Rainbow Falls

Truly a beautiful place. Was a bit surprised by the obscure location and driving through a neighborhood to get there as well as the tiny parking lot. It was well worth the drive to see such a pretty and relaxing place

Whenever I am in the area, I always like to visit Rainbow falls. Rainbow falls is a great place for tourists to visit also. There is plenty of parking, it is free, wheelchair ♿ access, safe and a real treat. Checkout a Rainbow falls if you have never been. Very early morningd are the very least crowded. I usually visit Rainbow falls on the weekdays in the morning. Once again, it is free.

Short 1 minute walk from the parking lot to view the waterfall. There’s a small platform to look over but the best view is close to the sign. Clean public bathrooms with flushing toilets. Free park. Parking available.

This used to be a free visit and a great place to spend about a half hour. There is a fee now if you are not from Hawaii $5/person and $10/car parked. It is a nice waterfall but in my opinion not worth the cost. I’d recommend other falls in the area with better views. (Akaka Falls).

Totally worth a visit - fairly easy and well groomed trail - good for families. The upper falls view has 3 view points. Don't miss the steep steps down to the viewing platform (it looks steep but worth it - trust me). Note that this is different than the lower falls sign which points to the left which path goes another 0.6 miles to another smaller falls view (not really worth it in my opinion). Enjoy the falls - good lunch spot

The falls is a quick visit. Nothing spectacular but can be a quick pit stop. The best attraction here is the banyan tree which looked old and majestic and totally worth the stop over.

Very easy to access. The fee is $5+tax per person. Inside parking is $10. You can park on the road for free. Your pay covers visiting Boiling Pots as well. You can walk up hill to view it too. However I think at the base is better for pictures.

Awesome waterfall from a waterfall junkie!!! The two observation spots are perfect for different views of the falls. The <5 min walk up to to see the banyan trees and top of the waterfall is worth it. Rainbow Falls stayed true to its name with beautiful rainbows. For those with accessibility concerns, you can see the waterfall from the parking lot. Bathrooms were available. We visited around 1 PM on a weekend in November and it wasn't crowded. We stayed around 30 min. 10/10 would recommend.

If you're visiting the area and looking for a quick, scenic stop that's perfect for group photos and family memories, this spot is an absolute gem. We stopped by as part of our sightseeing itinerary and were so glad we did. It's one of those classic, iconic destinations that truly captures the natural beauty of the area -- and it's easily accessible, which makes it even better if you're short on time but still want to soak in some stunning views. The waterfall view is breathtaking, especially if you catch it during good lighting (golden hour was gorgeous!). The main lookout offers a postcard-perfect angle of the falls, but if you're willing to take a short walk, there are a few elevated areas nearby that provide even more impressive vantage points. Great for panoramic shots or just enjoying a peaceful moment surrounded by nature. Parking is limited, and the lot itself isn't very big -- but don't let that discourage you. We found that spots turn over quickly since most people stop here briefly for photos and to take in the scenery. With a bit of patience, you can usually grab a stall without too much hassle. It's not a long stop -- you probably won't spend more than 20-30 minutes here -- but it's totally worth it. This is the kind of place that makes for a perfect family photo op, a nice breath of fresh air on a road trip, or a romantic detour if you're exploring the area as a couple. There aren't a ton of amenities (no major facilities or shops at the viewpoint), so plan accordingly -- but honestly, that's part of the charm. It feels untouched and natural, and you get to focus entirely on the beauty of the falls and the surroundings. Highly recommend this as a quick but memorable stop for any tourists or locals showing guests around. Don't forget your camera -- you'll want to remember this one!

Not much of a hike. Little walk. Nice views. Waterfall was pretty. Parking is small. Why we have to pay parking and per person is a huge joke.

Very short walk to see the waterfall from the parking lot. Don't miss it if you're in Hilo! Easy access and wheelchair accessible.

Cannot get shorter than this. Park and see the beautiful falls. Just a few steps on a well maintain trail, you're at the prime photo positions. Not many people, quick visit, enjoy the quite scene and hike around

Easy to visit attraction in Hilo. We stopped by today. Easy to get to, and the falls are right by the parking lot, so there isn't a lot of walking needed. There was a rainbow, as advertised, and we walked up the several vantage points, taking pictures to our hearts content. The massive banyan tree at the overlook above the falls is worth the short climb up. Happy to return!

