Top 38 Things to Do in Hilo: Unveiling the Beauty and Charm of Hawaii’s Vibrant Coastal City

Discover the top 25 attractions in Hilo, Hawaii’s charming third-largest city on the Big Island’s east side. Known for its preserved historical character, Hilo offers visitors an authentic Hawaiian experience with its slow island pace and genuine aloha spirit. From lush botanical gardens and dramatic waterfalls to vibrant markets and cultural sites, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of your visit to this unique coastal destination.

Hilo, Hawaii is the state’s third largest city and feels quiet, sleepy and unchanged from all the progress made in Hawaii. But seeing Hilo’s past and present combined with same old town vibe is actually one of the best things to experience here on the island and why it really has a special charm and place to explore in Hawaii.

We share all the popular places to visit, unique parks and vista points along with some of the more unique and one-of-a-kind places to explore. Many of these attractions are free or inexpensive places to explore on the east side of the island. When you visit Hilo, you’ll find the real aloha here with friendly smiles and faces, easy to meet locals and an real authentic experience you’ll enjoy visiting East Hawaii.

Why visit Hilo, Hawaii?

In my 15 years living in Hilo, I’ve consistently found locals to be welcoming to visitors. The east side of the island generally offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the resort areas of Kona, which many travelers seeking authentic Hawaiian experiences appreciate.

Hilo is low key, almost unchanged and a friendly city to explore. The lush side of the Big Island is sleepy, easy going and filled with aloha from the walkable downtown district with the Bay Front area, Farmers Market and cool shops to explore to the expansive beach front area, Liliuokalani garden and Coconut Island to explore.

You’ll love the unique and slower pace here with all of the fun activities and attractions to do around Hilo Hawaii

A brief history to Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo’s rich history begins with Polynesian settlement approximately 1,500 years ago when voyagers from the Marquesas Islands and later Tahiti arrived on Hawaii Island (Kamakau, S.M., 1992, “Ruling Chiefs of Hawaii”). Archaeological evidence at Liliuokalani Gardens and surrounding areas confirms these early settlements (Hawaii State Historic Preservation Division, 2020)

The sugar industry transformed Hilo in the 1800s, with the first successful sugar plantation established in 1835 by William Shipman (Dorrance, W.H., “Sugar Islands: The 165-Year Story of Sugar in Hawaii”). By 1874, Hilo had become Hawaii’s third-largest port, primarily shipping sugar (Hawaii County Historical Society records).

Hilo has demonstrated remarkable resilience following two devastating tsunamis. The 1946 tsunami claimed 159 lives across Hawaii, with 96 in Hilo alone, destroying much of the bayfront area (Pacific Tsunami Museum, 2023). The 1960 tsunami caused further destruction, prompting the creation of the Pacific Tsunami Warning System and the transformation of vulnerable coastal areas into public parks (Dr. Walter Dudley, Professor Emeritus of Marine Science, University of Hawaii).

According to Hilo historian Sarah Wilcox of the East Hawaii Historical Society, “Hilo’s story is one of adaptation and perseverance. Despite natural disasters, the community has repeatedly rebuilt while preserving its unique cultural heritage and close connection to the land.

Discover the Best Things to Do in Hilo town

Hilo town feels like time stood still with these western/Hawaiian style of architecture that are fun to explore. Enjoying the slow pace, appreciate the simple things, daily occurrences, shopping at the farmers market, a walk around Liliuokalani gardens, smelling the amazing tropical flowers or just a lazy afternoon in an aqua colored lagoon is all part of the discovery in town.

You’ll find wonderful things unravel and show you how special Hilo and East Hawaii is when you explore some of the beauty around the east side of the island. Whether you check out the waterfalls, farmers market or botanical gardens in the area, Hilo definitely has a lot of charm and that special Hawaii vibe that everyone dreams about.

The closest airport to Hilo is right at HIlo International Airport just outside of the downtown area.

Here’s a quick tour through old town Hilo below

What’s the best time to visit Hilo?

The BIg island and HIlo, Hawaii is a year round destination and tends to be busy during the summer holiday season and mostly winter season when visitors to the island want to avoid cold temperatures from where they come from. Visiting Hilo during the shoulder season in spring and fall time frames is actually when the weather is quite pleasant, there are less visitors because it is before the holiday season and prices for hotels and entertainment tend to be cheaper during those timeframes.

