Boiling Pots
Witness the Wailuku River churn and bubble through lava tubes, creating a mesmerizing 'boiling' effect. A unique natural wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the 'boiling' effect
Boiling Pots
Best Time
Witness the 'boiling' effect
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the Wailuku River churn and bubble through lava tubes, creating a mesmerizing 'boiling' effect. A unique natural wonder.
"Amazing sounds of Mother Nature and a clean, nice place to visit."
⚠️ Safety First!
Never swim or jump during or after rain. River currents can be dangerous. ⚠️
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture the unique 'boiling' action and layered falls. Best light is often mid-morning. :camerawithflash:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 118 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Boiling' River
Wailuku River
Witness the unique phenomenon of water churning and bubbling through lava rock formations, creating a 'boiling' effect.
Layered Waterfalls
Main viewing area
Admire multiple waterfalls cascading over distinct, layered rock formations in a single, scenic spot.
Scenic Viewing Platform
Near the parking area
An easily accessible platform offers stunning views of the river and falls, perfect for a quick photo stop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Combine Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Safety First!
Never swim or jump during or after rain. River currents can be dangerous. ⚠️
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture the unique 'boiling' action and layered falls. Best light is often mid-morning. :camerawithflash:
Waterfalls on the Big Island
Aloha! Hope everyone here is having a great day :D I am on the big island for a couple weeks for the first time in my life, wow what a paradise you guys have here! Unbelievable beauty every single way you look! I wanted to ask you guys if you know of any water falls / cliff…
Is end of the world the best spot for cliff jumping?
Been to a couple smaller spots inland on the north side, but I heard end of the world is pretty big?
Combine with Rainbow Falls
Boiling Pots is a quick stop; pair it with nearby Rainbow Falls for a fuller experience. :world_map:
Clean Facilities
Restrooms are available and generally clean, though not modern. 🚽
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Safety First!
Never swim or jump during or after rain. River currents can be dangerous. ⚠️
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
Capture the unique 'boiling' action and layered falls. Best light is often mid-morning. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Rainbow Falls
Boiling Pots is a quick stop; pair it with nearby Rainbow Falls for a fuller experience. :world_map:
Clean Facilities
Restrooms are available and generally clean, though not modern. 🚽
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Boiling Pots to be a scenic and interesting stop, particularly appreciating the unique 'boiling' river phenomenon and the layered waterfalls. It's often described as a worthwhile, brief visit, especially when combined with other Hilo attractions. Some find it a bit 'drive-up and look' but acknowledge the natural beauty.
"Combine a visit here with a trip to Rainbow Falls and other Hilo activities such as a visit to the Lyman Museum. This is a scenic point and most active after rainfall. It’s worth a brief stop to view."
B Shelp
"Very accessible. Restrooms are not an issue."
Asian Parrothead
"Beautiful area. Very interesting layered poles with a falls at the head. Bathrooms are accessable and clean, though not very up to date. Only complaint is that it's just a drive up, look and drive away. Pretty lame for a site so amazing."
Daniel McClure
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boiling Pots is located on the Wailuku River, just a short drive from Hilo. Take Highway 19 north, and you'll see signs for the park. It's easily accessible by car and often visited as part of a Hilo waterfall tour.
Yes, there is a parking area available near the viewing platform, making it very accessible for visitors arriving by car.
While it's a short drive from Hilo, walking is not recommended due to the distance and lack of pedestrian pathways along the highway. Driving is the most practical option. 🚗
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Boiling Pots is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to visit and enjoy the natural scenery. 🆓
Boiling Pots is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check local park advisories for any temporary closures or changes. :clock1:
The main viewing platform is accessible, offering good views without strenuous hiking. Restrooms are also available on-site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The 'boiling' effect occurs when the river's strong currents force water through a series of underwater lava tubes and holes, creating a churning, bubbling appearance, especially after rainfall.
Swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents and unpredictable water levels. The site is for viewing only. Safety is paramount.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour at Boiling Pots, enjoying the views and taking photos. It's often combined with other nearby attractions.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there might be short, paved paths. Bring a light jacket as it can be breezy, and consider insect repellent. :athletic_shoe:
Yes, restrooms are available at the site. They are generally clean but may not be very modern. 🚽
📸 📸 Photography
Mid-morning often provides good light for capturing the 'boiling' effect and the layered waterfalls. Early morning can also be beautiful with fewer people. :camerawithflash:
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you want to capture the water's movement, a tripod and a neutral density filter can help achieve silky smooth water effects. :iphone:
The main viewing platform offers excellent panoramic views. Exploring the short paved paths can lead to slightly different angles of the falls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit