Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge) - Image 1
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Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge)

4.5
·49 reviews·Haleiwa, United States

Iconic double-arched bridge in Haleiwa, Oahu, spanning the Anahulu Stream and offering scenic views and local activities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge) - Image 1

Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge)

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic double-arched bridge in Haleiwa, Oahu, spanning the Anahulu Stream and offering scenic views and local activities.

4.5
(49 reviews)

"Locals and visitors alike enjoy jumping off this bridge into the river below."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Arches

The bridge's double arches are a photographer's dream! Get creative with angles .

🛶 Paddle the River

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Anahulu Stream and go under the bridge .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge)

Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge)

Haleiwa Town, North Shore

Iconic double-arched bridge, a beloved symbol of Haleiwa, perfect for photos and local activities.

Anahulu Stream

Anahulu Stream

Beneath the Anahulu Bridge

A freshwater river popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, and even spotting sea turtles.

Kamehameha Highway Drive

Kamehameha Highway Drive

Oahu's North Shore

A breathtaking coastal drive offering stunning mountain and ocean vistas, rich in history.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic Drive

The Anahulu Bridge is best experienced as part of a scenic drive along Kamehameha Highway. Plan for potential traffic, especially on weekends, and allow ample time to stop and soak in the coastal views. Many visitors highlight the beauty of this route.TikTok+2

Respect the Local Environment

While the Anahulu Bridge is a popular spot for activities like bridge jumping and paddleboarding, be mindful of litter. Some visitors report overflowing trash cans and a lack of cleanliness, urging others to help keep the area pristine.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively local scene
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Driving Kamehameha Hwy on O’ahu is an expierience on its own #hawaii #oahu #oahuhawaii #kamehameha #kamehamehahighway #hawaiitiktok #hawaiitok #hawaiianaloha #vacation #bucketlist #bucketlisttravel #fyp
@saguarolady
374 likes • 11.5K views

📸 Capture the Arches

The bridge's double arches are a photographer's dream! Get creative with angles.Instagram

🛶 Paddle the River

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Anahulu Stream and go under the bridge.InstagramReddit

Highways don’t look like this everywhere… #hawaii #hawaiitiktok #oahu
@chicks_and_travels
92 likes • 1.3K views
Anahulu bridge #rainbow #rainbowbridge #northshore #oahu #hawaii #frontflip #backflip #gainer #bridgejumping #summer #vacation #sendit
giuliano.100
625 likes • 8.9K views

🦘 Jump for Fun

Locals and visitors alike enjoy jumping off the bridge into the river below.InstagramReddit

🐢 Turtle Spotting

Keep an eye out for sea turtles in the Anahulu River, especially in the evenings.Instagram

A famous landmark in Haleiwa is the Anahulu Stream or Rainbow Bridge built in 1921. 🌈 Check out this spot during our Grand Circle Island Tour stop at this charming town on Oahu’s North Shore. #RoyalStarHI #Tripadvisor #TravelersChoice #GrandCircleIslandTour #Haleiwa #NorthShore #AnahuluStreamBridge #Honolulu #Waikiki #Oahu #Hawaii #Aloha #LuckyWeLiveHawaii #ThingsToDoInHawaii #HawaiiTravel #Hawai...
royalstarhawaii
21 likes • 542 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Arches

The bridge's double arches are a photographer's dream! Get creative with angles.Instagram

🛶 Paddle the River

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Anahulu Stream and go under the bridge.InstagramReddit

🦘 Jump for Fun

Locals and visitors alike enjoy jumping off the bridge into the river below.InstagramReddit

🐢 Turtle Spotting

Keep an eye out for sea turtles in the Anahulu River, especially in the evenings.Instagram

🚗 Scenic Drive Essential

Incorporate this into a drive along Kamehameha Highway for stunning coastal views.TikTok+1

🗑️ Pack Out Your Trash

Help keep the area clean by taking all your trash with you.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(49 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Anahulu Bridge is a beloved landmark on Oahu's North Shore, celebrated for its iconic double arches and the vibrant activities it hosts on the Anahulu Stream, from paddleboarding to bridge jumping. However, some visitors are disappointed by the presence of litter and overflowing trash cans, which detract from the natural beauty.

