Attractions In Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo, Hawaii is a city located on the Big Island of Hawai’i and is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the entire state. Hilo is known for its spectacular natural beauty, as well as its vibrant culture, bustling harbor, and diverse attractions. The city is perhaps most famous for its stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Rainbow Falls, located just a few miles from downtown Hilo. Other popular attractions in the area include the stunning beaches of Wailoa State Park, the black sand beach at Pohoiki, and the volcanic crater of Mauna Loa.

Hilo was once a small fishing village and the capital of the Kingdom of Hawai’i in the 19th century. The city has a rich history and culture that can be explored through its many museums and historic sites. Today, Hilo has grown into a bustling city with a population of over 44,000 people. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty, sample delicious local cuisine, and experience a unique culture.

History of Hilo

The area that is now known as Hilo was first settled by Polynesian settlers around 500 AD. The original inhabitants of the area were the Menehune, a race of mythical little people who were believed to have built temples and fishponds throughout Hawaii. While it’s unclear exactly when Hilo was first settled by humans, it was likely sometime in the 16th century.

In the 19th century, Hilo was a small fishing village and the capital of the Kingdom of Hawai’i. In 1881, King Kalakaua declared Hilo as Hawaii’s official capital, but this was later moved to Honolulu in 1845. During this time, Hilo was an important port and trading center for the sugar industry. In 1946, Hilo was hit by a massive tsunami that destroyed much of the city and killed 159 people. The city was rebuilt and has since become an important tourist destination.

Things To Do in Hilo

Hilo is home to a wide variety of attractions that are sure to appeal to every type of traveler. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Hilo:

Rainbow Falls

No visit to Hilo is complete without a visit to Rainbow Falls. The 80-foot waterfall is located on the Wailuku River and is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Rainbow Falls gets its name from the rainbow that appears when the sun shines through the mist of the waterfall. The falls are accessible via a short hike from downtown Hilo and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Pana’ewa Zoo & Gardens

The Pana’ewa Zoo & Gardens is a 12-acre zoo located just outside of downtown Hilo. It’s home to a variety of animals including giraffes, tigers, monkeys, and more. Visitors can explore the zoo on foot or take a tram ride to get a closer look at some of the animals. The zoo also features a tropical garden with exotic plants and flowers as well as picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa is an active volcano located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Visitors can explore the volcano via guided tours that take them up to the summit for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors should also take some time to explore Thurston Lava Tube and explore the unique volcanic formations inside it.

Wailoa State Park

Wailoa State Park is a beautiful park that’s located on Hilo Bay. It’s home to a variety of activities including swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the calm waters of Wailoa River. Visitors can also explore Mokuoloe Island, which is an ancient Hawaiian fishing village located within the park. There are also several hiking trails in the park that offer stunning views of the bay and surrounding landscape.

Pohoiki Beach

Pohoiki Beach is a stunning black sand beach located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai’i. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the area and offers visitors a chance to relax on its soft black sand and swim in its calm waters. Visitors can also explore nearby tide pools or take part in scuba diving or snorkeling activities in the area.

Imiloa Astronomy Center

The Imiloa Astronomy Center is located just outside of downtown Hilo and is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The center is home to interactive exhibits about Hawaiian culture and astronomy as well as several planetarium shows that explore Hawaiian culture and astronomy through music, art, and storytelling.

Tours in Hilo

Hilo offers several tours that are sure to please all types of travelers. Here are two popular tours in the area:

Big Island Circle Island Tour

The Big Island Circle Island Tour is a full-day tour that takes visitors around the entire island of Hawai’i including stops at some of Hilo’s most famous attractions like Rainbow Falls, Wailoa State Park, Kilauea Volcano, and Mauna Loa Volcano. The tour also includes stops at several other local attractions including coffee plantations, waterfalls, beaches, and more. Book this tour for an unforgettable experience!

Big Island Waterfalls & Rainforest Adventure Tour

The Big Island Waterfalls & Rainforest Adventure Tour is another full-day tour that takes visitors on an adventure through some of Hawaii’s most stunning rainforests and waterfalls. The tour includes stops at Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots Park, Pana’ewa Zoo & Gardens, and more. Book this tour for an unforgettable experience!

Conclusion

Hilo is an incredible destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience no matter what they’re looking for. From stunning waterfalls to vibrant culture and diverse attractions, there’s something for everyone in Hilo. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’re sure to find it in Hilo!