Waiānuenue: Chasing Rainbows at Hilo’s Iconic Waterfall
A short, lush rainforest hike with a cinematic rainbow moment—accessible, cultural, and instantly rewarding.
You turn off the single-lane road into a pocket of damp green and the air shifts: cooler, fragrant with wet earth and guava, threaded with the thin hiss of falling water. The trail to Rainbow Falls—Waiānuenue in Hawaiian—is more like a quiet procession of ferns and ʻōhiʻa trees that open to a natural theater. At the lip of the lookout, the stream vanishes as it drops 80 feet into a fern-ringed plunge pool, and light slices through the mist to paint a transient rainbow across the curtain of water. It’s a small, cinematic moment—the kind that turns an ordinary day into a memory you revisit every time you see a bow in the sky.
Trail Wisdom
Time it for mid-morning light
The rainbow effect appears most reliably between 9–11 a.m. when sun angle meets the falls’ mist—plan your visit then for photography.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails and viewing areas get slick from mist and rain; lightweight hiking shoes with good tread reduce slips on wet basalt and muddy paths.
Respect barriers and signage
Stay behind fences and on designated trails to protect fragile native vegetation and prevent dangerous falls near the lip and plunge pool.
Carry a light rain jacket
Hilo’s microclimate changes rapidly—pack a compact waterproof to stay comfortable even on otherwise clear days.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Boiling Pots—series of braided pools and rapids just downstream
- •Onomea Bay trail and arboretum for coastal rainforest scenery
Wildlife
apapane (native forest bird), ʻio — Hawaiian hawk occasionally seen soaring above
Conservation Note
Respect trail markers and avoid trampling native vegetation; support local conservation groups working on invasive species removal and watershed protection.
Rainbow Falls sits in an area of deep cultural significance; local stories link the falls to the goddess Hina, and the site sits within lands shaped by ancient Hawaiian settlement and later plantation era changes.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, wildflower viewing, comfortable temperatures
Challenges: occasional heavy showers, muddy trails
Spring balances drier spells and regular rain; trails are lush and the falls are active, but pack for showers.
summer
Best for: clearer skies, best chance for rainbows, pairing with coastal drives
Challenges: sporadic storms, higher humidity
Summer usually brings slightly drier weather—ideal for rainbows—but expect humidity and the occasional tropical downpour.
fall
Best for: photography, less crowded weekdays, pairing with Hilo markets
Challenges: increased rainfall later in season, slippery terrain
Early fall can be a sweet spot for visitors: good light and manageable crowds, though rain increases as the season progresses.
winter
Best for: dramatic water flow, storm watching from safe viewpoints, bird activity
Challenges: heavy rains and runoff, damaged or closed trails after storms
Winter delivers the fullest waterfalls and dramatic weather; check conditions before you go and allow extra time for travel.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Lightweight waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against sudden showers and the constant mist near the falls.
Grippy trail shoesEssential
Good traction is essential on wet basalt and muddy side paths.
Tripod or monopod
Stabilizes long exposures for silky-water photography in lower light.
Packable daypack with water bottleEssential
Carry water, snacks, and a spare layer for comfort on short hikes or extended loops.
Common Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Rainbow Falls?
No, the main overlook and parking are free, though parking spaces are limited and fill up early.
Can you swim at the base of the falls?
Swimming at the main plunge pool is not recommended due to strong currents and hidden hazards; adhere to posted warnings.
How long does a visit typically take?
A quick stop takes 20–30 minutes; combine with nearby Boiling Pots and short trails for a half-day outing (2–3 hours).
Are dogs allowed?
Rules can vary—service animals are allowed, but pets may be restricted in sensitive areas; keep dogs on leash and under control if permitted.
When are rainbows most visible?
Mid-morning when the sun is at the right angle to meet the mist—roughly 9–11 a.m., depending on the season.
Is the viewpoint wheelchair accessible?
Yes—the primary overlook has paved access from the parking area, though some surrounding trails are uneven and muddy.
What to Pack
Rain jacket, grippy hiking shoes, water bottle, camera with tripod—protects from showers, improves footing, keeps you hydrated, and captures long-exposure shots.
Did You Know
Rainbow Falls is locally called Waiānuenue, meaning "rainbow water," and the waterfall drops approximately 80 feet into a palm- and fern-lined pool.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure parking; check local weather and road conditions; pair the visit with Hilo Farmers Market for food; avoid cliff edges and heed warning signs.
Local Flavor
Hilo’s market culture and small-town aloha vibe pair naturally with a waterfall visit—sample fresh poke, coconut candy, and listen for live Hawaiian music at local vendors for an authentic taste of island life.
Logistics Snapshot
Free parking (limited); accessible main viewpoint; best light mid-morning; allow 30–90 minutes; no unsafe swimming; bring rain gear.
Sustainability Note
Stick to established paths, pack out all trash, and support local conservation groups protecting native forests and watershed health.