Visit ʻAkaka Falls and Rainbow Falls
Your Scenic Big Island Adventure Involves Chasing Waterfalls
With its towering mountains, lush rainforests, and diverse climate zones, Hawaiʻi Island (otherwise known as the Big Island) is home to a legion of dazzling waterfalls. For travelers exploring the island’s natural highlights, some waterfalls have to be earned after long, strenuous hikes. Lucky for you, we have the scoop on two of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls and both are only a short stroll away from where you park. First, set your GPS to Hilo town, where you can spend the day exploring its sweet nooks and crannies, galleries, and restaurants.
Akaka Falls - What to Expect
Surrounded by thick rainforest, ʻAkaka Falls is everything you’d imagine a Hawaiian waterfall to be. The falls drop 422 feet into a stream-carved gorge covered with vibrant greenery. ‘Akaka means a rent, split, or separation, and it’s easy to see how the waterfall got its name. If you're lucky, you may spot brightly colored birds soaring in the gorge including Hawaiian Honeycreepers and Warbling White-eyes.
ʻAkaka Falls is located in the ʻAkaka Falls State Park, about 11 miles north of Hilo. A short 0.4 mile hike along the gentle ʻAkaka Loop Trail leads you to the falls themselves. Don’t rush to the waterfall and take your time walking through the rainforest filled with orchids, ferns, and swaying bamboo groves.
Along the trail you’ll find a small overlook that offers a glimpse of a second waterfall. Kahuna Falls is harder to see than ʻAkaka Falls as the cliff vegetation obscures the view. If there’s been a period of heavy rain, the increased water flow can make the falls more visible.
Rainbow Falls - What to Expect
If you’re coming through Hilo, Rainbow Falls is even easier to access than ʻAkaka. The falls are literally on the Wailuku River that runs through town. The Hawaiian name for Rainbow Falls is Waiānuenue, which translates to, “rainbow seen in water.” If you face the falls with the sun behind you, you may see rainbows playing in the spray – hence its namesake.
The falls themselves cascade 80 feet over a lava cave. The cave is said to be the home of Hina, the goddess of the moon who oversees creation and motherhood. Depending on recent rainfall, Rainbow Falls may be roaring with flood water or reduced to a subdued trickle.
After looking for rainbows at the viewing point, you can take a short hike to the top of Rainbow Falls. The trail runs along the left shoulder of the falls through groves of enormous banyan trees.
Best Times to Visit & Other Tips
We know early mornings can be rough but that’s going to be your best bet to see rainbows at Rainbow Falls and beat the crowds at ʻAkaka Falls, especially on a sunny day. If you’re here during the rainy season or after heavy rainfall, both waterfalls will be broader and fuller with more mist and power. Perfect for those postcard perfect photos.
Remember to stay on designated trails and paths for both falls and don’t venture into any unmarked vegetation.
How To Get to Akaka Falls
Take the ʻAkaka Falls Road (Hwy 220) north out of Hilo. After eleven miles the road ends at ʻAkaka State Park. Non-residents pay an admission to the park and it’s free for Hawaiʻi residents with a valid ID. The area is open between 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., but visitors should purchase entry and parking fees prior to arriving at the park as cell reception is limited in the area.
More info on Akaka Falls State Park
How to Get to Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is part of Wailuku River State Park which is also home to Peʻepeʻe Falls. Below Peʻepeʻe is a spot called Boiling Pots, where underground passages connect a series of large pools. While it may be tempting to take a dip in Boiling Pots, the roiling waters are dangerous and should be avoided.
The viewing areas for both Rainbow Falls and Peʻepeʻe are accessible from Waiānuenue Avenue by turning on Rainbow Drive and Peʻepeʻe Falls Drive.
Plan Your Stay on the Big Island
Where to stay to chase these waterfalls: hotels, resorts, and condos on Hawai’i Island
For more Hawai’i Island inspiration and travel tips, explore Why Choose Hawaiʻi Island? and Two Days on the Kona Coast.
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