"This iconic spot along Oahu’s North Shore is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Watch paddle boarders glide by, kids leap off the bridge into the water, or cast a line and enjoy some quiet fishing.

Unfortunately, the experience is often marred by litter left behind by both visitors and locals who don’t clean up after themselves. In one instance, we even witnessed someone toss an empty drink can into the river—then aggressively confront anyone who spoke up.

While trash cans are available, they’re often overflowing and appear to go unemptied for weeks, which only worsens the problem."

Sean Owens

"Look like a gathering place for fun where participants jump off the bridge, sometimes to bomb the paddle board goers, especially if they are girls and jumpers are boys. There is a kayak, paddle board rental by the river bank. Parking is off road. There is a small boat harbor nearby. There are pedestrian sidewalks on the bridge."

qlv assoc

"Kamehameha Highway Bridge (Anahulu Stream) at Haleʻiwa Town
Walk over bridge and have a look at Joe’s Seafood on one side and a few shops and park on the other. The stream under the bridge is popular for canoeing.
#KamehamehaHighwayBridge
#NorthShoreOahu"

Pandy Dimitrios

What People Like

Iconic bridge architecture
Fun water activities
Scenic highway drive

What People Dislike

Litter and trash issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Anahulu Bridge, also known as the Rainbow Bridge, is located in Haleiwa Town on Oahu's North Shore. The most popular way to reach it is by driving along Kamehameha Highway (HI-83). Many visitors combine a visit to the bridge with a scenic road trip around the island.TikTok+1 Parking is available off-road near the bridge and stream.Reddit

Absolutely! Kamehameha Highway is renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, lush mountains, and ocean vistas. It's a quintessential Oahu driving experience that many travelers rave about.TikTok+2

Haleiwa Town is best explored on foot or by bike after parking your car. The Anahulu Bridge is a central landmark, and you can easily walk across it to access shops and the riverbanks.Reddit

Yes, TheBus operates routes that can take you to Haleiwa Town. Route 60 (Circle Island) is a common option, though it can be a longer journey. Check TheBus website for current schedules and routes.

Parking is available off-road near the Anahulu Stream and bridge. During peak times, especially on weekends, parking can become limited, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets or admission fees required to visit the Anahulu Bridge or walk across it. It's a public landmark accessible to everyone.Instagram

The Anahulu Bridge is a public bridge and is accessible 24/7. However, activities like paddleboarding and swimming are best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety.

There are no entrance fees for the Anahulu Stream itself. Rental costs apply if you wish to rent kayaks or paddleboards.Instagram

While you can technically drive or walk across the bridge at night, it's not recommended for activities like swimming or jumping due to safety concerns. Some people do enjoy the ambiance of the bridge at night.Instagram

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends tend to be busier with locals and tourists enjoying the bridge and stream.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular activities include walking or driving across the bridge, bridge jumping into the Anahulu Stream, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and spotting sea turtles.InstagramReddit+2

The Anahulu Stream is a freshwater river and is generally safe for swimming and jumping, especially for locals who are familiar with it. However, always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.InstagramReddit

Yes, there are rental services available by the riverbank for paddleboards and kayaks, allowing you to explore the Anahulu Stream.Reddit

The Anahulu Bridge, also known as the Rainbow Bridge, was built in 1921 and replaced an older wooden structure. Its distinctive double arches make it a recognizable symbol of Haleiwa Town.Instagram+1

While there are trash cans available, some visitors have noted they can be overflowing, suggesting a need for better waste management. Public restrooms might be limited, so plan accordingly.

📸 📸 Photography

The bridge itself, with its iconic double arches, is a prime subject. Capture it from different angles, including from the riverbanks or while on the water.Instagram+2 The surrounding coastal scenery along Kamehameha Highway also offers fantastic photo opportunities.TikTok+1

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the bridge and the surrounding landscape. Sunrise can also offer a serene and less crowded experience.TikTok

Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local restrictions. Always check current rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.

