Is Hilo Worth Visiting? 35 Reasons to Visit This Hawaii City
Visiting the Big Island, staying on the Kona side and wondering: Is Hilo worth visiting? Yes. Yes it is!
Unlike the shiny, modern buildings of Kona, Hilo’s raw and rustic architecture, dating from the 1830s to the 1960s, gives you a glimpse into a more authentic Hawaiian experience
The historic Hilo district is full of shops, restaurants and art galleries to explore. There’s beaches good for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. And let’s not forget about all the waterfalls!
My Go-To Big Island Travel Planning Resources
🚗 The best car rental prices I’ve found are from Discount Hawaii Car Rental!
🪂 Have an activity on your Bucket List? Book a tour with Viator!
🧳I never pack my bag without these!
What is Special About Hilo Hawaii?
Hilo is located on the lush and green east side of the Big Island, making it an ideal place to experience tropical beauty like stunning waterfalls, verdant forests and gardens, and black lava rock beaches.
Precipitation
What makes Hilo one of the greenest areas on the island is the fact that it’s one of the rainiest cities in the US with 211 days of rain dumping an average of 156.79 inches a year.
Now, you would never guess it as the sun does shine quite often in Hilo and the rain usually happens while you’re sleeping.
Down to Earth Charm
Hilo’s charm lies in its unique character, which is shaped by its run-down historic buildings and a strong local community. Despite being somewhat worn, the town’s buildings have a nostalgic appeal that transports visitors back in time.
Even though Hilo is the largest city on the Big Island, it has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, which can be a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of Kona. The town’s slower pace of life allows visitors to fully immerse themselves into “authentic” Hawaii.
Homebase for East Island Exploring
Not only is it worth spending a day or two in Hilo itself, if you’re in search of a homebase to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea and the Hamakua Coast, this town is the logical choice. It’s closer to these attractions than Kona, saving you daylight hours, less time on the road, and more time adventuring.
Natural Beauty of Hilo
Hilo has no shortage of opportunities to explore and connect with nature with its lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls , and scenic beaches.
1. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls on the Big Island and most prominent natural landmark in Hilo. Located just 2 miles out of old historic downtown, Rainbow Falls a stunning 80-foot waterfall that cascades into the river below.
It’s a quick stop for pictures and if you are hoping to catch the rainbow mist on a sunny day, it’s best to visit mid-morning.
There is a short hike up rugged stairs to the the top of the waterfalls and a banyan tree forest too.
2. Pe‘epe‘e Falls and Boiling Pots
Pe‘epe‘e Falls and Boiling Pots is another water scene just upstream from Rainbow Falls. Pe‘epe‘e Falls peaks from behind a large rock formation and cascades down an 80-foot drop into a series of pools below, creating an intriguing visual effect known as “boiling pots”. The force of the water creates rapids and whirlpools that churn up giving it its characteristic bubbling appearance.
This is also a quick stop for pictures.
3. Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in the lush rainforest of Akaka Falls State Park, about 15 miles north of Hilo. The falls drop 442 feet down a verdant cliff and into a stream-eroded gorge below
The trail is an easy half-mile paved loop through the park’s lush vegetation, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and most abilities.
💁♀️ Tab’s Trip Tip: Avoid the parking lot fee by parking just outside the gate along the street shoulder for FREE.
4. Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
Spread over a stunning 20 acres, the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden has more than 2,500 species of plants and flowers, both native and from around the world. It is also home to the three-tiered Onomea Waterfall.
After strolling the boardwalks around the “living classroom”, enjoy views of Onomea Bay at the edge of the property.
5. Richardson Beach
Richardson Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Hilo. Not only is there a black sand beach with views looking out towards Hilo, lava rocks create sheltered pockets in the crystal clear waters making for an ideal snorkeling environment.
What makes Richardson Beach even more special is the high probability of seeing green sea turtles here!
6. Kaumana Caves
Just a few miles from the historic downtown center, you can hike through a large lava tube known as Kaumana Caves. Bring a flashlight or headlamp and spelunk through this expansive tube, choosing either the left or right route and go as far as you can physically or mentally go.