Not really a hike, more of a lookout. The bottom lookout has the best views of the falls itself and is wheelchair accessible. To the left of that overlook, go up the couple of stairs (a bit uneven) to another lookout. The big rocks and boulders prevent a clear look of the whole waterfall (just the top) but you can see more of the Wailuku River and a couple of waterfalls upstream (inaccessible). Don't miss the gigantic banyan tree to the left of the top lookout, just be careful of all the exposed roots.

Short walk to view beautiful falls. - No parking fee or hiking fee - Easy walk to hike - Parking lot is smaller - Great stop on your island tour - we visited here after the botanical garden but before the volcano.

From the parking lot to the observation deck only 1 min walk, no hike needed. The parking lot is kinda small but turnover pretty fast. There's no trail to walk down or get closer to the falls from the parking area and observation deck.

Our friend told us to check this waterfall out. We arrived and they were doing landscaping and took up most of the parking lot. I was able to wait for a parking space in just a few minutes. The waterfall is very pretty and it's one of the ones that you can see without walking at all. To see it better it was a short climb up so stairs and you get to see it all. There are at least three vantage points to take awesome pictures It is clean and so nice to view. A must stop place.

Rainbow falls is considered a drive up fall, we spent about 10 minutes here. I would say it's worth seeing if you're 10-15 minutes away, but don't drive over an hour to see it. It's not very impressive as you cannot get close to it. There are two spots you can view the falls from. The parking lot has limited spots but it is a quick turnaround so just be patient.

Easy place to get to the falls. On our visit someone was having a mental breakdown so everyone was on edge. Everyone was unsure if they were safe with this person screaming at them. The police were called. The falls were easy to see and at the time we could see the rainbow that the falls get their name from. It would be very cool to see when the river was running high. On our visit, the river was a little below normal. The parking area is small so you may have to wait for a spot to open up.

Scenic waterfall that does not require any type of hiking; great for older travelers. There are also stairs to the top of the waterfall for a different view. If you are willing to hike a short 5 minutes, you can get to the other side where you can take a dip in the water (it's cold). Smaller parking lot. Clean restrooms nearby.

I think every family should come out to rainbow Falls. It's a really easy hike up the stairs and then you get to see this glorious, huge, beautiful tree!! At the top of the falls, you can see the stream of where the water comes down and it doesn't look too rocky, but it's a nice drop! Lol From the standing point at the bottom of the fall, there's another amazing tree with a great lookout point, but there were too many people crowded around, so we just went up the stairs. Anybody could come out to the fall with a young child, even toddler and gaze at its beauty and since I had two teenage boys with us, we hiked up the stairs with ease! A little past where that amazing tree is, across the street a gentleman was selling coconuts and pineapples ! I honestly love Hawaii and I love coming to visit Hilo on the east side of the island!! There's so many beautiful Amazon, tropical, wondrous things over here. Everything comes to life!! There's so much history to this land and I want to learn all of it!! Around the corner from this fall, are many others as well as Pe'epe'e Falls and some great Lava Tubes! Check out my other reviews on those two and a new Boba spot in downtown Hilo! Everyone should also check out the amazing farmers market every Wednesday and Saturday morning in Hilo! You can get fruits and veggies for the week as well as great souvenir presents that are handmade by locals!! You don't have to buy cheap junk. They have wannabe Hawaiian stores like the ABC store where it doesn't help the community. At Hilo farmers market you directly help the locals!!

This was an easy quick stop in Hilo. It's a beautiful but deadly waterfall. Almost 30 people have died there. As long as you're careful and don't go past the railings, it's completely safe. Make sure you wear close toed shoes!

This is a beautiful easily accessible waterfall right off the road in Hilo. Not nearly the hike that Akaka Falls is.... The parking lot is smallish, but it's free. I'm normally more wordy than this, but I have some catching up to do here on Yelp from our trip... While you are in Hawaii please spend some time and learn the history and the true culture of the Hawaiian islands. As long as you are in the area make sure you check out the local shopping and restaurants!

Parking lot is right next to the falls and easily accessible for wheelchairs/strollers. Went early morning with the sun but didn't manage to catch any rainbows. Regardless, it was an easy pit stop for the waterfall.

It was easy to get to this waterfall. If you want you can climb some stairs for a different view. My knees aren't made for steps so I enjoyed my views from where I was at.

