Planning a trip to the Big Island and want to learn more about the Hilo side of the island? Scroll to find out the fun things to do in Hilo Hawaii!
This Guide to the Best Things to Do in Hilo Hawaii was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Hilo, Hawaii, is one of the more luscious places on the Big Island. Here, you will find the green rainforest that you would expect from a tropical island as opposed to the Kona side of the island, which is completely dry.
The most scenic drives on the east reveal breathtaking landscapes, making Hilo a paradise for nature lovers.
Hilo is a bustling little city with many attractions and many things to see. Some call Hilo the heart of Hawaii due to its laid-back atmosphere. It’s also home to some of the main sights on the Big Island, from lush waterfalls to historic downtown landmarks.
Here, you will find a place where the culture of Hawaii is preserved with modern accommodations. If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll love exploring art galleries in downtown Hilo, where local artists showcase their incredible work.
In this Hilo travel guide, you will learn all the top things to do in Hilo town. So, if you are wondering what to do in Hilo town while visiting this Hawaiian island, keep scrolling!
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Do you Need a Car to Explore Hilo, Hawaii?
There is absolutely no doubt about it: You will need a car if you are on the Hilo side of the island. Getting around Hilo town is not a problem. You could walk to many tourist spots and local places.
If you’re flying into the east side of the Big Island, you’ll likely arrive at Hilo Airport, which is conveniently located near many of the island’s top attractions. Renting a car from the airport makes it easy to explore everything Hilo has to offer.”
However, there are so many things to see and do on the outskirts of Hilo that you will need a car to go and see them.
But if you plan to stay within the city limits, you can get around by public transportation such as buses, taxis, or walking. Just remember to budget your travel expenses with means of transportation while in Hilo.
For example, if you want to go to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the best things to do near Hilo, you will need a car to get there.
The park is about 40 minutes away from Hilo, and no public buses take you there. Even a simple taxi ride to get you there will run you around $60 one way. Not to mention that you may not be able to call for a taxi to pick you up when you’re done.
And if you choose to go north to see Akaka Falls, you will need a vehicle to get there, too. Akaka Falls is about a 45-minute drive north, headed towards Honoka’a. The lush waterfall is found in Lapahoehoe.
By getting yourself a car, you can travel to Waipi’o Valley, a black sand beach that requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle to get down into.
Renting a car allows you to enjoy all the top things to do around Hilo easily and is worth it!
Find out more about renting a car in Hawaii.
Best Things To Do in Hilo Hawaii
Here are the best things to do in Hilo town that you won’t want to miss! From black sand beaches to botanical gardens, there’s no shortage of fun activities.
If you’re wondering what to do in Hilo town, keep reading for top attractions the entire family will love.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Depending on your time, you definitely want to stop by the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is located on this side of the island. From Hilo, it is about a 40-minute drive.
Once you’re inside the Volcanoes National Park, there are many things to do; you can easily enjoy an entire day trip here. You can explore on your own or join a Big Island volcano tour.
This park is home to lava flows that continuously shape the landscape, making it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Hawaii. If you’re up for an adventure, you can experience waterfall rappelling in nearby areas or take a scenic drive to witness Mauna Kea, the highest point in Hawaii.
From top Hilo hiking opportunities to see the Thurston Lava Tube or even Mauna Loa, this is one of the top outdoor activities around Hilo!
It is one of the best national parks to explore in Hawaii and the top free things to do on the Big Island, too!
Read my full guide about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Akaka Falls State Park
If you’re looking for a place to check out waterfalls, the best one to go to on this side of the island would be Akaka Falls. Akaka Falls is located in the County of Lapointe Way, which is roughly about 35 minutes outside of Hilo.
There, you will find a lush, kid-friendly rainforest, and you can even take your stroller down to glimpse an amazing waterfall. The path is very well-marked.
There’s even fencing around the cliff area, so you don’t have to worry about your little ones. It’s one of the best cheap things to do on the Big Island with kids.