7. Wai’ale Falls
Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots tend to be tourist favorites as far as waterfalls go. But if you go up river just a little more you’ll come to my favorite, Wai’ale Falls.
Unlike the other two waterfalls, this is one you can take a short, narrow trail to and swim below it or boulder hop at the top.
8. Liliuokalani Park
Liliuokalani Park is a beautiful and peaceful park named after Hawaii’s last monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, who donated the site. It was built in 1917 and dedicated as a tribute to the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii who came to work on the sugar cane fields.
The park features traditional Japanese gardens with ponds, bridges, pagodas, and other traditional Japanese structures, making it a serene and picturesque park for walking or picnicing.
9. Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive
Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive is just outside of Hilo and is the prettiest drive on the island, in my opinion. This scenic 4-mile drive takes you through a narrow, winding road through lush rainforests and over babbling brooks, bringing you to old bridges, Onomea Bay, the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Gardens, and Six Tons waterfall.
Cultural Experiences in Hilo
Hilo features a blend of traditional and modern Hawaiian culture through art, festivals, museums, and more.
10. Kamehameha Statue
Standing tall at 14 feet, the Kamehameha Statue is a bronze masterpiece commemorating King Kamehameha I, who played a crucial role in unifying the Hawaiian Islands during the 18th and 19th centuries. Created by Thomas Ridgeway Gould, the statue was commissioned in 1969, but it wasn’t until June 1997 that it was erected and dedicated at its current location.
Originally, the statue was meant for the Princeville Corporation resort in Kauai, but the people of Kauai did not want it as Kamehameha I never actually conquered their island. So they gifted it to Hilo, a more suitable location as it was one of the political hubs of King Kamehameha I.
11. Merrie Monarch Festival
During Easter week, Hilo hosts the Merrie Monarch Festival, a prestigious statewide hula competition. Visitors can witness mesmerizing hula dances, as well as traditional Hawaiian music and storytelling. Tickets are hard to get and highly coveted, but if you manage to score some, you’ll be in for a treat!
If you can’t watch the competitions, the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade strolls down the streets of old downtown Hilo for all to watch. It’s a vibrant and colorful parade, with competitors, pa’u riders, musicians, and non-competing hula performers. It’s a spectacle you won’t see on the mainland.
There is also an arts and crafts fair during the week to shop local Hawaiian artisan goods.
12. Lyman Museum and Mission House
Take a guided tour of the Lyman’s Mission House, which was built in the 1830s by David and Sarah Lyman, Christian missionaries from the east coast. It was one of the first houses built on the island in New England style, is made from native koa and ohia woods, and once welcomed famous guests like Mark Twain.
Located next door, the Lyman Museum features remarkable displays of Hawaiian culture and a renowned collection of shells and minerals- including orlymanite, named after their great grandson Orlando Hammond Lyman.
13. Imiloa Astronomy Center
More of a children’s science museum, the Imiloa Astronomy Center showcases the deep connection between astronomy and Hawaiian culture. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch planetarium shows, and learn about the importance of the stars and constellations in Hawaiian mythology and navigation.
14. East Hawaii Cultural Center
The East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center is a vibrant arts and cultural hub that offers a wide range of programs, exhibits, and events for the community. Pop into the free gallery to see current art on display, learn something new at a workshop, or watch a performance by talented artists.
Check out their current programs here.
15. Naha Stone
The Naha Stone, a massive 3.5-ton volcanic rock, holds a legendary place in Hawaiian history.
It was originally used to confirm a child’s legitimacy within the Naha rank bloodline. Also according to legend, anyone who could overturn the stone would be granted the power to unite all of Hawaii.
At just 14 years old, King Kamehameha I is said to have moved the stone, a feat that foretold his destiny to unite the Hawaiian Islands, which he later achieved.
Today, the Naha Stone sits in front of the Hilo Public Library.
16. Pacific Tsunami Museum
The Hilo Tsunami of 1946 was a deadly and destructive event triggered by a magnitude 8.1 earthquake in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. The tsunami waves, which reached as high as 55 feet, devastated the Hilo Bay area, destroying buildings, homes, and infrastructure, and resulting in a death toll of 159 people.
Learn all about it at the Pacific Tsunami Museum through interactive exhibits and informational placards.
Activities in Hilo Worth Visiting
17. Hilo Farmers Market
The Hilo Farmers Market is probably the most famous market on the island and is on everyone’s must-do list in Hilo. And for good reason.
This vibrant market offers over 200 vendors selling an impressive variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, crafts, and other local products. The whole market is covered, so even if it’s raining, you can still stay dry while browsing tables.
The market is open year-round, 7 days week, with the biggest shopping days being on Wednesday and Saturday.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it an ideal place to pick up souvenirs or grab a bite to eat.
18. Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Animal lovers can enjoy a trip to the Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo, which is the only naturally occurring tropical rainforest zoo in the United States.
This zoo is one of my favorite places to visit in Hilo. Located on 12 acres of lush tropical rainforest, it features over 80 animal species including tigers, emus, reptiles, primates, and lemurs. Not to mention its impressive collection of parrots as well as homing endangered and rare animals like the Nene Hawaiian goose and the Hawaiian crow
In addition to the animal exhibits there is also a large playground for kids to get their sillies out as well as covered picnic areas to eat a dry lunch.
The best part? Admission is free!
19. Coconut Island
Across the street from Liliuokalani Park is a favorite local’s hangout, Coconut Island.
Walk across the long white bridge to a small island with beautiful views of Hilo and Mauna Kea. There’s plenty of grass, picnic tables, bathrooms, a tiny beach, and shade trees, for a relaxing afternoon.
Kids, and kids at heart, like to jump off the two-tiered diving tower, built during WWII for sailors to practice jumping.
20. Banyan Drive
Walk or drive down Banyan Drive underneath nearly 100yr old banyan trees. Each tree is labeled by a wooden sign with names of people who planted that specific tree. Many names you won’t recognize, but you might be surprised to find ones you do know like Amelia Earhart or Babe Ruth.
21. Honoli’i Beach
For outdoor enthusiasts, Honoli’i Beach is a popular destination for surfing. Known for its consistent waves, this black sand beach is a great spot for experienced surfers to take advantage of the oncoming breaks.
But because of these waves, only surfers are allowed in the waters. The lifeguard will kick you out of the water if you are only swimming. Try enjoying the Honoli’i Stream instead.
Parking is tight along the street. While it’s technically a two-way street, there is only room for one-way traffic, so drive slowly and carefully.
22. Chocolate Farm Tours
Chocolate farm tours are a great way to learn about the history and production of chocolate and to sample some unique and delicious treats. Book your tour ahead of time for Lavaloha or Hamakua Chocolate Farm where you can explore the cacao orchards and learn about how cacao trees are grown and harvested. Witness the chocolate-making process and sample a variety of estate-grown chocolate flavors.
If you don’t have time for a chocolate tour, stop into the Puna Chocolate Company gift shop and cafe in downtown Hilo for chocolates grown in the Puna district and to also try to some velvety drinking chocolate.
23. Big Island Candies
For all your shortbread cookie needs, visit the Big Island Candies store. Try loads of free samples of different flavored shortbread cookies that are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. You’ll find chocolate dipped, coconut, macadamia nut, or good ol’ fashioned original.
These cookies make great souvenirs to bring home to friends, family, and coworkers.
You can also watch the large factory kitchen in production through panoramic windows in the back of the store.
24. Umaumau Experience
The Umauma Experience is an adventure park located in the Hilo area of Hawaii that offers visitors a range of exciting activities. From ziplining over stunning waterfalls to taking ATV tours, swimming at Umaumau Falls, kayaking and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone here!
Those who aren’t as adventurous can take a self-guided tour through the gardens and falls viewing areas.