The summer is popular with highs in Hilo and East Hawaii in the high 70s to low 80s and in the wintertime the highs in the mid 70s range. Wintertime is the rainy season, so the weather tends to be more unpredictable and wetter on the east side of the island.

Here’s the top 38 things to do in Hilo Hawaii

There’s so much to see around Hilo outside of just the old downtown district. Check out these popular attractions to visit in the area.

1. Check out downtown Hilo

Start off your tour of downtown Hilo walking around the historic district with the Bayfront buildings, admire the beautiful architecture, cool shops and boutique stores, museums and a variety of the fun attractions around town and the surrounding areas of East Hawaii.

The small downtown district of Hilo is basically two parallel streets with the main waterfront buildings facing Hilo Bay. Filled with unique mom and pop shops, art galleries and boutique stores, delicious local food restaurants and fun snack shops peddling shave ice and mochi cakes, you’ll love exploring the downtown district. One of the best things to do in Hilo freee is this fantastic walking tour of the historic architecture, parks and other attractions in town.

So much color and art even on the building facades with beautiful murals and street art depicting local scenes, culture and Hawaiian traditions around the entire historic district. There’s also a profusion of art shops and boutique stores, a revised and colorful farmers market, and delicious food venues to enjoy.

Tip – while your walking around town, check out all the cool and colorful murals popping up unexpectedly around town. It makes for some fun Instagram spots around town to capture your visit down town.

For fun, check out my short Hilo video tour here

Visit Hilo’s unique museums

Hilo hosts several exceptional museums that showcase the island’s rich history and culture:

2. Pacific Tsunami Museum

($8 adults, $4 children) – Housed in a former bank building, this museum documents the devastating tsunamis of 1946 and 1960 through survivor stories, scientific exhibits, and historical photographs. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm.

3. Lyman Museum and Mission

House ($10 adults, $8 seniors, $3 students) – This Smithsonian-affiliated museum features extensive exhibits on Hawaiian natural history and multicultural heritage. The adjacent Mission House, built in 1839, is the island’s oldest standing wood structure. Open Monday-Saturday, 10am-4:30pm.

4. Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

(Free) – Perfect for families, this interactive center focuses on the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands marine ecosystem with a 3,500-gallon saltwater aquarium, interactive displays, and educational programs. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9am-4pm.

Hilo’s beautiful waterfalls

One of the most iconic waterfalls and Hilo attraction to visit is Rainbow falls which is part of the Wailuku State park system, Hilo’s waterfalls are plentiful and easy to explore.

5. Visiting Rainbow falls

Rainbow Falls is just of Wainuenue avenue. Easy parking and short drive from the historic district, Rainbow falls is an iconic photo op and you can also climb up a set of stairs to see the falls from above and also walk into a forested area behind with one of the largest banyan groves on the island.

5. Boiling Pots / Pe’e Pe’e falls

Another cool visit further down the road to the Boiling Pots and Pe’e Pe’e falls is another fantastic viewpoint to the lush canyons, rushing river and beautiful waterfalls in the background.

6. Narnia Falls

A popular local hike and waterfall visit is at Narnia located off a fire road above Hilo town.

If you are in the mood for a hike and viewing spectacular falls, check out Narnia Falls for something unique to visit above Hilo Town. To find the trail head keep driving up Wainuenue Avenue a half mile until you cross a bridge that will have views to another set of waterfalls called Wai’ale falls

All the waterfalls are fantastic to view from the lookout points, but please do not wander off beyond the lookout points for your own safety.

Here’s a sweet tour of Rainbow falls in Hilo

7. Explore Kaumana Caves

If you’re into unique and cool recreation activity, how about exploring the Kaumana caves just above Hilo town off Kaumana Drive are the Kaumana Caves . The caves are dank old, dark and mysterious for those that love visiting unusual, lush and unique attractions in any city.

The caves are part of Kaumana Caves State Park with free parking and entrance on site. Developed from a lava flow in 1881 from Moana Loa, this lava tube is broken into two sections that you can explore on your own. Down a short flight of ladders and stairs leads you through a lush canopy of vegetation into one of the main openings which is filled with boulders and an adventure to explore.

Tip – be sure to bring a flashlight, sturdy shoes and maybe an umbrella if weather is changing in the park area. There are picnic tables and restrooms at the park if you want to spend more time in the area.

