Rainbow Falls is in Wailuku River State Park, run by the Hawaii Division of State Parks, on Rainbow Drive off Waiānuenue Avenue from downtown Hilo. It is known for the rainbow that forms in its mist on many mornings. Legends say the cave beneath the waterfall was the home of Hina, the mother of a demigod in Hawaiian tradition. USGS explains that the thick lip of the falls is the ʻAnuenue lava flow from Mauna Loa, and that the Wailuku River roughly marks the boundary between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa lava flows. The park lists restrooms, a water fountain and a scenic viewpoint. State Parks also lists falling rocks, a hazardous cliff, flash floods and submerged objects, and a flash flood can turn the river at Rainbow Falls into a devastating flood, as it did during Hurricane Lane. Non-residents pay entry and parking fees, and one fee covers both Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots. Alcohol and smoking are not allowed.
When to go
On many mornings a rainbow forms in the mist (State Parks)
On Rainbow Drive, off Waiānuenue Avenue from downtown Hilo.
