The Hidden Small Town Gem: Hilo, Hawaii
Hilo, Hawaii, located on the lush eastern side of the Big Island, is a gem that combines natural beauty, rich culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. Unlike the sun-drenched beaches on the Kona side, Hilo is known for its rain-kissed landscapes, vibrant rainforests, and abundant waterfalls, creating a paradise for nature lovers. Lush gardens, black sand beaches, and diverse wildlife make this side of the island feel like stepping into another world.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, located just outside downtown Hilo, is a beautiful 80-foot waterfall that flows over a natural lava cave into a serene pool below. The falls get their name from the rainbows that can often be seen in the mist on sunny mornings, creating a magical, colorful display. Surrounded by dense tropical foliage, including towering banyan trees, Rainbow Falls is easily accessible and offers a viewing platform for excellent photo opportunities. A short walk brings you closer to the falls and up to a lookout above, where you can marvel at the lush scenery and the powerful flow of the Wailuku River.
Downtown Hilo
Downtown Hilo offers a blend of old and new, with its historic storefronts, art galleries, and local shops. Hilo Farmers Market is a must-visit, filled with fresh produce, tropical flowers, handmade crafts, and delicious island treats. Here, you can sample exotic fruits like rambutan and lychee or try a Hawaiian favorite, poke bowls made from fresh-caught fish. Check out the local businesses as well as the taverns and restaurants.
Weekly Events
Kukuau Studio hosts a jazz night every Monday night from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a rotating house band and the goal to “strengthen the Big Island Jazz community.”
Hilo Town Tavern hosts Karaoke night every Wednesday from 8:00 pm to close
Hilo Town Market’s Friday Night Market is every Friday from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Local vendors selling everything from jewelry, to art pieces, to clothing, to sweet treats gather with live music!
Richardson Ocean Park
Richardson Ocean Park is one of Hilo’s most popular black sand beaches, offering calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and abundant marine life. The beach's unique black and greenish sand, a result of volcanic activity, makes it a striking contrast to the turquoise waters of the Pacific. This spot is great for spotting sea turtles, which frequently swim near the shore. With tide pools, picnic areas, and clear views of Mauna Kea in the distance, Richardson Beach Park is a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
Carlsmith Beach Park
Carlsmith Beach Park, located just outside Hilo, is a stunning spot known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and picturesque lagoons. The beach is unique for its mixture of sandy areas and lava rock formations, which create natural pools ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Carlsmith is particularly popular for encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles, which often glide through the shallow waters. With lush, tree-shaded picnic areas and soft grass along the shore, it’s a peaceful retreat where locals and visitors alike can relax, enjoy the view, and connect with Hilo’s natural beauty.
Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea, the towering dormant volcano near Hilo, is Hawaii’s highest point, offering a blend of natural wonder and scientific exploration. Known for its world-renowned observatories, the summit provides some of the clearest stargazing opportunities on Earth. Though a trip to the summit requires a 4WD vehicle, the Mauna Kea Visitor Center, located at 9,200 feet, offers stargazing programs and incredible sunset views. This sacred mountain holds cultural significance for Native Hawaiians and provides a unique experience of alpine and volcanic landscapes in the heart of the Pacific.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, just outside of Hilo, is a captivating landscape where visitors can witness the ongoing formation of the island. The park features Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth. Visitors can explore lava tubes, walk across old lava flows, and take in the breathtaking sight of volcanic craters. The park’s landscapes shift from lush rainforests to barren, otherworldly terrain, making it a one-of-a-kind experience that showcases Hawaii’s geological power.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden
The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden, just north of Hilo, is a lush paradise filled with exotic plants, waterfalls, and meandering paths that immerse visitors in a vibrant tropical environment. Known for its impressive collection of over 2,000 species of plants, this bioreserve highlights the biodiversity of Hawaii's flora. The garden’s tranquil walkways lead to stunning ocean views and hidden waterfalls, making it a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
‘Akaka Falls State Park
’Akaka Falls State Park, a short drive from Hilo, is home to one of Hawaii’s most iconic waterfalls, the 442-foot Akaka Falls. The easy, self-guided trail leads through dense tropical greenery, with scenic lookouts offering stunning views of both Akaka Falls and nearby Kahuna Falls. As you walk along the path, you’ll be surrounded by towering bamboo, orchids, and other native plants. Akaka Falls is a must-see for anyone visiting Hilo, showcasing Hawaii’s natural beauty in a spectacular setting.
Conclusion
While Hilo may receive more rain than other parts of Hawaii, this rainfall is what keeps the area so green and vibrant. Each visit to Hilo is an invitation to slow down, embrace the island’s natural wonders, and explore its cultural roots. Hilo’s warmth, welcoming vibe, and stunning surroundings make it a memorable destination for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Hawaii.
We can’t wait to have you experience Maui for yourself!
Looking for a little more guidance? Feel free to stop by the Howzit Hostel reception desk. Our staff can provide more customized tips to help you make the most of your Maui vacation.