Things To See In Hilo Hawaii

Hilo Hawaii is a beautiful city, located on the east coast of the Big Island. It is the county seat of Hawaii County and the largest city in the county. Hilo is home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, and is also the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It is a city of lush tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and stunningly beautiful black-sand beaches. With its mix of old-world charm and modern attractions, Hilo is an ideal destination for a tropical getaway. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best things to do and see in Hilo Hawaii.

Explore the Arts and Culture of Hilo

Hilo is a city of arts and culture. There are several galleries and museums in the city, including the Lyman Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and the East Hawaii Cultural Center. The Lyman Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii, while the Imiloa Astronomy Center will take you on a journey through Hawaiian mythology and the stars. The East Hawaii Cultural Center is home to a variety of art galleries and a theater, where you can see live performances. No matter what your interests, Hilo is sure to have something to offer.

Take a Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens

Hilo is home to several botanical gardens, including the Hilo Tropical Botanical Garden and the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Both are beautiful, lush gardens that feature a variety of tropical plants and flowers. They are both a great place to take a leisurely stroll and explore the wonders of nature.

Visit the Waterfalls of Hilo

Hilo is home to several beautiful waterfalls. The most popular waterfall is the Rainbow Falls, located in the Wailuku River State Park. This 80-foot waterfall is stunning, and it is a great place to take a dip and cool off on a hot day. Other popular waterfalls include Akaka Falls, which is one of the tallest in Hawaii, and the Umauma Falls, which has a stunning view of the ocean.

Go Whale Watching in Hilo Bay

Hilo Bay is one of the best places in Hawaii to go whale watching. Every winter, humpback whales migrate to the area to mate and give birth. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a pod of spinner dolphins. There are several boat tours available, where you can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

Visit Volcanoes National Park

Hilo is the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This stunning park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. You can explore the park by car, foot, or bike, and you can also take a guided tour. Be sure to check out the Thurston Lava Tube, a 500-year-old lava tube, and the Chain of Craters Road, a scenic drive that winds through the park.

Experience the Nightlife and Shopping of Hilo

Hilo is also home to several bars, pubs, and restaurants, where you can experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. There are also plenty of shopping centers and boutiques, where you can find everything from souvenirs to locally-made goods.

Additional Tips for Visiting Hilo

When visiting Hilo, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to bring comfortable shoes, as Hilo is a city of hills. The weather in Hilo can also be unpredictable, so be sure to bring an umbrella or raincoat. Lastly, make sure to plan your visit, as the attractions in Hilo can be spread out.

Hilo Hawaii is a beautiful city, with plenty of attractions and things to do. From exploring the arts and culture to taking a stroll through the botanical gardens, there is something for everyone in Hilo. Be sure to take some time to explore this beautiful city, as it is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Hilo, Hawaii – Discovering the Hidden Gems

Hilo, Hawaii is a city that exudes a laid-back, inviting, and alluring vibe. This small city encompasses a unique blend of the Hawaiian culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. While most visitors flock to Hilo for its famous attractions such as the Rainbow Falls and the Mauna Kea Observatory, the city holds a few secret gems that only locals know. In this insider’s guide to Hilo, we will take you on a journey to explore some off-the-beaten-path attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and much more.

Local Attractions

Hilo is a city filled with natural wonders, and its off-the-beaten-path attractions add more charm to it. For instance, the Kaumana Caves, located off the main road, is a fascinating destination that welcomes adventurers to explore a system of collapsed lava tubes with a flashlight in hand. Another hidden gem is the Honoli’i Beach Park, a favorite for surfers and bodyboarders, where visitors can watch the locals display their skills on the waves or have a sunny day by the beach.

Dining Spots

Hilo boasts a culinary scene that reflects its multi-ethnic community with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. When in Hilo, be sure to try out some distinctive dishes, such as laulau, a Kanaka Maoli dish of pork and fish steamed in taro leaves, and poi, a starchy Hawaiian staple made from taro root. The Hilo Farmers Market is the ideal spot to explore the authentic Hawaiian cuisine. Here, visitors will find a variety of fruits, veggies, and other local delicacies like macadamia nuts, shaved ice, and poke bowls.

Cultural Experiences

Hilo’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, encompassing a rich blend of Hawaiian, Asian, and European traditions. Visitors can experience the Aloha spirit first-hand by joining in on one of the many cultural celebrations, such as the Merrie Monarch Festival, an annual event celebrating Hawaiian culture through dance, music, and art. Another unique experience is visiting the Hilo Daijingu Shrine, a century-old Shinto shrine dedicated to offering prayers for success in love and marriage.

Local History

Hilo’s history is steeped in a rich Hawaiian legacy, which visitors can delve into through the museums and historical landmarks. The Lyman Museum and Mission House, for instance, is a must-visit destination for those interested in Hawaiian history, anthropology, and geology, featuring extensive collections of Hawaiian artifacts and exhibits on Hawaiian culture. Another fascinating site is the Wailuku River State Park, where visitors can witness the unique and historical Saddle Road, which was built by the ancient Menehune people.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For visitors seeking an opportunity to get away from the crowd and engage in unique experiences, Hilo offers a plethora of options. For instance, visiting Akaka Falls, a 422-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, provides visitors a chance to reconnect with nature while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Visitors can also take a scenic drive up the Hamakua Coast, an underrated destination showcasing stunning waterfalls, verdant valleys, and picturesque towns.

In conclusion, Hilo, Hawaii, is a city packed with hidden gems that add to its already immense beauty. Whether you want to explore hidden caves, learn about different cultures, indulge in local cuisine, or experience the city’s unique history, Hilo has something to offer everyone. With its Aloha spirit, a blend of cultures, and an irresistible allure, Hilo, Hawaii, is truly a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor.