How to Explore Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park from Hilo

Are you ready to experience the natural wonder of Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park? This driving tour is the perfect opportunity to discover the park’s highlights, including the steam vents and Kilauea Caldera overlook, without worrying about transportation. With stress-free pickup from the Hilo port, this tour allows you to see some of the Big Island’s top sights in just a few hours.

Overview of the Tour

This tour includes transportation to and from Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park, allowing you to avoid the hassle of finding your way there on your own. The tour departs from the Hilo port at 8:00 AM, and the first stop is the Liliuokalani Gardens. This stunning 30-acre Japanese garden is located on the banks of Hilo Bay and offers a tranquil escape from the busy city. Next, the tour stops at Rainbow Falls, a 80-foot tall waterfall located in a lush rainforest. From here, the tour heads straight to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park, where you will have plenty of time to explore the park’s most famous landmarks. The steam vents, Kilauea Caldera overlook, and other notable sights are all included in the tour. After exploring the park, the tour pauses at the Akatsuka Orchid Gardens. This stunning orchid farm features numerous exquisite orchids in vibrant colors. Next, the tour stops at the Hilo Coffee Mill, where you can learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Finally, the tour concludes at the Mauna Loa macadamia nut farm. Here, you’ll have the chance to sample these delicious nuts and learn about their history on the Big Island.

What’s Included in the Tour

This tour includes all fees and taxes. Transportation to and from the Hilo port is also included in the price. You can select your preferred pickup point when booking the tour.

Additional Information

Confirmation for the tour will be received at the time of booking. The tour begins promptly at 8:00 AM, so make sure to arrive at your chosen pickup point on time. Admission tickets to the Liliuokalani Gardens and Rainbow Falls are free and included in the tour.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to explore Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park, this driving tour from Hilo is the perfect option. With a host of notable landmarks and attractions included in the tour, you’ll get to see some of the Big Island’s best sights in just a few hours. Book the tour today by clicking here.

Everything You Need To Know About Hilo

Introduction

Hilo is situated on the eastern coast of Hawaii and is the largest settlement on the Big Island. It is known as a rainforest city and provides stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It is a place of serene beauty and adventure, which attracts hordes of tourists from all walks of life. If you are planning to explore Hilo, then you must read this detailed FAQ that will help you plan a perfect vacation.

1. What is the best time to visit Hilo?

The best time to visit Hilo is from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the overall climate is mild. As Hawaii is a tropical location, you can expect some rain all year round. If you are looking to avoid crowds and expensive accommodations, then visiting in the offseason will be a good idea.

2. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Hilo?

Hilo has a wide range of tourist attractions, from national parks to museums, botanical gardens to adventure activities. Some of the most popular tourist attractions are:

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Akaka Falls State Park
• Hilo Farmers Market
• Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
• Lyman Museum and Mission House
• Naha Stone

3. How to reach Hilo?

Hilo has an international airport, the Hilo International Airport, which is served by various airlines. You can also reach Hilo by cruise ships, bus services or by renting a car. If you are coming from other parts of the Big Island, you can take the Hele-On Bus Service.

4. What are the best accommodations in Hilo?

Hilo offers a wide range of accommodations that cater to every budget and need. Some of the most popular options are:

• Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – A DoubleTree by Hilton
• The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
• Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
• Arnott’s Lodge & Hiking Adventures
• Wild Ginger Inn Hotel & Hostel

5. What food items should I try in Hilo?

Hilo offers a wide range of culinary delights that will leave you wanting more. Some of the must-try food items are:

• Malasadas – Portuguese Donuts
• Poke – Raw Seafood Salad
• Shave Ice – Flavored Ice Treat
• Kalua Pork – Hawaiian Style Roast Pork
• Loco Moco – Hamburger, Rice, and Gravy

6. What adventure activities can I do in Hilo?

Hilo offers a wide range of adventure activities that cater to every adrenaline junkie. Some of the most popular adventure activities are:

• Zipline Through the Rainforest
• Helicopter Tour of Volcano National Park
• Snorkeling at Kapoho Tide Pools
• Swim with Manta Rays
• Hiking at Akaka Falls State Park

7. What are the best shopping destinations in Hilo?

Hilo is known for its Hawaiiana architecture and rich culture, and there are many places where you can shop for traditional Hawaiian items. Some of the best shopping destinations are:

• The Hilo Farmers Market
• Banyan Gallery
• The Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo
• Island Naturals Market & Deli
• Rainbow Falls Gift Shop

8. What is the climate like in Hilo?

Hilo has a tropical rainforest climate, which means that it is warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature in Hilo ranges from 75°F to 85°F. The rainy season starts from November and lasts till March. However, the rain in Hilo is not constant, and there are dry spells between showers.

