Hilo Guide
East Hawaii — waterfalls, rainforest, and the island's living volcano.
Welcome to Hilo
The Big Island's lush, rainy east side is home to Hawaii's most active volcano, cascading waterfalls, and a slower, more local pace of life. From steam vents at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the mist of Rainbow Falls just minutes from downtown, Hilo offers a completely different side of the Big Island than sunny Kona.
- Hilo Main Town
- ITO Airport Code
- Kilauea Active Volcano
- 442 ft Akaka Falls Height
Ready to explore Hilo on your own? A rental car is the easiest way to see the island at your own pace. Check Hilo car rental rates →
The Bucket List
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Drive Crater Rim Drive, walk through the Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku), and witness steam vents and active volcanic landscapes across 500 square miles of unique geological wonders.
Rainbow Falls & Pe'epe'e Falls
Just minutes from downtown Hilo — the iconic 80-foot Rainbow Falls throws morning mist over basalt lava caves.
Akaka Falls State Park
A short, paved rainforest loop trail leads to the towering 442-foot Akaka Falls plunging into a lush tropical gorge — suitable for all ages.
Scenic Hamakua Coast Drive
Drive north along Highway 19 past ocean gulches, botanical gardens, and dramatic sea cliffs toward the Waipi'o Valley lookout.
Kaumana Caves State Park
Descend into a skylight opening of a massive lava tube formed by Mauna Loa's 1881 eruption.
Mauna Kea Observatory
Stargaze from one of the world's best astronomy sites at 13,796 feet. Dress warmly — temperatures often drop below 40°F at the summit.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Drive south from Hilo to view jet-black volcanic sand shores and spot sea turtles resting along the coast.
Waipi'o Valley
Ancient temples, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts — hike or ride horseback into the valley to see traditional Hawaiian taro farming.
The Ever-Changing Lava Flows
Kilauea's ongoing eruptions have added over 500 acres of new land since 1983, continuously shaping new coastlines and volcanic glass fields. Book Hilo lava tours →
Family-Friendly Hilo
Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Hawaii's only rainforest zoo — 12 acres of exotic animals including monkeys, lemurs, and tropical birds, plus a petting zoo for kids. Free admission.
Akaka Falls Loop Trail
An easy 0.4-mile paved loop suitable for kids and seniors alike, with scenic rainforest footbridges and striking waterfall views.
Carlsmith Beach Park
Swim and snorkel in spring-fed lava lagoons frequently visited by Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) — calm, safe water for the family.
Liliuokalani Park & Gardens
Edo-style Japanese gardens with winding trails, stone lanterns, and tranquil ponds along Hilo Bay — an easy, scenic stroll for all ages.
Culture & Local Flavor
Hilo Farmers Market
Browse tropical fruits, local produce, Hawaiian crafts, and street food vendors in historic downtown Hilo — a weekly institution.
Big Island Candy Company
A local favorite since 1977 — handmade treats using island-grown macadamia nuts, Kona coffee, and Hawaiian honey. Visit the Hilo factory to sample and shop.
Merrie Monarch Festival
Held annually after Easter, this week-long celebration of hula competitions, traditional music, and craft fairs honors King David Kalakaua and draws visitors worldwide.
Pacific Tsunami Museum
Interactive exhibits on Hawaii's tsunami history, including the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis that affected the Big Island, with personal stories, artifacts, and photographs.
Hilo Travel FAQ
Do I need a 4WD or Jeep in Hilo?
No. Standard sedans, compacts, and SUVs can comfortably reach almost all top attractions, including Volcanoes National Park, Saddle Road, Akaka Falls, and Kona.
How long is the drive to Volcanoes National Park?
About 30 miles along Highway 11 — roughly 40 to 45 minutes by rental car.
Can I pick up in Hilo and drop off in Kona?
Yes — one-way rentals between Hilo Airport (ITO) and Kona Airport (KOA) are available through select rental partners, making it easy to travel across the island.
Getting Around Hilo
From waterfalls minutes from downtown to the summit of Mauna Kea, Hilo's best spots are spread across East Hawaii — a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Ready to Explore Hilo?
From cascading waterfalls to an active volcano, East Hawaii is calling.
Check Hilo Rates