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.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Wailuku River State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