And if you choose to go north of Hilo to see Akaka Falls State Park, you will need a vehicle to get there, too. Akaka Falls State Park is about a 45-minute drive north, headed towards Honoka’a.
The park offers well-maintained nature trails, giving you an up-close look at Hawaii’s tropical flora.
Make sure to check for any entrance fee updates before heading out.
Rainbow Falls
For more things to do in Hilo, check out Rainbow Falls.
Located in the Wailuku River State Park, you can easily see this waterfall from the parking lot! You can also take a short hike to see the Hilo Hawaii Rainbow Falls. Sometimes, it is roaring full of water, while other times, it is a small trickle.
This is one of the fun things to do in Hilo when it rains so you can see the huge waterfall!
Read more about the best Big Island waterfalls.
Banyan Drive and Lili’uokalani Gardens
Another one of the main sights in Hilo is Banyan Drive in the center of Hilo. There, you will find remarkable Banyan trees that are so huge and so beautiful. They grow so tall because Hilo is on the wet side of the island.
Just a short walk from Banyan Drive, you’ll find Japanese gardens at Lili’uokalani Park. These beautifully landscaped gardens feature suspension bridges, koi ponds, and scenic walking paths that make for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
You’ll be amazed at how lush and green everything there is. You can walk through the trees and the park area. Your kids will love the cute little river that flows through the garden area.
The combination of these two attractions makes it a fun way to experience Hilo’s natural beauty while enjoying a bit of history.
Downtown Hilo
If you are a history buff, you may want to check out Downtown Hilo, where you will enjoy plenty of historical sites.
It is also a great place to explore the local culture, with shops to find some souvenirs, delicious places to grab a bite to eat, and much more.
Downtown Hilo is also home to art galleries, charming shops, and great local eateries.
If you’re looking for live entertainment, check out the historic Palace Theater, where you can catch musical performances, plays, and even film screenings.
Go Hiking
Hilo is such a remarkable little town that no matter where you turn, you can find a trail leading up into a lush rainforest area or to a lookout point.
Now, if you start at the pier where the cruise ships come in, you’ll find little trails that veer off to the left and right that will take you to different beaches.
Of course, if you decide to go up the volcano area, there are also tons of places to hike. You’ll find the best hiking Hilo offers right in the National Park, as well as other scenic spots near Akaka Falls State Park.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
You will find beautiful tropical flowers and plants at the Hilo Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. The one in Hilo is located at the University of Hawaii.
Driving 15 minutes from Hilo, you will find the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden, which offers a unique experience for nature lovers. At this one, you can enjoy streams, waterfalls, and other tropical plants along the Hamakua Coast.
If you want to enjoy the beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island, take some time to visit one of these botanical gardens.
Read more about it in our Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden Review here.
Imiloa Astronomy Center
Also located at the University of Hawaii is the Imiloa Astronomy Center. Here, you can learn more about ancient Hawaiian culture and how they explored the stars.
The center features interactive exhibits that make it a great learning experience for both kids and adults. It’s also a fantastic indoor activity if you’re looking for things to do in Hilo town on a rainy day.
If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to visit early before the crowds arrive.
Carlsmith Beach Park
You will want to enjoy the beach while you are in Hilo. The Carlsmith Beach Park is a stunning one to enjoy. Here, you will find a coral reef and lava rocks surrounding an area of water that makes it like an outdoor pool!
Since the area is sheltered, the waves are not big most of the time, so you can go snorkeling around the reef, too. It is one of the most family-friendly snorkeling spots in Hilo.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot sea turtles swimming in the calm waters!
Richardson Ocean Park
For another excellent beach option, head to Richardson Ocean Park along Hilo Bay. It offers one of the black sand beaches on the island and is another kid-friendly beach on the Big Island.
There are some tide pools here, along with super calm waters. It is excellent for snorkeling, too!
Richardson Beach Park is unique because it is also a green sand beach. If you look closely, you will see both black and green sand!
Visiting this beach is one of the top things to do in Hilo with kids!
