Map Of Hilo, Hawaii Travel Guide

Introduction

Hilo is a beautiful city located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. It is known for its picturesque beaches, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Hilo, this travel guide will help you explore all the top attractions and hidden gems that the city has to offer.

Top Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

One of the most popular attractions in Hilo is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It is home to two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by car, and witness the amazing volcanic landscape.

Imiloa Astronomy Center

The Imiloa Astronomy Center is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in astronomy and space exploration. It features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and cultural displays that showcase the connection between Hawaiian culture and the stars.

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park is a beautiful nature reserve that features a 442-foot waterfall, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails. It is a great place to connect with nature and take in the stunning beauty of Hilo.

Hidden Gems

Waipi’o Valley

Waipi’o Valley is a hidden gem located on the north coast of Hilo. It is a lush valley surrounded by steep cliffs and home to a black sand beach, waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian ruins. Visitors can explore the valley on foot or by horseback.

Kahalu’u Beach Park

Kahalu’u Beach Park is a hidden gem for snorkeling and swimming. It is located south of Hilo and features calm waters, colorful coral reefs, and a variety of marine life. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world.

Lyman Museum and Mission House

The Lyman Museum and Mission House is a hidden gem for history buffs. It features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history of Hilo and Hawaii, including the role of Christian missionaries in shaping the culture of the islands.

Food Scene

Hilo is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, which features a mix of local Hawaiian cuisine and international flavors. Some of the top restaurants to check out include Cafe Pesto, Moon and Turtle, and Hilo Bay Cafe.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling to Hilo on a budget? Here are some tips to help you save money:

Book accommodations in advance to find the best deals.
Eat at local food trucks and markets for affordable and delicious meals.
Take advantage of free attractions, such as beaches and hiking trails.
Rent a bike instead of a car to save on transportation costs.

Outdoor Adventures

Hilo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. Some of the top outdoor adventures include:

Hiking to the top of Mauna Kea for stunning views of the island.
Biking along the scenic Hamakua Coastline.
Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in Hilo Bay.
Snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, Hilo has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Some of the top attractions for families include:

Visiting the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, which features over 2,000 species of tropical plants.
Exploring the Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo, which is home to over 80 species of animals.
Taking a family-friendly hike to the Akaka Falls.
Learning about Hawaiian culture and history at the Pacific Tsunami Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little more unique and off-the-beaten-path, Hilo has plenty of options. Some of the top off-the-beaten-path experiences include:

Visiting the Liliuokalani Gardens, a Japanese-style garden that is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Hilo.
Taking a guided tour of the Hilo Coffee Mill, where you can learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the best local coffee.
Exploring the Wailuku River State Park, which features a beautiful waterfall and a historic bridge.
Attending a traditional Hawaiian hula performance at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.

Natural Wonders

Hilo is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Hawaii. Some of the top natural wonders to explore include:

The Waipio Valley, a lush valley surrounded by steep cliffs and home to a black sand beach, waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian ruins.
The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which features two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
The Akaka Falls State Park, which features a 442-foot waterfall, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails.
The Rainbow Falls, a beautiful waterfall located just a few miles from downtown Hilo.

Vibrant Nightlife

Hilo may be known for its laid-back vibe, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the top bars and clubs to check out include:

Hilo Town Tavern, a popular bar that features live music and a fun atmosphere.
Medicine Wheel, a cozy bar that serves delicious craft cocktails and has a great outdoor patio.
Uncle Robert’s Awa Bar and Farmers Market, a weekly night market that features live music, food vendors, and a variety of local products.
Moon and Turtle, a restaurant and bar that serves delicious craft cocktails and has a lively atmosphere.

Local Markets

Hilo has a variety of local markets where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local products. Some of the top markets to check out include:

Hilo Farmers Market, a daily market that features over 200 vendors selling a variety of fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts.
Aloha Marketplace, a weekly market that features live music, food vendors, and a variety of local products.
The Hilo Coffee Mill Farmers Market, a weekly market that features fresh coffee, baked goods, and local crafts.
The Hilo Market, a monthly market that features live music, food vendors, and a variety of handmade crafts and products.

Beaches and Mountains

Hilo is surrounded by beautiful beaches and mountains, which offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Some of the top beaches and mountains to explore include:

Kahalu’u Beach Park, a popular beach for swimming and snorkeling.
Laupahoehoe Beach Park, a secluded beach that is great for picnics and relaxing.
Mauna Kea, the highest mountain in Hawaii, which offers amazing views of the island.
Mauna Loa, an active volcano that is perfect for hiking and exploring.

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture, Hilo has plenty of options. Some of the top cultural experiences include:

Attending a traditional Hawaiian hula performance at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.
Visiting the Lyman Museum and Mission House, which showcases the history of Hilo and Hawaii.
Exploring the Hawaii Plantation Museum, which features exhibits and artifacts that highlight the history of the sugar and pineapple industries in Hawaii.
Learning about the art of lei-making at the Hilo Lei Company.

Art and Music Scene

Hilo has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Some of the top art and music experiences include:

Visiting the East Hawaii Cultural Center, which features a variety of art exhibits and cultural events.
Attending a live music performance at the Palace Theater.
Exploring the Hilo Art Museum, which features a variety of art exhibits and cultural events.
Taking a walking tour of the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association’s public art collection.