8. Hilo Farmers Market

One of the fun Hilo activities is to visit the local farmers market. If you are in an exploring mode to discover some of Hilo’s unique and delicious fruits, snacks and other take away foods or just looking for some souvenirs, then check out the Hilo Farmers Market. Open daily but more active and fuller during the Saturday and Wednesday market, you’ll love exploring the market in downtown Hilo.

Make sure to sample some of the unique in season tropical fruits, a refreshing lilikoi ice drink, some mochi snacks or even more filling bento box treats for a bigger meal. Wednesday and Saturdays are larger with vendors selling arts and crafts, souvenirs or other locally hand made goods for visitors looking to take some inexpensive treasures, t shirts or collectibles from the islands.

Tip – there is a food court at the farmers markets with food trucks if you are looking for a bigger meal and local food to try from the area. There’s tables and even entertainment happening on the bigger market days like Wednesday and Saturdays.

Here’s a clear outline of the Hilo Farmers Market details:

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🕒 Hours of Operation

• Big Market Days (Wednesday & Saturday):
  • 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM (busiest and largest selection of vendors)
• Smaller Market Days (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday):
  • 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Limited number of vendors compared to main days

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💵 Entry Fee

• Free to enter
  • Open to the public with no admission charge

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📍 Location

• Address:
  Corner of Mamo Street & Kamehameha Avenue
  Downtown Hilo, Hawai‘i Island

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📌 General Information

• What You’ll Find:
  • Local fruits and vegetables
  • Tropical flowers
  • Handmade crafts, art, and jewelry
  • Local food vendors and snacks
  • Hawaiian products and souvenirs
• Best Time to Visit:
  • Early morning for the freshest produce and fewer crowds
  • Wednesdays and Saturdays offer the fullest experience
• Parking:
  • Free and metered street parking nearby
  • Paid parking lots also available within walking distance
• Payment:
  • Many vendors accept cash only
  • Some may accept cards or mobile payments, but not guaranteed
• Restrooms:
  • Public restrooms available nearby

Check out the video visit to the Hilo Farmers Market video below

9. Visit Coconut Island

Wondering what else to see in Hilo that is fun, family friendly and just off Hilo bay? A visit to Coconut island (Moku Ola – meaning island of life) is a must and easy to do crossing a short footbridge to the isolated island that used to be a spiritual place of refuge on the bay. Considered a historic place of refuge in ancient times where villagers would swim to the island for refuge from committing a taboo or broken a rule that could easily be punished with immediate death.

Now the island is geared towards recreation and picnics, little beaches to lounge in and jumping off the lava rock pillars that local children flock to for a free thrill jumping from above the rock tower into the cool aqua cove that is fun to do or just enjoy watching.

Tip – This is a fantastic place for capturing pictures of Hilo Bay, historic downtown and views of neighboring Liliuokalani gardens and watching local kids jump off the popular lava tower into the small cove.

Here’s a quick video tour of Coconut Island from above and various vantage points

10. Scenic Queen Liliuokalani Gardens

This 25-acre Japanese garden, established in 1917, is the largest ornamental Japanese garden outside Japan and offers spectacular views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea. – Location: 189 Lihiwai St, Hilo (across from Hilo Hawaiian Hotel) – Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset – Admission: Free – Parking: Free parking lot on Banyan Drive – Accessibility: Paved, flat pathways suitable for wheelchairs and strollers – Estimated visit time: 30-60 minutes Garden highlights include: – Authentic Japanese stone lanterns and pagodas – Multiple arched bridges spanning tranquil fishponds – Dedicated bonsai garden with specimens over 100 years old – Japanese tea house offering complimentary traditional tea ceremony demonstrations (Saturdays 1pm-3pm) – Bamboo section with over a dozen rare Hawaiian bamboo varieties The garden was created in honor of Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, and pays tribute to the Japanese immigrants who worked Hawaii’s sugar plantations. The 1946 tsunami extensively damaged the garden, but it was later restored with many of its original features. For the best photos, visit during early morning when Mauna Kea is visible in the background and reflections on the ponds are most vibrant.

Local tip: Cross the footbridge at the garden’s edge to Moku Ola (Coconut Island), where you can watch local youth jump from the tower platform into the cove – a tradition practiced for generations.

Here’s a nice quick video tour of Liliuokalani gardens in Hilo

11. Hilo Mooheau Bandstand

One of the most unique things to do in Hilo is to visit this Victorian inspired bandstand on the waterfront area. The Mooheau Bandstand has a historic past and holds a variety of political rallies, music events, hula shows and other gatherings on a regular basis.

It’s a good spot to for quiet picnics among the giant banyan trees surrounding the park and nice views of Hilo bay and photo ops of Hilo’s scenic waterfront area.

Sweet Hilo beaches

One of the fun Hilo activities is to visit some of the cool beaches which are small with family friendly spots, coves, lagoons and unique beaches in town and the surrounding areas. Most of the large canoe regattas and sailing happens right on Hilo Bay.

12. Reeds Bay

In town you can visit the main waterfront beach area of Hilo Bay, Coconut Island and Reeds Bay. Just down the road there is a string of lovely little beaches including Onekahakaha Beach, Carl Smith Beach and Richardson Beach where you can spot green sea turtles and colorful tropical fish hanging out just offshore.

13 Richardsons Ocean Park

One of the most popular local beaches is Richardson Ocean Park. Located at the end of the string of Hilo beaches, Richardson Ocean Park has a black sand beach and a variety of lagoons and ponds to explore.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free
• Notes: Good for snorkeling and turtle sightings. Lifeguards on duty. Limited parking. Sandy and rocky areas.

14. Carlsmith Beach

A unique lagoon with sandy bottom and other pond areas, Carlsmith is a local favorite with hot and cold water filtering through the lagoon area and gorgeous scenery with striking lava rocks and green grassy areas to relax in.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free
• Notes: Popular for swimming in protected lagoons. Calm waters. Often see turtles. Well-maintained facilities.

15. Leleiwi Beach Park

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free
• Notes: Tidepools and reef areas for snorkeling. Picnic areas and restrooms available.

16. Onekahakaha Beach Park

A family friendly beach park with a protected lagoon and beach area that is popular with locals and safe for children.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free
• Notes: Most family-friendly in Hilo with a shallow, sandy-bottomed swimming area. Lifeguard station, playground, and sheltered pavilions.

17. Honolii Beach

Mostly a surfing and body boarding beach north of Hilo with sandy and gravel beach with lifeguards and other amenities.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free
• Notes: the main surfind beach area of Hilo, scenic and peaceful. Some picnic facilities. Rougher shoreline with waves

Carlsmith is one of the jewel like lagoons to visit here in Hilo

18. Kamehameha statue and Wailoa park

Standing proudly in the center of Wailoa State park is the statue of King Kamehameha (the first king that united the Hawaiian islands). One of four statues made of the king, this one being the tallest at 14 feet, the statue was originally to be placed at a Princeville resort in Kauai.

But since Kauai was never conquered by Kamehameha, the statue was donated to the city of Hilo since it was one of his political centers of power on the island. Once a year on Kamehameha day, the statue is festooned with large gorgeous leis on his arm as a tribute to the king.

Tip – cross the unique bridges that span the Wailoa River and check out the Wailoa Art Center which features ongoing Hawaii inspired art exhibits and artists from the island and neighbor islands.

Here’s a local video tour guide sharing his views of Kamehameha the Great at Hilo

19. Hilo Zoo and botanical garden

The small Hilo zoo called Pana’ewa is small, sweet and a lovely visit to see some of the indigenous animals and 80 other animal species. Closed during covid, it has gone through renovations and is recently reopened for visitors to enjoy the zoo.

What makes this zoo special is the rainforest botanical garden that is fun to explore with all the animals located in this tropical garden filled with orchids, bromeliads, tropical rhododendrons, palm trees and various tropical plants and flowers that makes this a special place to explore. There is also a family friendly kid petting zoo that is fun to explore with children in the park.

Tip – the gardens and parking is free to enjoy, but they do accept donations to keep the grounds operating.

Here’s some video highlights to visiting the Hilo Pana’ewa zoo

20. Mauna Loa Macadamia Farms

One of the one of a kind Hilo attractions is to visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia nut farm. If you haven’t been to a macadamia nut farm, one of the largest is just outside Hilo at the Mauna Loa Macadamia nut farm. Offering free DIY tours of the facility plus free tasting of their complete line of chocolate, sweet to savory macadamia nuts, you’ll enjoy the tour, samples and even a sweet garden in the back area of the tasting room for free.

Check out this other fun HIlo things to do video here

21 Enjoy the local Shave Ice in Hilo

There are so many fantastic Shave Ice places to visit and enjoy this frozen desert in the city or enjoy it at the beach. Top places to experience the shave ice scene here in Hilo includes:

Wilson’s By The Bay: Wilson’s is a well-known shave ice stand located in Hilo. They offer a variety of flavors and toppings to choose from, and they are often praised for their generous portions.

Da Hawaiian Brain Freeze Shave Ice & Ice Cream: Located in the Hilo Shopping Center, this local favorite spot offers both ice cream and shave ice treats that’s yummy and a must visit spot.

Hilo Ice Shave: another local favorite spot on Manono street offering fantastic syrups and toppings to make your shave ice experience extra yummy and fun.

Try some local poke in Hilo

Hilo is where it is at to experience amazing poke with really fresh fish from the area. You’ll find so many local favorites with poke bows and custom poke choices and toppings. Here are some of our favorite places to enjoy.

22. Suisan Fish Market

Suisan is a local favorite and is often regarded as one of the best places for poke in Hilo. They offer a wide variety of poke options, and their fish is fresh and high-quality. You can also purchase fresh seafood from their market.

23. Poke to Your Taste

This food truck offers a customizable poke experience. You can choose your fish, sauce, and toppings to create a poke bowl tailored to your preferences.

24. Island Naturals Market & Deli

This health food store has a deli section where you can find fresh poke options along with a variety of salads and other healthy choices.

25. Friday night market in Hilo

Downtown Hilo has a festive Friday night on the corner of Kilauea and Wainuenue each Friday at the corner open lot that is converted into a fun night market with live music, entertainment, shopping booths and plenty of local food booths to try. This is an easy and fun way to enjoy the local scene and try some great foods for Friday night fun in Hilo

26. Hidden Nene

HIlo’s cool speakeasy bar in a basement that is really hip and luxe like with gorgeous interiors and amazing drinks. Match that with fantastic bartenders, pupus and service and you’ve got the perfect combination of a fun bar to visit in town.

27. Cool Happy Hour venue at Jackie Reys

An old bank turned restaurant with a very hip bar scene and happy hour. Get to Jackie Reys early for their fun Happy Hour scene, or you can just hang out for a really nice dinner/lunch meal with beautiful surroundings and excellent food and service.

Related post – Check out my post on the most popular places to eat in Hilo here for inspiration to eating around the east side of Big Island

Things to do near Hilo and outside attractions

28. Visit Akaka Falls

An iconic Hilo attraction to visit right away is Akaka Falls. Take a nice easy road trip down the Hamakua coastline to visit the scenic botanical garden and dramatic Akaka Falls. Along the way is the sleepy but colorful town called Honomu which is worth a stop for snacks and curio shopping. But the star Akaka Falls which is one of the most majestic and scenic vistas with a botanical garden to explore with gorgeous bamboo, tropical flowers and lush vegetation.

On the way to Akaka Falls is the small town of Honomu which is fun to stop and try some local snacks, visit the shops and art galleries and support local businesses in the area.

29. Explore Onomea Bay and a lush botanical garden

Just outside Hilo along the Hamakua coast is the scenic Onomea Bay with beautiful overlooking points and a short hike lovingly called Donkey trail down to the bay below. The walk is easy on paved trails down to various water areas and a small waterfall feature in the end or you can explore more of the botanical garden next door at Hawaii Tropical Botanical garden with all the extensive and lush tropical gardens located in this private estate.

If you continue past the botonical garden towards the ocean you’ll arrive at the base of Onomea waterfalls which opens up directly into the bay and ocean.

Further down the Onomea scenic drive is a cool tropical smoothie hut where you can sample some of the best tropical smoothies on the island with fresh Hawaiian fruits in season. Eventually the road connects back to the main belt highway that leads to Waimea or back to Hilo town.

Here’s a video tour to Onomea Bay and the botanical garden from above and scenic vista points

30. Check out Honomu town

Just 11 miles north of Hilo and 4 miles before Akaka Falls, the charming plantation town of Honomu offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s sugar-era past. Its colorful wooden storefronts along the main street house:

– Mr. Ed’s Bakery – Known for their fresh malasadas (Portuguese donuts) and tropical fruit pies made with local ingredients. Open daily 7am-3pm.

