An 80-foot waterfall on the Wailuku River in Hilo, framed by a developed overlook within Wailuku River State Park.
Rainbow Falls, known in Hawaiian as Waiānuenue, drops 80 feet on the Wailuku River within Wailuku River State Park in Hilo, according to Hawaii's Division of State Parks. The falls are named for the rainbows that often form in their mist during morning hours, and local legend places a cave beneath the falls as the home of Hina, mother of the demigod Maui.
As of January 2026, the park charges a parking and entry fee covering both Rainbow Falls and the nearby Boiling Pots: Hawaii residents enter free with valid ID, while non-residents pay $5 entry plus $10 per vehicle, card only. The park is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with gates locking at 6:00 p.m. Viewing is from a developed overlook rather than the riverbed itself; check the official park page for current conditions before visiting.
As of January 2026, Wailuku River State Park charges entry and parking fees ($5 entry + $10/vehicle for non-Hawaii residents; free for residents with ID). Check the official DLNR page for current rates before visiting. Check the current notice ↗
Know before you go
Wailuku River State Park, off Waiānuenue Avenue in Hilo; developed overlook area.
Open year-round; flow is typically heaviest after rain.
Short walk from parking to a fenced overlook; no hike required.
As of Jan 2026: free for HI residents with ID; non-residents $5 entry + $10/vehicle parking (card only). Covers Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots.
Not detailed on the official page; contact the DLNR Division of State Parks for accessibility specifics.
2026-10-11. Conditions and requirements can change; confirm with the land manager before travelling.
Sources & further reading
This is a researched visitor guide, not a claim that our editors have personally visited. Trail conditions, permits, and access can change.
