For more information: https://www.lovebigisland.com/hilo/rainbow-falls/
Rainbow Falls is a popular waterfall located in Hawaii that cascades down a lush green cliffside into a turquoise pool below. The vibrant colors of the surrounding foliage and the misty spray from the waterfall create a magical and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. It's a great spot for swimming, hiking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the Hawaiian landscape.
TRAVEL TIPS:
Weather: Located in Hilo, Rainbow Falls often experiences light rain and overcast skies, contributing to the lush greenery. Visit in the early morning when the sun hits the mist just right—you may catch the namesake rainbow.
Pack a Day Bag: Bring a light rain jacket, umbrella, bug spray, water, and a camera. A towel or cloth can be helpful to wipe off mist from your lens or phone.
What to Wear: Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip—the paths can be slick from rain and mist. Light, breathable clothes work well in Hilo’s humid climate.
What to Bring: No admission fee is required, but bring your own water and essentials—there are no vendors on-site. You may also want a tripod for waterfall photography.
Phone Service: Cell reception is generally strong in this area.
Bathrooms: Public restrooms are available near the parking lot.
Parking: Free parking is available just steps from the falls. It can fill up quickly during peak hours, so arrive early for easier access and better lighting.
Check-In Booth: There is no formal check-in—this is a self-guided stop managed by the state park system.
Photography: Rainbow Falls is very photogenic, especially in the morning light. Bring a wide-angle lens or phone with panoramic capabilities. The banyan trees near the top viewpoint also make for magical nature shots.
Accessible for Disability: The main viewing platform is wheelchair accessible with paved paths. The upper trail and banyan area require stairs and are not accessible to those with limited mobility.
Rainbow Falls – History and Cultural Significance
1. Location and Natural Beauty
Located just minutes from downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls (known in Hawaiian as Waiānuenue, meaning “rainbow water”) is an 80-foot waterfall that plunges over a lava cave into the Wailuku River below. The falls are named for the rainbows that often appear in the morning mist, especially when the sun hits the water just right.
The lush surroundings—filled with banyan trees, ferns, and tropical plants—make it one of the most photographed waterfalls in Hawai‘i and a must-see stop for travelers exploring the Hilo side of the island.
2. Hawaiian Legend of Hina
Rainbow Falls holds deep cultural meaning in Hawaiian mythology. According to legend, the lava cave behind the waterfall was the home of Hina, the mother of the demigod Māui. She was said to dwell there in peace until disturbed by the lizard-like mo‘o, Kuna, who lived upstream.
In the moʻolelo (legend), Māui came to his mother’s aid, using his strength and magic to drive away Kuna, clearing the waters and allowing his mother to live undisturbed once again. This story is part of the rich oral tradition that ties Hawaiian gods, family, and nature into one spiritual landscape.
3. Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Rainbow Falls is part of the Wailuku River State Park, and offers:
Paved paths and lookouts for easy viewing
Short trails through banyan groves and forested areas
Free access and parking
The falls are especially popular in the early morning, when the sunlight creates shimmering rainbows in the spray. While swimming is not permitted at the base of the falls due to strong currents and safety concerns, visitors often enjoy peaceful walks and photo opportunities.
4. Rainbow Falls Today
Today, Rainbow Falls remains a cherished site for locals and visitors alike, blending natural beauty, accessibility, and cultural depth. It’s often visited alongside Peʻepeʻe Falls and the Boiling Pots, just upstream, as part of a short and scenic tour of the Wailuku River area.
