
Waiānuenue (Rainbow) Falls
A scenic gem in downtown Hilo
Location
Location
Details
The charming old-school island town of Hilo, seemingly frozen in time, has many waterfalls that are not only easy to find, but require just a short walk to view. Waiānuenue Falls, famously known as Rainbow Falls, is one such waterfall that stretches about 80-feet long and is probably the most easily accessible on the island—just a short walk from the parking lot and only a few minutes from downtown Hilo. The falls' name was inspired by the multi-colored prisms seen in the mist of the falling water and comes from ānuenue, meaning rainbow, and wai meaning water. The water spills over an ancient lava rock cave that is said to be the home of the Hawaiian moon goddess, Hina. Depending on the amount of rain, the waterfall sometimes descends at a trickle or it could be gushing over the edge with many ribbons after a storm.
You May Like
More adventures around the island

Volcano
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Explore some of the most unique landscapes in the world

Hamakua Coast
‘Akaka Falls
Take an easy hike to this 442 foot gusher

Hamakua Coast
Waipi‘o Valley Lookout
Breathtaking views at the Valley of the Kings

North Kohala
Pololū Valley & Lookout
A rewarding and accessible hike in North Kohala

Hamakua Coast
Umauma Falls Deluxe ATV Tour
An adrenaline-filled excuse to get dirty!

Hamakua Coast
Umauma Falls Zipline Tour
Zip over lava tubes and waterfalls across 9 lines

Hawai‘i Island
Maunakea Summit & Stars
Enjoy breathtaking views of the night sky atop Maunakea

North Kohala
Kohala Zip & Dip
Zipline across stunning views and waterfalls

Kona Coast
Kealakekua Snorkel Tour
Explore Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument