Hilo tours

Things to do in Hilo

Hilo is lush, laid-back, and rooted in real Hawaiian culture. Located on the east side of the Big Island, it’s where waterfalls pour into volcanic valleys and farmers’ markets buzz with local flavor. Your private tour reveals the true rhythm of Hilo — slower, greener, and more grounded than anywhere else in Hawaii. Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Hilo These highlights bring together nature, culture, and local life. Your tour weaves through waterfalls, gardens, and historic streets that showcase the soul of the island. Rainbow Falls A postcard-perfect waterfall just minutes from downtown. Early mornings reveal rainbows in the mist — framed by lava rock cliffs and tropical greenery. Liliʻuokalani Gardens The largest authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. Stroll footbridges, koi ponds, and banyan trees on a peaceful bayfront path. Hilo Farmers Market A local favorite with tropical fruit, island crafts, and fresh poke bowls. Open daily, but the full market days (Wednesday and Saturday) are packed with flavor and color. Wailuku River State Park Explore natural lava rock formations and swimming holes like Boiling Pots. The river runs deep with both beauty and Hawaiian legend. Pacific Tsunami Museum Housed in a historic bank, this small but powerful museum shares stories of resilience and recovery through survivor accounts and archival footage. ʻImiloa Astronomy Center Discover how Hawaiian navigation meets modern science. Planetarium shows and hands-on exhibits connect sky, land, and story. Coconut Island (Moku Ola) Reach this tiny offshore park by footbridge. A favorite spot for swimming, picnics, and watching locals dive from lava rock ledges. Reeds Bay Beach Park A calm swimming spot for all ages with tidepools, scenic views, and quiet spaces to unwind between more active tour stops. Naha Stone This massive lava rock near the public library is tied to the legend of King Kamehameha. Local tradition says only a true chief could lift it. Bayfront Trails and Banyan Drive Drive or stroll under banyan trees planted by famous visitors like Amelia Earhart and Babe Ruth. The coastal views are pure Hilo. Explore Hilo Off the Beaten Path Beyond the big-name stops, these local favorites add richness, quiet beauty, and authenticity to your tour. Kaumana Caves Climb down a lava tube formed by an 1881 Mauna Loa eruption. Explore cooled flows, underground tunnels, and fern-covered entrances. Waiʻolena Pools A series of natural pools just outside town. Great for a peaceful dip and one of Hilo’s best-kept secrets. Lyman Museum & Mission House A deep dive into Hawaiian natural history and missionary-era life, set inside one of the island’s oldest buildings. Hilo Da Store Not a museum — but a landmark grocery beloved by locals. Pop in for local snacks like li hing gummies or musubi wrapped in newspaper. Kaʻūmana Springs Road Scenic Drive A winding route through misty forest and past hidden homes. Serene, green, and far from the crowds. Wainaku Executive Center Viewpoint A little-known pull-off with sweeping views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea in the distance — especially striking at sunrise. Day Trip Ideas from Hilo Looking to explore beyond town? These day trip destinations add adventure and unforgettable natural beauty to your tour. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Just 45 minutes from Hilo, this park showcases active craters, lava tubes, and steaming vents. A geological wonder where the island is still being born. Pāhoa A quirky, bohemian village rebuilt after recent lava flows. Great for indie shops, geothermal parks, and catching the spirit of East Hawaii. Akaka Falls State Park A short scenic loop leads to one of Hawaii’s tallest waterfalls — a 442-foot drop framed by bamboo forest and ferns. Laupāhoehoe Point Dramatic cliffs, pounding surf, and a peaceful memorial park mark this historic site shaped by tsunami tragedy and community resilience. Travel Tips for Your Visit Before your tour, here’s what to know to enjoy Hilo’s natural wonders and relaxed pace. Best Time to Visit Hilo is lush for a reason — it gets rain often, especially at night. Mornings are typically clear. Year-round temps stay between 70–85°F. Getting Around Hilo is compact but spread out. Having your guide plan your route helps maximize time and avoid backtracking on winding roads. What to Wear Breathable clothes, sturdy walking shoes, and a rain jacket are smart choices. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a hat for sunny stretches. Local Etiquette Tips Respect for nature and quiet spaces runs deep in Hilo. Greet others with aloha, and tread lightly in sacred or natural places. Explore Hilo Your Way Hilo invites you to slow down, listen closely, and connect. Your tour moves at your pace — stopping at waterfalls, walking garden paths, or following lava trails that tell the island’s story. With your guide, your experience is private, flexible, and rooted in local insight. Backed by expert-vetted guides, 5-star reviews, and flexible cancellation, your tour in Hilo reveals the Big Island’s gentler, greener side — where the stories flow as freely as the waterfalls.