>> Check Rates and Availability for Umaumau Experience Ziplining Here! <<
25. Beer Tasting
Beer tasting at Ola Brewing Co. and Hilo Brewing Co. is an excellent way to hide from the rain and experience some of the best locally brewed craft beers.
Ola Brewing Co. is known for its innovative and creative beer offerings, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients, such as oranges, lilikoi, and coffee, to infuse unique flavors into their brews. Not only do they brew beers, they have also concocted hard juices, hard seltzers, and hard teas.
Similarly, Hilo Brewing Co. is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts, with a range of beers to choose from, including flavors like Tsunami IPA and Volcano Red Ale. Their taproom garage is a welcoming space with a fun and relaxed vibe, where visitors can enjoy a pint while talking story with a local.
26. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center
Indulge in a sampling macadamia nuts at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center. Walk around the gift shop, read up on the history of Mauna Loa, and watch a video of the macadamia nut harvesting process. Cordial staff are happy to address all of your nutty inquiries.
Try a cone of macadamia nut ice cream, a dairy-free treat!
Food and Drink Scenes in Hilo Worth Visiting
The food and drink scene in Hilo is as diverse and unique as the city itself. From traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors, you’re sure to find a meal you like that’s likely made with fresh, local ingredients.
There’s too many to list here, but here is a sampling of my favorites.
27. What’s Shakin’
What’s Shakin’ is on the Pepe’ekeo scenic drive and specializes in healthy and delicious smoothies, wraps using fresh, local ingredients including produce sourced from their own farm.
The restaurant also offers outdoor seating, providing a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a meal or refreshing drink.
Seriously, their smoothies are the thickest and creamiest you’ll find. And their wrap plates make eating healthy a delight.
28. Paradise Coffee Roasters
Paradise Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee shop known for its high-quality, pour over coffee.
They source their green coffee beans straight from small farms locally in Hawaii (Kona and Ka’u), as well as from Central America, South America, and Africa. They then roast the beans to perfection themselves right there in Hilo.
You’ll find this hole-in-the-wall cafe is just a walk-up counter. With a limited selection of coffee, as the variety is always rotating, choose from the menu dejour and wait patiently as they make your lovingly poured over coffee one delicious cup at a time.
29. Cafe Pesto
Cafe Pesto offers a unique fusion of Italian and Pacific Rim cuisine. The restaurant is located in a historic building in the heart of Hilo’s downtown area, and features an elegant interior with tall ceilings and a checkered floor.
The menu at Cafe Pesto features a wide range of dishes, from gourmet pizzas to pastas to fresh seafood. Treat yourself to tropical cocktail.
30. Poke Market
Poke Market is a hole-in-the-wall source for fresh poke. This hidden gem was voted as one of Hawaii’s favorite poke bowl’s in the state, and I won’t argue that!
They offer a variety of fresh and delicious poke bowls, with 5 sides to choose from. Their purple sweet potato salad side is a must-try!
With 24-hr notice, they can also make you a poke or sushi cake.
31. Pineapples
Pineapples is the only open-air restaurant in Hilo and is very popular with the tourists. But, this casual restaurant is popular for a reason.
Their island inspired menu uses locally sourced ingredients serving fresh seafood, burgers, salads, and more. They also have an extensive gluten free and vegan menu.
The star of the restaurant is their Pineapple Pow cocktail – fruity flavors served in a whole pineapple!
Reservations are recommended.
💁♀️ Tab’s Trip Tip: I suggest going for Happy Hour from 3-5pm. Not only do you get samplings of their bigger menu, you can likely bypass the long wait for a table by sitting in the bar area instead.
32. Ola Brewing Co.
Ola Brew Co. is not only a brewery but they are also a restaurant with an impressive menu. Diners are often surprised to find out that the food at Ola is just as impressive as the drinks. The menu features a variety of creative fusion dishes such as the bao buns and Japanese curry fries, along with classic Ola Burger.
33. The Booch Bar
The Booch Bar is a trendy restaurant in Hilo that’s all about healthy, plant-based food and drinks, making it very vegan and gluten free friendly.