In Hilo, admission and parking is free so we decided to come here instead of Akaka Falls. The parking lot is small and very limited but luckily people don't stay here for too long so spots eventually open up. You can walk up a path to view the falls from higher up or see it directly in front of you. Due to the surrounding greenery, it is very difficult to see where the falls meets the water below to see the "rainbow effect" there is only one small spot in a corner that has enough cleared away where you can visualize the falls. Lots of water falling over the falls every second, very powerful. Glad this was free, would have been disappointed if this costs money.

Wonderful waterfall to visit on the big island. Make sure to see the ancient banyan tree at the top of the waterfall. Looks like something out of lord of the rings. Easy to get to and a quick hike to the top.

Park and you're there. A short walk to see the falls. A hike up some stairs to see the pools and spectacular banyan trees. This space holds secrets and stories of dragons, Maui, and boats. When the light is right, the falls produce a rainbow connecting us all.

Rainbow Falls was our second stop after visiting the caves, and despite hearing mixed reviews, we're so glad we didn't skip it. Parking was fairly easy since the lot is small, but cars cycle through regularly. As three girls in dresses, this spot was perfect because we could just hop out of the car and be right at the falls. I would not call it a hike....more like a stroll. You can enjoy the view across the falls or head up to the top. The rain had left the water a bit murky, but it was still beautiful. Dont miss it!

This waterfall is very easy to get to. It's just a drive to the park. Park your car and an easy walk up to the waterfall. There are nice views of the waterfall. They have a display of the history of Rainbow falls. That was interesting to read.

Located within Wailuku River State Park, Rainbow Falls is the main stop here. This is virtually within the city limits of Hilo. The falls are beautiful; not necessarily overwhelmingly stunning. But a great stop on your island tour. Take a short hike up the stone pathway, past the falls, for a view of the river and source of the falls. But watch your step, it is quite rocky, treacherous and slippery.

Rainbow Falls is a really convenient, accessible park to see a nice waterfall. I'm not sure I would have went out of my way to see this place, but it's pretty darn close to Hilo city center, and it's free! Don't expect much actual hiking; it's just a viewing platform by a small parking lot, as well as some stairs for an elevated vantage point. There's a tiny offshoot of a trail from the top of the stairs, but it leads nowhere essentially. Come here if you're already in Hilo and looking for something quick, easy, and free to do.

This literally drive up and walk 20 feet waterfall is perfect for anyone, even if you have trouble getting around! If you need a little walk there are stairs to a different view above the falls. 10/10 waterfall!

Beautiful easy walk up a staired train with railings to very the magical trees and another path to view the falls that's right off the parking lot. There's one picnic table amd public restrooms. Many tour busses.

You drive here, and the Rainbow falls are right there. There is a small step path you can walk up to look at what is above the falls. And there's also this really neat area at the top with a bunch of vines and roots, but it was blocked off. So you can only walk a little bit. Sadly, we didn't see any rainbows when we came at 10am, so maybe we needed to come earlier than that. It's a popular spot, so it might take a little bit to find a spot in the lot, but people came and went pretty quickly.

Great pit stop straight out of the airport on our way around the island. Beautiful falls and majestic trees!

Solid waterfall with a couple of viewing platforms. If you're lucky enough to get a spot in the main parking area then you can almost see the falls from your car. There's a lower viewing platform next to the parking lot and a higher one up a few dozen stairs above the parking area - the high one is not ADA accessible. Other parking options are available nearby and all of them seem to be free. You won't get close enough to the falls to feel the mist. There's a restroom by the main parking area. Be sure to visit the most amazing banyan tree just after the high viewing platform - see my photos and videos!

Another tourist spot to stop, park, and enjoy for about 5 minutes then say, I'm glad I came and saw. Driving around the island and through Hilo, this is one of those places that you checkmark off your list of things to see. It is beautiful and worth the little detour on your drive.