Pacific Tsunami Museum
The Pacific Tsunami Museum is another one of the activities in downtown Hilo, Hawaii Big Island. Her,e you can learn about tsunamis and how to protect yourself. It is also a museum to honor the lives lost from past tsunamis.
Hilo town was hit hard by a tsunami in 1946, making this an important historical and educational site. The museum features survivor stories, scientific explanations, and a look at how the community has rebuilt over the years.
This is an excellent stop if you are looking for what not to miss in Hilo Hawaii, especially if you’re interested in learning about the island’s history.
Hilo Farmers Market
There are a few farmer’s markets on the Big Island, and the Hilo Farmers Market is definitely one you want to stop at.
At the Hilo Farmers Market, you can enjoy just about anything! From tropical fruits and fresh macadamia nuts to handmade souvenirs and fresh local coffee, this market is a treasure trove of Hawaiian goods.
The best about this Hilo market is that it is open seven days a week! I think it is the best farmers market on the Big Island and one of the main sights in Hilo you’ll want to see.
Hilo Farmers Market. Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Daeja Fallas
Be sure to stop and check out the different vendors if you are here on the weekend and can catch the Farmer’s Market. You’ll find various treats, from Babinka to sushi rolls and even Spam Musubi.
And don’t forget to grab shave ice with ice cream in the center for an added treat.
Lyman Museum and Mission House
Another cultural thing to see in Hilo is the Lyman Museum and Mission House. The Lyman Museum is a self-guided tour, while the Mission House has a guided tour option!
At this natural history museum, you will find tons of artifacts and exhibits showing the ancient Hawaiian culture; it is pretty fascinating!
The Mission House portion of the museum offers guided tours, giving visitors insight into what life was like for early missionaries in Hawaii.
If you’re interested in history and Hawaiian culture, this is one of the fun things to do in Hilo that shouldn’t be skipped.
Admission is very cheap, with tickets $7 and under!
Go on a Boat Tour
Enjoy a scenic day trip along the coast with a boat tour around Hilo and the Hamakua Coast! You will see stunning sea cliffs, lush landscapes, and both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes from the water.
Many tours offer close-up views of waterfalls that cascade into the ocean, making this a truly incredibly scenic adventure.
This boat tour is about 3 hours and is quite relaxing. Kids ages 8 and older can attend. Only 6 people are allowed during the tour, so you have a nice, small group.
Hilo Brewing Company
Want to try some Hawaii beer? Then head to Hilo Brewing Company! Unfortunately, it is currently temporarily closed.
They offer a tasting room where you can try some flights of these delicious beers to see which one is your favorite!
While it is not a kid-friendly activity, it is one of the Hilo Hawaii things to do for adults!
Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive
You can head north of Hilo towards Waipi’o Valley to enjoy the Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive. This is one of the most scenic drives on the Big Island, offering lush rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal views.
You will see tons of gorgeous beaches with all types of colored sand, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and gardens.
Try going on a Hamakua Coast scenic drive on a rainy day in Hilo!
Enjoy a Zipline Tour
Driving about 20 minutes, you can go on an incredible zipline tour! You will get to enjoy 7 different ziplines, including one that goes close to Kolekole Falls!
This place is close to Akaka Falls State Park so that you can enjoy both in one day!
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
Another of the best places to visit in Hilo, Hawaii, is the Panaewa Zoo! When you visit Hilo Zoo, you will see all sorts of animals, making it the perfect place to enjoy with your kids.
It is the only tropical zoo on the island! You will see some tigers, alligators, snakes, monkeys, birds, and so much more.
This tropical zoo has free admission, so head to the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo for some cheap Hilo fun!
Lavaloha Chocolate Farm
Have you seen how chocolate is grown and made? Head to Lavaloha Chocolate Farm in Hilo to check it out. It is definitely a must-do in Hilo, Hawaii!
For a unique experience, consider joining one of the farm tours in the area. These tours allow you to explore local farms, learn about sustainable agriculture, and even sample fresh tropical fruits.
