Boiling Pots (Peʻepeʻe Falls)
Hilo, Hilo
A Chain of Basalt Pools and Cascades Above Hilo
Boiling Pots is the upper area of Wailuku River State Park, reached from Waiānuenue Avenue in Hilo at the end of Peʻepeʻe Falls Drive; Rainbow Falls is the lower area on Rainbow Drive. The state describes the Boiling Pots as a succession of big pools connected by underground flow or cascades, lined with hexagonal basalt columns. It is open daily 7 AM to 5:30 PM and the gates lock at 6 PM.
Non-residents pay $5 per person plus $10 per vehicle, by card; Hawaiʻi residents with ID and children 3 and under are free, and the state says one fee covers both Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls (updated January 16, 2026). The state page lists no swimming guidance and its hazard section did not render, so treat the pools as look-only and stay out of the river, especially after rain.
Why Roamwise recommends this
A short, scenic add-on to Rainbow Falls — one fee covers both.
Best for: a quick waterfall viewpoint, photography, pairing with Rainbow Falls and downtown Hilo.
Insider tip: keep to the overlooks and stay out of the water; rivers here can rise quickly after rain.
- Hazards / conditions:
- Fast-moving river and slippery rock; the state page lists no swimming guidance.
- Safety notes:
- The state's hazard section did not render; treat the pools as look-only. DLNR's 10/8/26 notices do not list this park as closed.
- Weather sensitivity:
- River levels can rise quickly after rain; stay out of the water.
- Cost:
- Non-residents: $5 per person plus $10 per vehicle; one fee also covers Rainbow Falls. Hawaiʻi residents are free. (checked October 2026)
Reviews: Google MapsYelp
Local tips
- •Non-residents $5 per person plus $10 per vehicle
- •one fee covers Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls.
- •Open daily 7 AM–5:30 PM
- •gates lock at 6 PM.
- •Stay out of the water, especially after rain.
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