You can get great shots from the pedestrian sidewalks on the bridge itself, from the riverbanks, or from the water if you're paddleboarding or kayaking.Reddit

Many visitors capture the bridge's architecture, the vibrant blue of the ocean and sky, and the action of people jumping or paddleboarding.Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Anahulu Bridge and Stream offer a fantastic family-friendly experience. Kids will love the excitement of bridge jumping into the freshwater stream, a popular local pastime.InstagramReddit Renting kayaks or paddleboards provides a fun way for the whole family to explore the calm waters of the Anahulu River together.InstagramReddit It's a great spot for a picnic, but remember to pack out all trash to keep the area clean for everyone.Reddit The scenic drive along Kamehameha Highway leading to Haleiwa also offers plenty of opportunities for memorable family photos.TikTok

🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers

For those who love a good road trip, driving Kamehameha Highway is a must-do. The Anahulu Bridge is a picturesque stop along this route, offering stunning views and a chance to experience local life.TikTok+1 Plan to take your time, pull over at scenic lookouts, and enjoy the coastal scenery.TikTok The bridge itself is a beautiful architectural feature, and the surrounding landscape provides ample photo opportunities.TikTokInstagram Consider combining this with a visit to other North Shore attractions for a full day of exploration.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

The Anahulu Bridge, with its iconic double arches, is a dream for photographers.Instagram+1 Capture the bridge from various angles, especially during the golden hour for dramatic lighting.TikTok The Anahulu Stream offers unique perspectives, whether you're on a paddleboard or capturing the action of bridge jumpers.Instagram+1 Don't forget the broader scenic beauty of Kamehameha Highway, which provides a stunning backdrop for any shot.TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Haleiwa and the Anahulu Bridge

The Anahulu Bridge, affectionately known as the 'Rainbow Bridge' due to its distinctive double arches, is more than just a crossing; it's a cultural icon in the historic surf town of Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore.Instagram+1 Built in 1921, it replaced an older wooden structure and has since become a beloved landmark, symbolizing the town's laid-back charm and rich history. The bridge spans the Anahulu Stream, a freshwater river that flows into the ocean, creating a unique ecosystem and a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike.

The Anahulu Stream itself is a hub of activity. It's a prime location for paddleboarding and kayaking, offering a chance to glide under the iconic bridge and experience the serene beauty of the river.InstagramReddit Many visitors also enjoy the thrill of jumping off the bridge into the cool waters below, a tradition cherished by those who grew up in the area.InstagramReddit For nature enthusiasts, the stream is also known for being a habitat for sea turtles, which can often be spotted, especially in the evenings.Instagram

Beyond the bridge and the stream, Haleiwa Town offers a delightful escape with its charming boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries. The Anahulu Bridge serves as a gateway to this vibrant community, making it a must-see on any North Shore itinerary. While the area is beautiful, it's important to be mindful of the environment and help keep it clean, as some visitors have noted issues with litter.Reddit

Driving Kamehameha Highway: A Scenic Adventure

The Anahulu Bridge is a highlight along the legendary Kamehameha Highway, a route that encapsulates the stunning natural beauty of Oahu's windward and north shores.TikTok+1 This iconic highway, named after King Kamehameha I, the unifier of the Hawaiian Islands, offers a journey through diverse landscapes, from dramatic cliffs and lush valleys to pristine beaches and charming coastal towns like Haleiwa.TikTok+1

As you drive along Kamehameha Highway, expect panoramic ocean views, dramatic mountain backdrops, and the constant allure of the Pacific. The road itself is an experience, with many travelers sharing their joy in the scenic drives, the ocean breezes, and the overall 'vibe' of the journey.TikTok+2 It's a route that invites spontaneous stops to admire the scenery, take photos, or simply soak in the Hawaiian atmosphere.TikTok

Whether you're heading to the North Shore's famous surf spots or exploring the island's less-traveled paths, Kamehameha Highway provides an unforgettable backdrop. The Anahulu Bridge is a perfect point to pause and appreciate the blend of natural beauty and local culture that defines this part of Oahu.TikTok

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