– Honomu Gallery & Gift Shop – Features work from over 30 local artists with unique pieces ranging from affordable souvenirs to fine art. Open daily 9am-5pm.

– Honomu Goat Dairy – Sample artisanal goat cheeses made on-site and watch the goats during feeding time (10am and 2pm daily). Tours available by appointment. –

Abundant Life Natural Foods – A small health food store offering organic produce, prepared foods, and locally-made wellness products.

Allow at least 45 minutes to explore this walkable town, or longer if you plan to enjoy a meal. Free street parking is available along the main road.

31. Volcanoes National Park

About forty minutes drive down Highway eleven leads to Volcanoes National Park, the top attraction to visit in East Hawaii. The national park is alive with volcanic eruptions, steam clouds mixed with lava, earthquakes happen constantly making this an ever changing national park. You can base yourself in Volcano Village which has all the amenities you need and also lots of fun attractions to explore in the village.

It is lively, colorful and historic with thousands of acres of lava fields, a huge caldera and crater in the center of the park to lush forests of Hapu’u ferns, Ohia trees and other native vegetation. Check out this post on visiting Volcanoes National Park now for more inspiration to seeing nature and the continual lava eruptions at Volcanoes National Park at its most dramatic best in the park.

32. Volcano Village

The Village area of Volcano is a great place to stay overnight, grab a bite or nicer dining venues in town just a short drive from the national park. Also in town, you can visit some of the cool art centers, galleries and other unique shops to explore in the town filled with many creative artists studios that feature local artists in the area.

Check out my post to visiting Volcano Village here for more inspiration.

Explore Puna’s Red Road

Old Hawaii is alive along the red road, the scenic eastern loop road filled with beautiful tree tunnels, hidden beaches, roadside and fruit stands around the Puna District.

33. Visit historic Pahoa town

Starting from Pahoa town, driving here will give you a real taste of old Hawaii from Pahoa to Opihikao and even to the new black sand beach at Pohoiki that was created with the lava eruptions on the east side of Hawaii Island in 2018.

34. Lava Tree State Park

Along the way to the Red Road, make sure you check out the strange lava molds and botanical garden at Lava Tree State Park, the beautiful and spooky MacKenzie State Park, and the gorgeous folk style interiors of the Painted Church in Kalapana.

35. The largest outdoor market in Puna at Makuu market

If you visit the the Red Road on Sundays, check out the Maku’u Market just outside of Pahoa town, it’s the main thing to do in town on Sundays.

36. Explore the Red road and puna coastline

This drive to the Red road is fabulous and you’ll love seeing the lush vegetation, newly created black lava fields and windy roads under tree tunnels with ocean views to enjoy along the way.

You can drive or even bike the Red Road – here’s a fun video tour driving the Red Road below

37. Fun activities and adventure on the Hilo side

If you are looking for more fun adventure and activities to do on the east side of the island, check out all these cool activities to do below.

HIlo turtle lagoon and black sand beach experience

– Hilo Turtle Lagoon & Black Sand Beach Experience ($79/adult, $59/child) – Duration: 4 hours (8:30am-12:30pm daily) – Includes: Transportation, professional guide, snorkel equipment, light refreshments

– Highlights: Guided snorkeling at Carlsmith Beach’s turtle lagoons and Richardson’s Black Sand Beach

Big Island hilo from above, rain forest, waterfalls and coastline tour

– Helicopter Rainforest & Waterfall Tour ($299/person) – Duration: 50 minutes (multiple departures daily) – Includes: Noise-canceling headsets, window seating guaranteed

– Highlights: Aerial views of Mauna Kea, Waianuenue (Rainbow) Falls, Wailuku River, lush rainforests and remote waterfalls inaccessible by land

– Departure point: Hilo International Airport

– Weight restrictions: Maximum 250 lbs per person, total passenger weight must be provided at booking

Hilo Bay legends and waterfalls tour

Hilo Bay Legends & Waterfalls Zodiac Tour ($129/adult, $99/child) – Duration: 3 hours (9am and 1pm departures) – Includes: Professional guide, safety gear, bottled water and local snacks

– Highlights: Close-up views of Wailuku River’s waterfalls, cultural storytelling, chance to see spinner dolphins

– Departure point: Wailoa State Park boat ramp

– Minimum age: 6 years, not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems

38. Enjoy the largest mall at Prince Kuhio Center

The largest shopping center in Hilo is located at Prince Kuhio Shopping Center with a large mall, food court and restaurants and a movie theater complex. If you want to find local products and souvenirs and shop local galleries and stores, then head out to Kuhio mall for some easy and fun shopping in the area.

