park for an immersive experience of the natural beauty of Hawaii.
The Pe’epe’e Falls are smaller but still a spectacle and have a natural swimming hole. Boiling Pots, also located in the Wailuku River State Park, is a unique attraction with several pools of water that create a boiling pot effect.
Read other travel tips and guides
Environmental conservation
Efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the falls
The Hilo falls undergone efforts to preserve the beauty of the area. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) created and implemented park rules to ensure guests follow them. For instance, visitors must park only in the marked spots in the parking area.
Additionally, the DLNR urges visitors to stay on the trails, dispose of trash in designated containers, not swim in the falls, and not climb on the rocks. These measures are necessary to prevent both environmental damage and incidents related to personal injuries.
Sustainable tourism practices
Sustainable tourism practices are another effective way to maintain a healthy and beautiful environment. Several businesses in the area promote eco-friendly efforts that benefit Rainbow Falls and the global climate.
The Boiling Pots, Pe’epe’e Falls, and Rainbow Falls hiking trails offer minimal impact on Rainbow Falls’ environment. Always research businesses before working with them to ensure they also take care of the environment and embrace sustainable tourism practices.
Ways visitors can help
Visitors can also do their part in preserving the natural beauty of these falls by adhering to the park rules and eco-friendly practices. When visiting the falls, remember to stay on the trails, dispose of trash in designated containers, avoid bringing single-use plastic, and respect the areas’ flora and fauna.
The preservation of falls is crucial for the environment and the cultural and spiritual roots of these natural wonders for the Hawaiian people. With your help, we can maintain the beauty of this breathtaking place.
Visit Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) in Hilo
If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring escape to nature, there’s no better place to go than Rainbow Falls in Hilo, Hawaii. The sight of the falls is truly a feast to the eyes. The sound of water cascading down the cliff is therapeutic to the ears.
If you want to be surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of nature, visit Rainbow Falls. Whether you’re trying to beat the scorching Hilo heat or just a waterfall enthusiast, Rainbow Falls is the perfect getaway.