Here, you can go on a tour to explore all the farm does. You will also get to taste some samples along the way.
Read my full Big Island Chocolate Tour review HERE.
Visit Coconut Island
Also called Mokuola Island, Coconut Island is a fun adventure in Hilo. It is located in Hilo Bay and has a few beaches, picnic tables, and more to enjoy.
Older kids love to jump off the small stone tower into the ocean, while families can relax and enjoy a peaceful afternoon here.
To reach Coconut Island, simply park and walk across a suspension bridge that connects it to the mainland. It’s a great spot for a quick visit, especially if you’re already exploring downtown Hilo.
Doors-On Helicopter Tour
If you want to see more of the Big Island’s beauty quickly, you can go on a helicopter tour. These usually leave from the Hilo Airport so that you can enjoy all the beauty surrounding you during your stay.
With this helicopter tour, you will see the rainforest, waterfalls, and volcanoes!
If you want a thrilling adventure, try this tour out!
Go Shopping
As for shopping, you will find all your necessities within the city limits. There are grocery stores and even a small mall that allows you to buy clothing and other things while on vacation.
If you decide to cruise down the main strip of Hilo, you will find boutique shops just as you would on the Kona side of the island. Head to a gift shop here and enjoy getting souvenirs for your trip!
Grab a Bite to Eat
If there is one place that you should eat in Hilo, it is, hands down, Cafe Pesto.
Found on the main strip in Hilo, this little restaurant has won several awards for extraordinary service and fantastic food. There is something for everyone at this place. They serve lunch and dinner that has an island flair with modern dishes. It is one of the best places to eat in Hilo.
You’ll want to try their amazing Thai Chili Shrimp Pizza. It is the right amount of zest and sweet. Or if you are in for lunch, go for one of their delicious sandwiches like the Halakalua. It has kalua pork or turkey in a mango chutney sauce that is to die for.
There are, of course, other fabulous places to eat. You’ll find that the Hilo side does offer luaus at some of their more refined hotels and resorts.
But if you are on a budget, you can always find regular fast-food places like Subway, Arby’s, Jack in the Box, or even McDonald’s.
Things to Do in Hilo Hawaii FAQs
Yes, Hilo is a pretty safe area of the Big Island. Of course, you’ll want to follow common sense safety precautions like not leaving valuables in your car and keeping doors locked.
It really depends on what you’d like to do. Kona has more resorts, but Hilo is closer to waterfalls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s ideal if you can do a split stay so you can see more of the Big Island.
If your main goal is to sightsee, you won’t need more than 2-3 days in Hilo. You’ll want an entire day just for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and then time to explore waterfalls, beaches, nature trails, picnic areas, and snorkeling spots.
I definitely think Hilo is worth a visit. The Volcanoes National Park and the tons of natural beauty the Hawaiian islands offer are here. The outdoor activities here are endless, and the area offers some panoramic views of Hawaii.
Hilo is known for Mauna Kea, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and has some gorgeous waterfalls, Japanese gardens, live entertainment, and art galleries. It’s also a great place to explore local coffee farms and enjoy fresh macadamia nuts.
The Hilo top things to do include visiting waterfalls, going hiking, and seeing the Volcano National Park. Kona, on the other hand, is mainly for snorkeling, relaxing on the beach at your resort, and whale watching.
Yes, the people in Hilo are friendly to tourists. It is more laid back than Kona, and you will still feel the Aloha Spirit. Many of the farm tours and cultural experiences in downtown Hilo offer a personal touch, making visitors feel welcome.
Things to Do in Hilo Hawaii Wrap-Up
Hilo is gorgeous and a great place to visit. It is one of the most beautiful parts of the Hawaiian islands, with lush nature trails, suspension bridges, waterfalls, tropical flowers, and even a green sand beach to enjoy.
These are just some of the best things to do in Hilo town, but there are tons of other options. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply a fun way to explore the island, Hilo has something for everyone.
Head down for a day trip or stay a few nights during your Hawaii vacation to fully enjoy all it has to offer.