Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls
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Waterfalls located on the big island of Hawaii.
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104 within 5 kms
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69 within 10 kms
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- Russell3939Castle Rock, Colorado796 contributionsUnderwhelmingI’m sure when it has just rained this waterfall really pumps. We found it underwhelming. They also have the access above the falls closed off. Make sure to go on a day after it rains or while it is raining. Wasn’t that impressed.Visited January 2023Travelled with familyWritten 2 January 2023
- Nancy CHilo, Hawaii12 contributionsBeautiful waterfall!Best to visit in the morning if you want to see the rainbow in the mist. I live near this set of falls, and I never get tired of paying an occasional visit, listen to the roar and enjoy the serenity. Fun to see after a bought of rain - quite the gusher! Easy parking, very short walk. Great little outing along with Boiling Pots and Kaumana Caves since they are so close to each other.Visited January 2023Written 18 January 2023
- Chandra STexas138 contributionsBeautiful Waterfall!!Our family of five from Texas and Oklahoma visited Oahu and the Big Island for Spring Break! The waterfall and area is Amazing!! I love waterfalls and this one did not disappoint. You do not have to hike to this one, right at the parking! It was very cloudy the day we visited so no rainbow.. The only negative I have is there was a lady while we were there that was climbing all over the rocks right by the water so we could not get good pictures for a while. She was on the rocks for quite some time… People were yelling at her to get back and I noticed some people were downright mad that she was out there! I do not blame them! Then on our way home from our trip, I read about a man that fell and had to be rescued by helicopter and is seriously injured and this accident happened 2 days after we had visited!! Not sure why people try this stuff, they are only going to ruin it for future guests as they will not be able to visit at all if they block the falls from everyone! Would definitely recommend this waterfall to everyone!!Visited March 2023Travelled with familyWritten 20 March 2023
- SHIRLEY S40 contributionsA beautiful waterfall on the Big IslandThe ONLY reason I give Rainbow Falls 4 stars is because of it's close proximity to the parking lot - otherwise I would have given it 5 stars. Somehow, hanging out by a beautiful Hawaiian waterfall loses some of it's aloha being so close to massive tour buses and taxi cabs constantly driving in and out, transporting people to this gem. Granted, I came on a bus myself... but there was no adventurous hike thru a rain forest to take you to this oasis - simply get off your bus and boom - there it is, right on the other side of a metal hand rail. If you can shut out all the people lining up to take selfies by the waterfall (like me) and ignore the busy parking lot, it is beautiful place to be.Visited January 2023Written 10 May 2023
- RavenitoCharlotte, North Carolina494 contributionsDefinitely worth seeing while you're in HiloNot much to say, it's a really beautiful waterfall that is easily accessible from the parking lot. There is a trail you can follow for a little bit further upriver to another water fall and other stuff but I didn't have time to do more than see Rainbow Falls. Thankfully it had been raining quite a lot recently so the falls really had quite a lot of water flowing down, making for a nice view. It's free, easy to get to, there's free parking, and it's right there in hilo, what else could you want?Visited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 June 2023
- Brian DDenver, Colorado2,393 contributionsGorgeous Waterfalls - Great Location - Easy Access - Fantastic SceneryIf you are visiting the Hilo area, don't pass on this destination stop. Accessing the falls is very easy and doesn't require any real exercise or effort. The scenery around the falls is incredible and breathtaking. The falls themselves are worth the price of admission (which is, actually, free!). Parking is free, and the only issue might be finding a parking spot, as this is a popular destination. Patience pays off and don't forget what is waiting for you ounce you are parked. There is a path to a nice overlook to the falls. you can also take a staircase on the opposite side of the falls to get a closer look. If you enjoy taking pictures, this is a not-to-be-missed stop on your Hawaii sightseeing tour. These falls are part of the Wailuku River State Park and you'll find signage explaining the history of this area, and how it became a state park.Visited April 2023Written 10 July 2023
- Melly Mel25 contributionsA Must SeeStopped by on the way to the volcano nat'l park. Easy to find. Parking is right in front. There are clean restrooms. The waterfall is gorgeous, but not swimmable. There is a beautiful banyan tree that is a must see as well. Great spot for some pics. It was drizzling, so we didn't get to see the rainbow.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 26 July 2023
- freutmich783 contributionsBeautiful Waterfall; Jam-Packed Parking LotEveryone I know who has ever been to Hilo included Rainbow Falls on their must-see list. Luckily, it's really close to downtown and it's easily accessible. When my family arrived, though, the parking lot was packed. I mean . . . there was a line out into the road. People were waiting, and as one car left someone new could pull in. Once we managed to park, we joined the crowd in looking at the falls. It really is a beautiful waterfall. There's also a stairway built into the landscape that takes you up above and behind the falls into an area filled with banyan trees. If you can stomach the crowds, Rainbow Falls is definitely worth a stop.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 2 August 2023
- County-HunterTacoma, Washington3,176 contributionsEasy to visit.I'm an older guy and am starting to slow down so I'm not interested in hiking for miles through the jungle to spot a waterfall. Rainbow Falls makes it easy to visit. It is only a few miles away from downtown Hilo and there was plenty of parking when we visited although the lot could be full in the morning when the light hits the water droplets just right to Bri g out the rainbows. There was a short walk to a viewing platform and an easy climb with handrails up to the top of the Falls. And since we didn't have to hike, we had time to do more things in Hilo.Visited August 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 August 2023
- TripFan045368 contributionsPretty waterfallsA good stop if you are in the Hilo area. I wish it had been sunnier when we went and I also wish that you could get a little closer to the falls but it is well fenced off. The vegetation and tree around it are cool and it is a pretty place.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 30 November 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.0
3,971 reviews
Excellent
1,667
Very good
1,503
Average
694
Poor
82
Terrible
26
Curious12814737449
2 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
Falls,fantastic David the guide knowledgeable in all areas. His demeanor. He was very enjoyable throughout the trip
Written 5 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chickabeegrrl
Elk Grove, CA2,066 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
The Rainbow Falls is right off the parking lot so super easy access. When the trail is open on the left side, go up the hill to see the top of the falls and where all that water comes from. This is a really great place for photos. If you’re here on a sunny day you should be able to see some rainbows. Free parking and access to restrooms.