Hina of Hilo is best known as the mother of Hawaiian hero, Māui... her name Hina relates to a powerful female force, a goddess or queen. This is my story... A weekend on the Eastside of Hawai'i Island must include waterfalls! Because in our world it's okay to chase waterfalls! After coffee and a light breakfast, my bestie and I decided to first take the short drive from Hilo town to see our first, the picturesque, Rainbow Falls! The rain, sans the tourists lol, made it special! At Waiānuenue aka Rainbow Falls, the mighty Wailuku River crashes into a large fresh water pool below. Known in the Hawaiian language as Waiānuenue, it translates to "rainbow water", the falls flows over a natural lava cave, the mythological home to Hina, an ancient Hawaiian goddess. The Battle of Wailuku River was also fought on these grounds. Offerings can be found until this day. No entree fee, just bring Aloha! In the end, I've been here before, perhaps even during the Battle of Wailuku River, but I know I'll return again and again. Easy access from town and the lush greens (tho much is non-native) gives an instant calm to one's soul. As wet as Hilo was during a storm, in my eyes it made it that much more magical, especially with my waterfalls chaser bestie... Kyra K.! It's okay to dream! Rainbow Falls derives its name from the fact that, on sunny mornings, rainbows can be seen in the mist thrown up by the waterfall. Yet, even on this rainy visit we could still see a few... a forever moment in time.

Small but beautiful waterfall very close to the city area of Hilo. Free parking and there is a small trail that goes into some trees, but there is not much to do at the park. There is an elevated viewing area but the view is blocked by trees so the view is actually better at ground level. Nice for a quick 10 minute stop and photo but not much else to do.

Hubby, daughter and I came here to see this back when we went to Hilo on the big island. This waterfall was amazing and was close by our hotel. It was about a 5 minute drive. I could just stand there watching the waterfall for hours. Such a beautiful thing and the weather was sunny and warm. I am not sure of the history of the waterfall since I am not from the big island but definitely worth checking out if you're on the Hilo side. Plenty of parking spaces nearby. Just literally a walk up some stairs or a ramp for those that are handicapped and have a wheelchair. There were signs around saying no jumping into the waterfall. We saw a few people on the other side of the waterfall. I hope they were smart enough not to jump in the waterfall. I enjoyed my time here when we visited and this is one of the places to go if you visit Hilo on the big island. A must see.

Beautiful falls and easy to view. There is a parking lot and a small building with public restrooms right next to the falls. At the time of my visit (9/16), the hiking trail to the falls was closed. Therefore, we took a few pictures and left. There is a ramp that is handicap friendly. Only a few stairs for those who choose to take them. On a physical scale of 1-5, i would rate this as a 1. The restroom was clean. I checked under the toilet seat for tropical bugs or spiders- none to be found. The sinks have soap. The small lot is located near a neighborhood and off of a small street. They were doing some road repairs so the traffic pattern was affected but not much of a deterrent. Overall I'd recommend a quick pit stop here to see the falls, take a pic and use the restroom if needed.

You need sunshine to see the rainbow. You don't need sunshine to see a beautiful waterfall in an amazing setting. Just a short drive from the center of Hilo Town. Drive up and it's just steps to the viewing area. Most exquisite waterfalls require an hour or more of hiking to see. Everyone can enjoy this waterfall. Rainbow Falls is a definite stop during your trip on the Big Island.

Loved this waterfall and the location! The waterfall is so beautiful and at certain angles you can see an actual rainbow (hence the name). The tail is nice since you can drive right up to it without any hiking or physical activity. It is great if you have older people in your group or kids who can't do a mile+ hike which most nice waterfalls or scenic routes are located. There is a trail in that area but it was closed when I was visiting. There are also restrooms available. The waterfall can get a bit crowded at times but there's a lot of turnover where people come and take photos and leave after 10 minutes so if you wait around, there are a lot of photo opportunities. There are a bunch of different angles you can see the waterfall at. Highly recommended to come by and see if you're in the area! Might not be worth it to drive across the island just for the waterfall though.

Don't go chasing waterfalls... You can just drive to one while in Hilo. Sorry ha. Definitely 5 stars - You don't even have to hike to see this waterfall! (Although a short hike would be a fun thing to do, depending on how hot and humid it is) Drive right up and park your car in the designated parking lot (plenty of parking space). Walk right up (there are a few steps but also a ramp for wheelchairs or strollers). And boom, you are face to face with a beautiful waterfall.

Such a beautiful sight! The path to see the falls are easy to access- you can climb up to the top and also see some wonderful lush greenery.

Parking is an issue. It is one way and while we followed the rules and went around, someone else stole a spot that opened up because they turned around in the parking lot and waited for a spot to open. The rainbow falls itself is beautiful, but be prepared to share the experience with lots of other people. It can take away from the serenity. I suggest taking a minute to enjoy the falls and help others take their group photos, get yours and then go explore the trees surrounding falls. We went on a rainy day and not many people ventured in there and we were able to have a family moment.

