💦 Waterfall Plunge Pool
🟢 Easy Free Entry
🌊 About Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue, Big Island)
One of the Big Island's most photographed and easily accessed waterfalls, named for the rainbows that often appear in its mist on sunny mornings — primarily a scenic overlook destination via an easy paved viewing area, not a developed swimming spot.
📋 Visit Details
Water Temperature
💧 N/A for swimming — viewing destination
Best Season
📅 Year-round, best flow after rain
Water Type
80-ft waterfall — viewing overlook, swimming not the primary or advisable activity
Managed By
Hawaii DLNR (Wailuku River State Park)
County
Hawaii County, Hawaii
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Rainbow Falls, Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Access Notes:
Easy, paved overlook parking and viewing platform; the pool below is not an official, developed swim area and involves scrambling on wet rock if attempted
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace