Welcome to the tropical paradise of Hilo! Located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, Hilo is blessed with stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and a wealth of exciting activities and attractions to suit every interest. From epic waterfalls and lush botanical gardens to pristine beaches and historic landmarks, Hilo has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this charming town is the perfect place to explore. In this post, we’ll be sharing the best attractions and things to do in Hilo to help you plan your ultimate Hawaiian vacation.

The 2 Best Things to Do in Hilo

1. Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park
2. Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour from Hilo

The 2 Best Things to Do in Hilo

1. Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park

Discover the natural wonders of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on this stress-free driving tour from Hilo. With pickup directly from the port, you can save valuable time and head straight to the park’s highlights, including the breathtaking Kilauea Caldera overlook and the fascinating steam vents. But that’s not all, because you will also have time to visit some of the Big Island’s other top attractions, such as the vibrant Akatsuka Orchid Gardens, the flavorful Hilo Coffee Mill, and the delectable Mauna Loa macadamia farm. Along the way, you will also see some of the most beautiful and iconic sights in Hilo, including the Liliuokalani Gardens and the mesmerizing Rainbow Falls. All fees and taxes are included in the tour price, so you don’t have to worry about any extra costs. With this comprehensive tour, you can maximize your sightseeing experience and make the most of your time in Hilo.

2. Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour from Hilo

Experience the best of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on this adventure tour starting from Hilo. The tour takes you to the top natural landmarks in and around the park, including Rainbow Falls, Richardson black sand beach, Historic Banyan Drive, Liliuokalani Gardens, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory, Akatsuka Orchid Nursery, and the active volcano of Kilauea. You also get the opportunity to walk through a lava tube. Explore the top sites around Hilo, see the area’s only black sand beach, and enjoy complimentary snacks and bottled water. Hilo Port or Hilo Harbor pickup and drop-off is included. Join us at 09:00 AM for an incredible adventure in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo, Hawaii is a beautiful coastal city located on the east side of the Big Island. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the natural beauty, cultural festivals, and historical landmarks of Hawaii. If you are planning to visit Hilo, you might have a few questions in mind. In this post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions that tourists ask about Hilo.

What is the best time to visit Hilo?

The best time to visit Hilo is from September to November or from April to May. During these months, the weather is mild, and the rainfall is low. The temperature usually ranges between 75°F to 84°F. However, if you are interested in attending the Merrie Monarch Festival, which takes place in April, plan your visit accordingly.

What are the top tourist attractions in Hilo?

Hilo has plenty of tourist attractions that you can explore, such as:

Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Hilo. It has two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, that you can hike and explore. The park also has scenic drives, volcanic steam vents, and a lava tube that you can visit.

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park is a beautiful park that has a 442-foot waterfall, lush greenery, and scenic trails. You can hike through the park to see the waterfall and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Liliuokalani Gardens

Liliuokalani Gardens is a serene Japanese-inspired garden that has a large pond, stone bridges, pagodas, and cherry trees. It is a great place to relax and take a stroll.

Where can I see sea turtles in Hilo?

You can see sea turtles at Carlsmith Beach Park and Richardson Beach Park. Both beaches have a rocky shoreline where sea turtles like to rest. However, it is important to keep a safe distance from the turtles and not to touch or disturb them.

What are some local foods that I should try in Hilo?

Hilo has a diverse food scene, and there are plenty of local foods that you should try, such as:

Poke

Poke is a popular Hawaiian dish that consists of raw fish, seasonings, and vegetables. It is a refreshing and healthy option that is perfect for a hot day.

Malasadas

Malasadas are Portuguese doughnuts that are deep-fried and rolled in sugar. They are a popular dessert that you can find at several bakeries and food trucks in Hilo.

Loco Moco

Loco Moco is a hearty Hawaiian dish that consists of rice, burger patty, gravy, and egg. It is a filling meal that you can find at local diners and restaurants.

What is the weather like in Hilo?

