Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium - Hawaii Rainbow Wahine
- Chris Green
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71
Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium Kalele Rd Honolulu, HI 96822
Year Opened: 1985
Capacity: 1,200
Island Softball
Though many may think of Hawaii as a vacation paradise and less of a sports destination, the atmosphere at University of Hawaii athletics events seeks to change that, and Rainbow Wahine softball is no different. A facility that feels like the venues of yesteryear, while offering free admission, is the highlight here, and loyal fans are plentiful.
Food & Beverage 3
There is only one proper concession stand at Hawaii softball games, and its menu is accordingly limited. Hot dogs ($6), chili dogs ($7), chili bowls ($5.50), and a chili frank plate ($6) are the highlights, while other options include cheese nachos ($6), chili cheese nachos ($6.50), Enjoy snacks ($4.50), chips ($2.50), and candy ($2.50). Drinks include 20 oz bottled sodas and water for $4.50, and there is also a local vendor who sells Dippin’ Dots ice cream for $6 from a separate cart under the grandstands.
Atmosphere 4
The stadium itself is simple enough – the main seating area behind home plate features a roof to cover the seats and the small press areas. However, the support beams and dark aesthetic harken back to old stadiums from the beginning of baseball’s existence. The left and right field lines feature additional backless bleacher seating that is open to the elements, though netting protects all seats so you won’t have to worry about getting hit by a foul ball. The left field ramp from the ground level to the grandstand also offers an elevated look at the bullpen for the visiting team.
Right field features restrooms that are covered by large graphic walls featuring the team’s schedule, while along the back side of the main seating area are banners featuring star players from the team’s past, connecting the team to their past successes.
The biggest plus here is the view from Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium; the field orientation facing north means the outfield view is campus housing and the tropical foliage-covered foothills of the Ko’olau Mountains.
Neighborhood 4
The ballpark itself is located on the University of Hawaii campus, located just north of the popular Waikiki Beach area of Honolulu. Just a few miles from campus are the world-famous sandy beaches that have attracted visitors for hundreds of years, and you’re also not far from local restaurants, as well as chain favorites and hotels. To the east is Diamond Head State Monument, a popular hiking site, and beyond that are iconic shorelines of rocky cliffs.
Fans 4
The fans at Hawaii softball games are mostly locals, or friends and family of visiting teams. Being located in such a popular tourist city means that visiting teams will travel well thanks to fans wanting to make a whole trip out of watching their favorite team play in Hawaii. The fans here are also very sport-knowledgeable, and know when to cheer with each dramatic play on the field. On top of that, the free admission to games means many students come and go throughout the day, as gaps in their schedules permit between classes. This laid-back atmosphere also fits with the island vibe.
Access 3
The parking at Hawaii softball games is arguably the biggest struggle for this game day experience – the nearby Kalele Road Garage and UH Guest Parking Garage offer the best and closest options. Entry off nearby Dole Street or Kalele Road makes for easy in-and-out access; both of these are located right off the H1 Highway, making for easy driving if you’re staying nearby, or even if you are staying farther away.
Return on Investment 5
Tickets to Hawaii softball games are completely free. With affordable parking options nearby, you literally pay almost nothing for a game here, and getting to watch D1 NCAA Softball for free is a great reason to take in a game at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium.
Extras 3
The stadium is located across the street from both the baseball and football facilities at the University of Hawaii, while tennis plays their matches next door. This means visiting other sporting events on the same day is easy whenever multiple events are taking place.
Hawaii softball also offers giveaways at some games, including goodies for fans.
Finally, some games throughout the year are themed, meaning fans can get various experiences as they take in a game at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium.
Final Thoughts
Though most fans visiting Hawaii may not expect softball to be on their sports to-do list, missing this free admission show would be a mistake. Located in a beautiful part of campus, this simple yet enjoyable setting gives you everything you need as a sports fan to satisfy your needs when it comes to college softball.
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