Where to stay in Hilo

There are wonderful local inns, BnB’s and hotels that are unique and easy to stay in Hilo as a base, check out all these well reviewed places below.

Grand Naniloa Double Tree – A fantastic location on Banyan drive with bay and ocean views and comfortable modern rooms and amenities. Includes free wifi and 9 hole golf course across from the property

Hilo Seaside Hotel – located on Banyan drive with easy access to beach, attractions and parks. Comfortable and spacious rooms, nice public areas and a wonderful and friendly staff, restaurant and services.

Hilo Bay Ocean Front Bed and Breakfast – Beautiful accommodations and location right on the bay in this classic Hawaiiana home with excellent service, strong wifi and a full Hawaiian breakfast.

Check out these top reviewed hotels on Trip Advisor here for more details, availabiity and prices.

Check out these other Big Island things to do around the island

Check out these other places to visit or some ideas and tips to exploring the Big Island of Hawaii.

Must visit Big Island Waterfalls

Free of cheap things to do on the Big Island

Check out the Top things to do in Kona and the west side of the island

A family friendly visit to the Big Island – a guide to family adventure and activities on the island

Kona snorkel and cruise experience along the gorgeous Kona coast to the Red Cliffs area in South Kona

A visit to the beautiful Kua Bay and beach area

A gorgeous hike and beach time at Makalawena Beach

Hiking around the Big Island of Hawaii

How to get around Hilo town

Getting around Hilo town is relatively straightforward, and there are several convenient options to explore this charming Hawaiian destination:

1. Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Hilo and its surroundings. There are various car rental agencies available at Hilo International Airport. Having a rental car gives you the flexibility to visit attractions, go on scenic drives, and explore the island at your own pace.

2. Bicycles: Hilo is a bike-friendly town with bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bicycle and pedal around town to explore the local sights and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Just remember to follow traffic rules and wear proper safety gear.

3. Walking: Hilo town is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Many of its attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. Take a leisurely stroll along Banyan Drive, explore the Farmers Market, or walk along the picturesque Hilo Bay.

4. Public Transportation: Hele-On Bus provides public transportation within Hilo and the island. It’s an affordable way to get around, and you can access schedules and routes online. Keep in mind that service may be less frequent compared to larger cities.

5. Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hilo. While they can be convenient for short trips, they may not be as prevalent as in more urban areas.

6. Tours and Shuttles: Various tour companies and shuttle services offer guided tours to popular attractions and activities around Hilo. This can be a hassle-free way to explore the area, especially if you’re interested in specific tours or excursions.

Opinion: The best mode of transportation in Hilo depends on your preferences and the places you plan to visit. Renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially if you want to explore the Big Island more extensively. However, for local exploration, walking and biking can be enjoyable and eco-friendly options. Public transportation is reliable for those looking to save on costs, and tours or shuttles can provide a guided experience to specific attractions. Ultimately, your choice of transportation should align with your travel goals and the experiences you seek in Hilo.

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Conclusion on the top 38 things to do in Hilo Hawaii

You’ll love exploring the Old town district of Hilo Hawaii and the surrounding attractions and fun places just outside of town. Stay in Hilo Hawaii as your base and enjoy some of the fun things to do in Hilo to be easy and fun in this small town that is uniquely Hawaiian and full of Aloha.

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Author Bio – Noel Morata

Having lived in Hawaii for over 15 years as a professional photographer, freelance and blogging, I’ve explore all the historic and cultural sites, tried delicious traditional food, fusion and local style dishes and learned a lot about growing and sustainability.

Hawaii for me is ever changing and I visit many of these places regularly for inspiration, changes that may occur, seasonality and cultural practises. I hope to share with you all the fascinating things and places I’ve learned grown appreciation for and hope that you will find the information helpful to visiting the islands.

I love the old town vibe of Hiio and having lived in the area for over 15 years, I’m sharing all of my favorite places to visit, explore and hang out in the city.