Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls, or Waianuenue, sits on the Wailuku River just minutes from downtown Hilo. The falls drop roughly 80 feet into a large pool, and on sunny mornings the mist creates rainbows. A viewing platform is a few steps from the parking area, making it one of the island's easiest waterfall stops. Upstream, the Boiling Pots are a series of churning pools linked by smaller falls, where the river froths between basalt basins.

Water flow depends on rain, so a visit after a wet night is dramatic, while dry spells can reduce the falls to a trickle. Morning is best for rainbows, as the sun hits the mist at the right angle. The overlook is free and requires no hiking, but stay behind railings; rocks are slippery and flash floods can occur.

Swimming is not recommended at either the falls or the pots because of flash flood risk, strong currents and leptospirosis in freshwater. Enjoy the views, take photos and watch for rain upstream. A short drive connects the two sites, and both are close to downtown Hilo, so it is easy to combine them with a market visit.

Mix this with Akaka Falls and the Hamakua coast drive for a full waterfall day. Parking is small, so go early, and wear shoes with grip for wet paths. Bring a rain layer, since showers are common on the Hilo side.

If you get to the falls early, you may have the platform nearly to yourself and the best chance of seeing rainbows form. Walk a short trail near the viewing platform to see a huge banyan tree with a tangle of aerial roots, a favorite subject for photographers. At the Boiling Pots, a short paved path leads to railed viewpoints, and the roar of the river grows louder as you approach. Check weather forecasts and avoid the area during heavy rain, when water levels can rise quickly and the paths can turn slick.

Both sites are inexpensive, short stops, but they carry lasting impressions: the sound of the river, the cool air and the green, mossy rock make this one of the nicest places to pause on the Hilo side of the island. The name Waianuenue means rainbow-seen-in-water, which is a good clue about what to look for.