Hawaii's Stunning Bridge In The Heart Of Haleiwa Is Situated On A Pristine River With Photogenic Beauty

Say Hawaii and you say stunning natural landscapes, pristine turquoise waters, and coastal gems brimming with ocean views, dolphin watching, and unforgettable snorkelling tours. As an island nation, it is no surprise that so much of Hawaii revolves around its waters. While popular spots like the capital, Honolulu, have attracted resort-crazed visitors and adventurers in the millions, going off the beaten track offers the reward of less crowded spots.

Word is out about Haleiwa's Rainbow Bridge for good reason: This spot on Oahu's North Shore is not only a postcard-perfect location, but one that offers a wide variety of activities on the pristine shores of the Anahulu River. If gentle paddling, chasing photo opportunities, or even jumping into the river take your fancy, the 30-mile drive from Waikiki to the northern community of Haleiwa is well worth it.

Hawaii has its share of thrilling bridge-based experiences, including the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, where you can wobble your way from one end to the other, and the Hanauma Bay Rock Bridge on the southeastern side of the island, with its enchanting trail along the mountainous coast of Oahu. While they are bucket list experiences for some, the Hanapepe and Hanauma Bay bridge trails are not for everyone. Luckily, the Rainbow Bridge tops the charts for everyday travellers who are after a more laid-back (and less adrenaline-filled) experience with outstanding island views.

Hawaii is a treasure trove of rich historical traditions, something the best museums in the state celebrate by bringing island history and culture to life. But some things are best enjoyed outside of the white walls of a museum or art gallery, and the Rainbow Bridge in Haleiwa is one of them.

Officially named the Kamehameha Highway Bridge No. 603, this scenic passage over the Anahulu stream has come to be known as simply the "Rainbow Bridge," a nickname affectionately given by local surfers in the 1950s. On a sunny day, as the sun gleams on the concrete double arches, you can see what inspired the nickname that's stuck to this day on this landmark that's over 100 years old. The concrete bridge you see today was built in 1921 to replace a wooden bridge connecting the hotel and town, facing each other on the Anahulu. 

After many implementations and restorations to keep its iconic arches unaffected by external factors (like oxidation), the bridge now has two lanes open to traffic of vehicles big and small. In time, the Rainbow Bridge came to be associated less with its boost to the town's development and more with local kids and visitors alike who keep ignoring the "no jumping" sign on the bridge and instead partake in the popular activity of leaping into the refreshing waters below.

There is a reason why the Rainbow Bridge is renowned as a water-based playground. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide on the freshwater stream, or immerse yourself in the scenery and swim from point to point. The best way to do the latter is, well, by following local customs and jumping from the bridge directly into the water — a very common practice you will see local kids following around the clock. You can also take advantage of various ropes tied around trees along the stream and swing into the water.

Leaping from the Rainbow Bridge into the calm river waters below is not for everyone. If you want to enjoy this unique escapade while remaining on dry land, walking on the narrow bridge is an experience in and of itself – often letting cars or large vehicles pass as you wiggle your way to the other side. While you can enjoy brilliant views from the bridge itself, head to the Haleiwa Harbor to snap that perfect shot and capture the spectacular views of the Anahulu as it snakes its way under the double arches of the Rainbow Bridge and into the bay.

Zooming out from this historic bridge, Haleiwa itself is a hotspot of arts, culture, and social life on the North Shore. Surfers of all ages and skills can be spotted in Pua'ena Point, while Waimea Bay is left to those braving the "mammoth" waves reaching up to 20 feet that the site is famous for. Surfing, plunging, and paddling are only some of the activities you can enjoy in and around Haleiwa, and if you are planning your off-the-beaten-path trip to Hawaii, considering attractions perfect for a winter trip may just be the way to unlock unique experiences in the Aloha State.