As the name suggests, they specialize in kombucha, offering a variety of flavors on tap that are all brewed in-house.
Along with the kombucha, they also serve smoothie bowls, salads, sandwiches, and other health-conscious dishes. Try the Booch Burger! It’s a Big Island beef patty with lilikoi mustard and kombucha ketchup.
34. Kula Shave Ice
You’ll find Kula Shave Ice at the Hilo Farmers Market and is arguable the best shave ice on the island.
The is ice is fluffy with a creamy texture. Their flavorful homemade syrups use organic and locally sourced fruits; none of that food coloring, pure sugar stuff. The haupia cream topping is a must!
If you need to satisfy your sweet tooth on a hot day in Hilo, go to Kula.
35. Ken’s House of Pancakes
Ken’s House of Pancakes is one, if not the only, restaurant open 24hrs a day in Hilo. So, no matter the time of day, you can get your diner food cravings fixed.
People come here for the the Hawaiian pancakes, coconut, macadamia nut, or banana with guava, coconut, and passion fruit syrup choices. If not the pancakes, it’s the loco moco that bring in the customers.
Is It Worth Staying in Hilo?
It is hard to day trip around the Big Island if you only stay in one place. In some spots, it can take 3 hours to get from end of the island to the other.
Hilo makes for a good homebase to explore the eastern, more tropical-ly side of the Big Island, as well as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea.
It can also be more cost-effective to stay on the Hilo side of the Big Island, as room prices are slightly cheaper.
>> Find a place to stay in Hilo here! <<
How do I Spend a Day in Hilo Hawaii?
There are a thousand different combinations of how to spend a day in Hilo, Hawaii.
BUT, this is one way of what I would do in Hilo for a day:
- Kens House of Pancakes : breakfast
- Paradise Coffee Roasters : coffee to-go
- Rainbow Falls : quick stop for pics
- Wailuku Waterfalls : hike to the top of a waterfall
- Kaumana Caves : hike through a dark lava tube
- Hilo Farmers Market : shop for fresh fruits and souvenirs, get a shave ice at Kula if I feel in the mood
- Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive : enjoy an idealic Hawaiian scenic road, hike down to Onomea Bay, and hike to the top of another waterfall, maybe take a dip by Six Tons waterfalls
- What’s Shakin : lunch and smoothie
- Akaka Falls : hike the short loop to one of the tallest waterfalls on the island
- Umaumau Experience : zipline across waterfalls
- Pineapples : dinner and cocktails
You Might Also Like:
How to Spend a Day in Kona
Is Hilo Worth Visiting FAQs
Are Hilo and Kona on the same island?
Yes, Hilo and Kona are on the same island, the Big Island of Hawaii. Hilo is on the east side of the island while Kona is on the west side.
How far is Hilo from Kona?
There are multiple ways to get from Kona to Hilo, but the most straightforward route is via Saddle Road which makes the two cities about 77 miles away from each other.
Is Hilo or Kona better?
Depending on which activities, climate, and terrain you prefer, only you can decide if Hilo or Kona is better.
Kona is drier, more deserty, has white sand beaches, a variety of boat and van tours, and manta ray night snorkeling.
Hilo has more green and tropical foliage, waterfalls, black sand beaches, a slower pace of life, and feels more rural.
How many days do you need in Hilo?
Again, how many days you need in Hilo is dependent on what you plan on doing. Some people need only a day, while others say a week isn’t long enough.
Hilo does make for a good homebase if you plan to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, and the Hamakua Coast, so extra days can easily be tacked on.
Epilogue: Is Hilo Worth Visiting?
So, is Hilo worth visiting?
I say yes! Hilo is certainly worth visiting for its lush green scenery and slower pace of life. You can find activities to suit all interests, from beer tasting to waterfall hikes – there’s something for everyone in this little big city on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Whether it be one day or a week, make sure your itinerary includes some time spent exploring all that Hilo has to offer! With so much natural beauty and unique experiences around every corner, you won’t regret spending some time here.