Written 4 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tammy H
2 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Beautiful stop during our visit. The parking is very limited, however. We had to park on the side of the road.
Written 3 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TripFan045
Dallas, Texas368 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
A good stop if you are in the Hilo area. I wish it had been sunnier when we went and I also wish that you could get a little closer to the falls but it is well fenced off. The vegetation and tree around it are cool and it is a pretty place.
Written 30 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
smhr
Pickering, Canada277 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Not an exciting place. You can skip it without any regrets if you are short of time. IF you do go, you will be done in 15 mins.
A better nature view is a tree behind the falls. For the tree, you will need to go up the stairs next to the falls.
There is no parking or entrance fees
A better nature view is a tree behind the falls. For the tree, you will need to go up the stairs next to the falls.
There is no parking or entrance fees
Written 15 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike P
Anchorage, AK1,743 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
There is a handicap accessible picturesque overlook of Rainbow Falls. There is ample free parking, a grassy area for picnics and a restroom. Access to the big banyan tree is up an uneven stairway of rocks however, along the road, there is easy access.
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeremy C
Atlanta, GA870 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
A gorgeous waterfall that is one of the nicest on the island. It's a short and easy walk to the waterfall, but it's also worth taking the slightly steep trail past the waterfall to see an umpressive grove of huge trees.
Written 23 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
beachmark9
Myrtle Beach, SC2 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
It was good, and very glad there is access for wheelchair vs another one up the coast for pay and loads of steps.
Written 24 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jennlk
Roanoke, VA99 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
If you only have time for one waterfall visit in Hilo I would do this one. It’s free and just as pretty as Akaka Falls in my opinion. Plenty of parking and easy to get to for elderly people, or people who can’t do all the stairs at Akaka Falls.
Written 16 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AMBER D
Las Vegas, NV18 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
My husband & I enjoyed exploring Rainbow Falls! Absolutely beautiful! Quick and easy walk up to the top where a banyan grove welcomes you with so very many aerial roots!
Written 5 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AAALYNN
13 contributions
What’s the best time of day? I’ve heard early mornings are best for rainbow viewing?
Stitchnfix
Chicago, IL23 contributions
Morning but the parking lot is now open again as of end of April 2021
oneffonern
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Is there a restroom at rainbow falls?
Cori M
Las Vegas, NV29 contributions
Yes
I am going to Hilo in May, so what time at the latest should I reach Rainbow Falls to see the rainbows?
james628
Blairsville, GA837 contributions
We were there about 3:00pm in the afternoon and it was very good. The parking lot is small and can be a challenge. We waited for someone else to leave before we could park but it was not too long. Plan on spending about 30 minutes here.
bengeoros
Eumundi, Australia4 contributions
Hello Carolyn! Can you please tell me if this is within walking distance of the wharf where the cruise ships dock?
ladyinthehills
Hendersonville, NC37 contributions
No, way too far for most people.
boeschsusan
Justin, TX
We are planning in August to spend a week in Oahu but want to take a day trip to the big island to see the volcano and the Rainbow Falls be we would like to do this on our own not with a tour group is this possible? Any suggestions????
Patricia W
Vineland, NJ31 contributions
We were on a tour bus but you can easily rent a car and drive to the sights.
SuePhoenix
Phoenix, AZ341 contributions
Hummmm, I thought Rainbow Falls were on the Big Island. And Hana is on Maui?
JimmyandJen B
Las Vegas, NV56 contributions
You are correct on both accounts.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rainbow Falls
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Rainbow Falls:
- Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights (From ₹ 12,776.20)
- Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History (From ₹ 18,910.18)
- Shore Excursion: Hawaii Volcano Adventure Tour from Hilo (From ₹ 16,329.78)
- Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours (From ₹ 2,498.75)
- Big Island Tour : Hilo Tour with Waterfall (From ₹ 15,829.86)
- Hotels near Rainbow Falls:
- (0.30 km) The Old Hawaiian B&B
- (2.62 km) Hilo Honu Inn Bed and Breakfast
- (1.70 km) The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
- (0.76 km) Lopaka's Family Lodge in Hilo
- (0.72 km) Hilo - Lopaka's Family Lodge - Hilo Walk to Boiling Pots
- Restaurants near Rainbow Falls:
- (0.92 km) Papa'a Palaoa Bakery
- (3.58 km) Moon and Turtle
- (3.80 km) Paul's Place
- (3.78 km) Two Ladies Kitchen
- (3.63 km) Pineapple's Island Fresh Cuisine
- Attractions near Rainbow Falls:
- (0.00 km) Wai'ale falls
- (0.00 km) Wailuku River State Park
- (1.70 km) Kulaniapia Falls
- (0.74 km) Native Hawaiian Lava
- (3.08 km) Lavaloha