Hilo has a tropical rainforest climate, which means that it is humid and rainy throughout the year. The temperature usually ranges between 65°F to 85°F. It is important to pack rain gear and comfortable walking shoes if you are planning to explore Hilo.

Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Hilo?

It is generally safe to swim in the ocean in Hilo, but you should be aware of the ocean conditions and follow the lifeguard’s instructions. Hilo has several beaches that are suitable for swimming, such as Coconut Island, Richardson Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

What cultural festivals take place in Hilo?

Hilo has several cultural festivals throughout the year that celebrate the island’s history and traditions, such as:

Merrie Monarch Festival

The Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture and hula that takes place in April. It is one of the most significant cultural events in Hawaii and attracts visitors from around the world.

Aloha Festivals

The Aloha Festivals are a series of events that take place in Hilo and other Hawaiian islands in September. The festivals celebrate Hawaiian music, dance, food, and arts.

What outdoor activities can I do in Hilo?

Hilo has several outdoor activities that you can do, such as:

Hiking

Hilo is surrounded by lush rainforests and scenic trails that you can hike. You can explore the trails at Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls State Park, and Rainbow Falls.

Surfing

Hilo has several beaches that are suitable for surfing, such as Honolii Beach Park and Hilo Bay. You can rent surfboards and take lessons from local surf schools.

Kayaking

You can rent a kayak and explore the Wailuku River or Hilo Bay. Kayaking is a great way to see the city’s scenic coastline and wildlife.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hilo

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful city of Hilo, you’ll be amazed at how much this charming town has to offer. Hilo is located on the eastern coast of Hawaii’s Big Island and is known for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Hilo has something for everyone.In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the top things to do in Hilo and help you plan the perfect itinerary for your trip. Here is our step-by-step guide to spending your time as a tourist in Hilo:

Step 1: Explore the Natural Wonders

Hilo boasts some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. You should start by exploring its numerous waterfalls, botanical gardens, and national parks. Perhaps the most photogenic waterfall in Hilo is Rainbow Falls, a series of cascading falls that offers a beautiful rainbow effect in the mornings. Wailuku River State Park is also a must-visit, with several hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and views of Hilo Bay.Another popular spot is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, a lush wonderland of tropical flowers and plants. The garden is located on Onomea Bay and has over 2,000 species of plants from around the world. Admission is a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for the stunning views and a chance to see Hawaii’s unique flora.

Step 2: Get a Taste of Local Culture

One of the best ways to experience a new place is through its cuisine, and Hilo has a rich culinary tradition. For breakfast, you need to stop at Ken’s House of Pancakes, a local favourite that’s been around since 1971, offering a variety of breakfast dishes, and open 24 hours a day.For lunch or dinner, hit up the Hilo Farmers Market, which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday. Here you can sample local fruit and vegetables, and try traditional Hawaiian snacks like Spam musubi, a delicious combination of sushi rice, nori, and Spam.Be sure to also stop by the Lyman Museum and Mission House, a great way to learn more about the history of the region. Exhibits highlight everything from ancient Hawaiian culture to the arrival of the first missionaries.

Step 3: Relax on the Beach

No trip to Hawaii would be complete without a day spent soaking up the sun on a sandy beach. And Hilo has some of the most beautiful black sand beaches in the world. Hilo’s beaches are made up of volcanic sands, which gives them their unique colour and texture. Richardson Beach Park is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling.If you’re looking for something a bit more secluded, head to Pohoiki Beach. This beach is located on the remote Puna coast and is almost entirely secluded. The beach is also known as the black sand beach.

Step 4: Enjoy the Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Hilo comes to life with plenty of nightlife options. Start your evening at Hilo Bay Cafe or Pineapple’s Restaurant, both popular spots for dinner and drinks. For live music and dancing, check out The Zoo Bar or The Palace Theatre, where you can catch a show or concert.

Step 5: Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Hilo is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Hawaii. From its stunning natural wonders to its rich culinary tradition and buzzing nightlife scene, there is something for every kind of tourist. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable time experiencing all that Hilo has to offer.