Waianuenue aka Rainbow Falls is a waterfall you really don't have to chase. Drive up, walk a few steps and BAM! Waterfall, lava cave, lush vegetation, and of course, the mini rainbow (if it's sunny). Fun fact: the lava cave is home to Hina, an ancient Hawaiian goddess, the goddess of the moon, well... according to legends. And the falls drop into Wailuku river. Supposedly, there is another viewing area on the upper left side of the falls but it's closed due to visitors falling injuring themselves. But the main viewing area is accessible for all; young, old, wheelchair bound and strollers. The rainbow in the falls is created when sun's rays hits the mist/droplets from the waterfall that surround the falling water. The light reflects off the inside of the droplet, and when it exits, it creates a dispersion of light. So yeah, go when it's sunny or you'll see just falls. Best to go in the morning when the light is hitting the falls just right and when it's not crowded. You can spend a good 10-20 minutes here. There's benches to sit on to take in the views and a restroom nearby. You can't hike to, jump nor swim in the falls, it's mainly a pretty thing to look at. Walk up, Ooo and Ahh, bathroom, then leave. There's hibiscus flowers and monstera plants to admire all around. And off in the distance you can see an ancient banyan tree in the dense tropical forest. Definitely check out the falls if you're in Hilo! It's free and pleasing to the eye.

Rainbow (Waiānuenue) Falls are the waterfalls located in Hilo, Hawaii. The main falls are about 80 feet tall. There are a few smaller ones next to the main waterfall. These waterfalls are in the Hawai'i State Parks. There is no fee to see the falls. It's a super easy access, especially for the elderly. My elderly parents enjoyed the beautiful waterfalls without much effort to get to the waterfall outlook. At the time we visited, we could not see the rainbow. At the right lighting, Rainbow Falls will have its eponymous rainbow prism. Rainbow Falls on sunny mornings around 10 am, rainbows can be seen in the mist thrown up by the waterfall. At Rainbow (Waiānuenue) Falls, the Wailuku River rushes into a large water pool below. The whole water area is filled with lush, dense nonnative tropical rainforest and the turquoise-colored pool. It's also surrounded by many beautiful, colorful wild ginger plants and giant monstera. There are also many varieties of old trees, flowers, vegetables, and even wild animals. The falls are within the Wailuku River State Park. This is such a beautiful and magnificent destination in Hilo. Highly recommend for everyone! Lots of bugs and mosquitos so protect yourself! Sunblock and hat on super sunny days.

Easy to find waterfall location. This waterfall does not required much walking. The water is pretty. This place does get crowded when we went yesterday on Labor Day. The restrooms are located next to the parking lot and that is super convenience.

Wow a slice of Mother Nature. A short drive from downtown Hilo brings you to theses majestic waterfalls. Simply place rainbow waterfalls into Waze and away you go. Simple directions. Easy to find , plenty of free parking. Even a man selling fresh coconuts from his truck. The falls viewing area is clean and easy to access. All paved and flat. Rest room area are maintained and clean.

Very beautiful waterfall. Stairs on left closed because visitors keep getting hurt falling into the river and falling off the water fall. Beautiful views of the waterfall without having to drive super far from the city of hilo

Take a quick stop here for a beautiful view of Rainbow Falls! We came here early and were able to see a rainbow at the bottom of the waterfall! Parking is free and the view is better than Akaka Falls

Beautiful spot to stroll the falls area is short 3 minute walk from the parking lot, but if you continue up the stairs you have paths that meander through the jungle and a top view of the falls. Free parking as of 2023 with a large restroom facility near he street.

Visited the Rainbow Falls which is located right within Hilo with a nicely cared for park attached to it. As you get out of your car you immediately hear the falls. There is a large viewing platform providing a nice vantage point. The fall flows over a natural lava cave, the mythological home to Hina, ancient Hawaiian goddess. Rainbow Falls gets its name from the rainbow that can be seen in the mist at certain times when the sun shines through. The walls are surrounded by thick forest with blooming flowers. There is no fee to visit this State park.

Rainbow Falls is a good beginning start for introduction to the falls of The Big Island. Easy access with overlook. Parking lot and restroom access.

Nice spot only minutes from the town of Hilo. There is a handicap ramp area if needed. There is also a nice path to climb the rock stairs up the hill.