Boiling Pots, Hawai’i Island
Hawaiʻi Island’s “Boiling Pots” is a natural phenomenon in which heavy rain causes the pools in Hilo’s Wailuku River, created from ancient basalt lava flow, to bubble and churn like a pot of boiling water. Visitors can view the attraction inside Wailuku River State Park via a manmade overlook, complete with protective railings and informational placards. It is one of Hilo’s most-visited sites, along with Rainbow Falls 1.7 miles downstream. According to Hawaiian mythology, this was the location of The Battle of Wailuku River between the demigod Maui and a moʻo, or giant lizard, who tormented Maui’s mother, Hina.
While Boiling Pots and Peʻpeʻe Falls (which means “hiding” in Hawaiian) are often used interchangeably, they are two separate geologic features adjacent to one another. You cannot get to Peʻpeʻe Falls from Boiling Pots, but you can see them upstream while you are standing on the viewing deck at Boiling Pots. If you are looking for more waterfalls and scenic views to add to the sites at Wailuku River State Park, I recommend ʻAkaka Falls and the lava tube at Kaūmana Caves. Or you can take a tour that includes all of these sites.
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At a Glance
- Location
- 1766 Wailuku Dr. – easily accessible by car
- Hours
- Open daily 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (gates lock at 6 p.m.)
- Best Known For
- Unique geologic features; important location in Hawaiian mythology
- Best For
- Travelers of any kind. Young children may get bored.
- Parking
- $10 per vehicle. Covers both Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls in Wailuku River State Park. There are about 30 parking spots, plenty for this quiet destination.
- Best time to go
- The morning is cooler and the best time to pair with Rainbow Falls.
- Admission Fee
- $5 per person.
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Amenities
- Picnic tables and grassy area for picnics
- Accessibility
- Viewing platform has a wheelchair ramp and hand railings and is just a few feet from the parking lot.
- Drive from Kailua-Kona
- 1.5 hours
- Drive from Downtown Hilo
- 10 minutes
How do I get to Boiling Pots?
From downtown Hilo, take Waianuenue Avenue about 3.5 miles. Turn left on Wailuku Drive into Wailuku River State Park.
What Causes Boiling Pots to “Boil?”
The volcanic history of the Hawaiian Island chain produces a variety of interesting geologic formations, many of which can be found on Hawai'i Island. Wailuku River is the longest river in Hawaiʻi, and it flows through Hilo, Hawaiʻi Island’s largest city.
This section of the river starts with Peʻpeʻe Falls to the north, then gently stretches downriver. Unlike Rainbow Falls, this section doesn’t change elevation dramatically; instead, it gradually flows downhill over a series of terraces. These terraces are filled with natural pools that are lined with vertical, hexagonal basalt columns that were created as lava flowed over the channel and cooled in the river bed.
When is the Best Time to Go?
To have the best chance of seeing the pots “boil,” visit right after a big rain, otherwise you’ll likely see the river gently flowing (which is still beautiful and serene). If you are pairing this with a visit to Rainbow Falls, I recommend arriving mid-morning for cooler temperatures and the best chance of seeing rainbows at the falls.
Can I swim at Boiling Pots?
While those pools may look welcoming, there is absolutely no swimming allowed in this section of the Wailuku River. Sudden flash flooding, hidden underwater caves and powerful undercurrents all make this part of the river unswimmable. According to a sign posted at the viewing area, between 1995 and 2024, 27 people have died by drowning.
Can I hike at Boiling Pots?
There are no designated hiking trails along the river, and the park is inside a residential area. You’ll need to stay within the park boundaries.
Is Boiling Pots Worth a Visit?
Though this attraction is fascinating, I wouldn’t necessarily make a special trip for it. There is not much to do beyond seeing the Boiling Pots, other than photography, having a picnic and letting the kids run around on the lawn. It’s worth it if you pair this with other things to do nearby.
Things to Do Nearby
Rainbow Falls — Also located in Wailuku River State Park. Most visitors pair this with Boiling Pots.
ʻAkaka Falls — About 25 minutes from Hilo. Featuring two waterfalls via a short, paved hike. $5 per person entry fee, $10 parking per vehicle.
Kaūmana Caves — A 2-mile long lava tube about a 7-minute drive from Boiling Pots.
Tiki Turtle Cafe — One of Hilo’s hidden gems and a favorite among residents who work in the area. Hearty plate lunches, daily specials and Dole Whip. In addition to the great food, the cafe is a vocational program for people with disabilities.
Roadside Stands — Unmanned bake stands are extremely popular on Hawai'i Island right now, and there’s a small, purple one just before the entrance to Boiling Pots. There are also an abundance of options if you head back towards Hilo Bay, including grab-and-go items from Hilo Farmers Market and a variety of restaurants.
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Freelance Writer · Hawaiʻi Island
Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku covers Hawaiʻi travel and lifestyle. Her rural home on Hawaiʻi Island serves as her base of operations for exploring the islands — sometimes with her ʻohana and sometimes on her own.
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