Book Your Tour Now

Hilo is a paradise on earth, and it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and rich culture. It is a perfect destination for any traveler visiting Hawaii, and this FAQ will help you plan your perfect Hawaiian vacation. We hope that this guide will answer all your questions and assist you in exploring Hilo to the fullest.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hilo

If you are trying to visit Hawaii, but you don’t want to end up in a bustling metropolitan area, then Hilo is the perfect destination for you. This town offers a more laid-back, relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for individuals who want to take a break from the world’s hustle and bustle. Below are some ways that first-time visitors or repeat tourists can spend their time in Hilo.

Visit the Akaka Falls State Park

If you want to witness the beauty of nature, then you need to visit the Akaka Falls State Park. This place is home to numerous waterfalls, including the 442-foot Akaka Falls. The park’s lush vegetation and scenic views are memorable, which makes it one of Hilo’s most popular tourist destinations. If you want to take a stroll through nature, you can also try the short hike, which will take you through the park’s rainforest to the waterfall itself.

Explore the Pacific Tsunami Museum

For tourists who want to learn more about the world and the unpredictable nature of natural disasters, the Pacific Tsunami Museum is the perfect place to visit. Here, you’ll learn more about the 1946 Hilo Tsunami, which had a massive impact on the community, causing around 159 casualties. You’ll get to view various exhibits ranging from photos to multimedia presentations that will take you back to that momentous day. Taking a fresh look at the world after visiting this museum will not be easy, so it’s wise to prepare yourself emotionally.

Visit the Lyman Museum and Mission House

The Lyman Museum and Mission House is another popular place for tourists looking for some educational experience. On this site, you’ll learn more about the history of Hilo and its inhabitants, as well as Hawaii’s overall culture. The museum features exhibits like geology displays and Hawaiian elks, and visitors can take a tour of a 19th-century Hawaiian mission home. There are also Hawaii’s best collections of shells, minerals, and seashells.

Check Out the Liliuokalani Park and Coconut Island

The Liliuokalani Park and Coconut Island is a Japanese-style garden that stretches over 30 acres of land. This spot provides a perfect spot for picnics, family trips, or even weddings. The place is surrounded by wooden bridges, koi fishponds, and stunning gardens. If you take a walk around the park, you’ll get to see the first Japanese-style teahouse built in Hawaii.

Visit the Imiloa Astronomy Center

If you’re into astronomy and want to know more about the universe, then visiting the Imiloa Astronomy Center should be on your list. This center emphasizes the connection between ancient Hawaiian ways of life and astronomy through educational exhibits and shows. There’s also a planetarium on this site, which provides visual progress of the universe.

Take a Stroll Along the Hilo Farmers Market

If you love some fresh local produce and you happen to be in Hilo on Wednesdays or Saturdays, you need to check out the Hilo Farmers Market. At this bustling market, you’ll come across a wide range of vendors from all over the island, selling items ranging from fruits and vegetables to Kona coffee, jewelry, and souvenirs. You may also be able to get some street food, making it the perfect lunch spot.

Go for a Whale Watching Tour

If you’re visiting Hilo between December to May, then this is the ideal time to go for a whale watching tour. The waters surrounding Hilo are home to humpback whales, and taking a boat tour will give you a unique perspective to experience these massive creatures in their natural habitat.

The Richardson Ocean Park

The Richardson Ocean Park is a fantastic destination spot and a gateway into the underwater world. This location has sandy beaches ideal for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing, and you can even experience some whale spotting. The park is surrounded by beautiful palm trees and has cooking grates, picnic tables, and lovely views that guarantee a fun day for families.

Book Your Tour Now

Hilo is a perfect destination spot for any tourist who is looking for a relaxing break from their routine life. With numerous waterfalls, parks, markets and educational tours, there are plenty of activities to offer for every member of the family. While visiting these destinations, be mindful of the culture and natural resources around you, so that you can play your role in protecting and preserving the beauty that Hilo has to offer.