Wailuku River State Park protects two of the Big Island’s most accessible and spectacular natural attractions: Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) and the Boiling Pots (Peʻepeʻe Falls). Located just minutes from downtown Hilo, these sites offer easy access to Hawaii’s waterfall magic without hiking.
Rainbow Falls gets its name from the rainbows that form in the misty spray, best seen in the morning sun. According to Hawaiian legend, the cave behind the falls is home to Hina, mother of the demigod Maui.
Park Overview
| Wailuku River State Park Overview | |
|---|---|
| Location | Hilo, Big Island |
| Rainbow Falls Height | 80 feet |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Hours | 7 AM – 6 PM |
| Best Time for Rainbows | 9-10 AM on sunny mornings |
| Walk to Viewpoint | Less than 1 minute from parking |
Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue)
The park’s main attraction is the 80-foot Rainbow Falls, viewable from an overlook just steps from the parking lot. The falls are most spectacular after rain when the Wailuku River is flowing heavily, and rainbows appear most frequently on sunny mornings when the sun illuminates the mist.
Boiling Pots (Peʻepeʻe Falls)
Upstream from Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pots are a series of pools connected by underground channels. When the river is high, churning water creates the appearance of “boiling” between pools. A short drive from Rainbow Falls with its own parking area.
Safety Information
| ⚠️ Critical Safety Information | |
|---|---|
| NO SWIMMING | Swimming at Boiling Pots is extremely dangerous and prohibited—multiple drowning deaths |
| Stay on Trails | Slippery rocks and unstable cliffs at all viewpoints |
| Flash Floods | River can rise without warning—stay away from water’s edge |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see rainbows at Rainbow Falls?
The best time to see rainbows is mid-morning (9-10 AM) on sunny days when the sun is positioned to illuminate the waterfall mist. Cloudy or afternoon visits typically won’t produce rainbows.
Can you swim at Rainbow Falls or Boiling Pots?
No—swimming is prohibited at both sites. Boiling Pots has been the site of multiple drowning deaths due to powerful underwater currents. Both areas have dangerous conditions even when they appear calm.
See Hilo’s Famous Waterfalls
Rainbows, waterfalls, and Hawaiian legends just minutes from town
Explore More Hawaii State Parks
Wailuku River State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Hawaii. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Hawaii guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Wailuku River SP — features Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue) — an 80-foot waterfall where rainbows form in the morning mist. Hawaiian legend says the cave behind the falls is home to Hina, goddess of the moon. Upstream, Boiling Pots (Pe’epe’e Falls) features a series of bubbling volcanic pools. The park’s tropical forest supports native birds and ‘ōhi’a lehua.
Nearby Attractions
Hilo — adjacent. Mauna Kea — 30 miles west. Hawaii Volcanoes NP — 30 miles south.
More parks nearby: Wailoa River State Park is a short drive away, while Akaka Falls State Park lies a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Wailuku River State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are heavily restricted in Hawaii state parks: they are not permitted in pavilions, swimming areas, campgrounds, lodges, on beaches or wherever posted, and only limited areas allow them.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Where permitted, pets must be crated, caged, on a 6-foot or shorter leash, or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches or in swimming areas statewide
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted in lodges or campgrounds, so overnight accommodations are effectively pet-free
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Rules vary by park and posting; effectively day-use only in the limited unposted areas where pets are tolerated
Are dogs allowed at Wailuku River State Park?
Pets are heavily restricted in Hawaii state parks: they are not permitted in pavilions, swimming areas, campgrounds, lodges, on beaches or wherever posted, and only limited areas allow them. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dlnr.hawaii.gov. More: Hawaii state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Wailuku River State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
