Things to do in Hilo
Discover amazing Hilo activities and premium in-home experiences.
Hilo, a vibrant city on the Big Island of Hawaii, is where lush rainforests meet breathtaking waterfalls and black sand beaches. Known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic arts scene, Hilo invites visitors to explore its farmers' markets brimming with tropical delights and enjoy leisurely strolls through charming downtown streets dotted with shops offering local crafts. Whether you're marveling at volcanic landscapes or savoring fresh poke by the bay, Hilo promises an unforgettable Hawaiian experience that blends natural beauty with island warmth.
Popular Activities in Hilo
Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars Experience
Witness a Pacific summit sunset and enjoy a guided stargazing session through a professional telescope.
Certified Beach Night Dive
Experience Hawaii Island's vibrant marine life on a guided night dive for certified adventurers
Private Big Game Fishing Charter in Hilo
Reel in Mahi Mahi and Ahi alongside an expert crew on a 4–8 hour private charter
Royal Humpback Whale Experience
Search for migrating humpbacks on a 1.5-hour boat tour off Hawaii’s coast
Sea Turtle Lagoon and Black Sand Beach Guided Snorkel
Explore vibrant marine life and volcanic beaches on a fully guided 3-hour snorkel adventure.
Two-Tank Shore Dive at Sea Turtle Cove
Discover vibrant marine life and sea turtles on a guided two-tank shore dive off Hilo’s coast
Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting
Sample 10 single-origin chocolates and explore a scenic Hawaiian cacao farm
Farm Tour and Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting
Explore a family cacao orchard and savor 10 single-origin Hawaiian chocolates.
Hamakua Chocolate Farm Tour and Tasting
Discover cacao’s journey from tree to bar and savor award-winning estate chocolates.
Hawaii Zipline Adventure Over Kolekole Waterfall
Fly across seven thrilling lines, including a 450-foot ravine, while guides share Hawaii’s nature and culture.
Guided Waterfall Hike on Private Hawaiian Land
Explore three secluded waterfalls on a small-group hike across 300 acres of private Hawaiian landscape
Big Island Botanical World 8-Line Zipline Adventure
Soar above tropical gardens and waterfalls on eight thrilling lines and a suspension bridge
Umauma Falls Nine-Line Zipline Tour
Soar over waterfalls and rainforest on a thrilling nine-line zip adventure on Hawaii's Big Island.
Explore the Wonders of Hilo
Hilo is a vibrant town on Hawaii's Big Island, where lush rainforests meet cascading waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Hilo offers an authentic Hawaiian experience away from the crowds of more touristy spots. Stroll through Liliuokalani Gardens to admire traditional Japanese landscaping or visit the bustling Hilo Farmers Market for fresh local produce and handmade crafts.
For those drawn to nature, Rainbow Falls provides a stunning backdrop just minutes from downtown. Explore Akaka Falls State Park further afield to witness even more breathtaking scenery along easy walking trails. Don't miss out on visiting the Pacific Tsunami Museum for a fascinating glimpse into how this resilient community has weathered past storms while learning about tsunami science.
Adventure seekers can embark on guided tours around Mauna Kea's summit or delve into lava tubes at Kaumana Caves Park—each offering unique perspectives of island geology that make Hilo special compared with other destinations in Hawaii. Whether you're enjoying freshly caught fish at one of many seaside eateries or soaking up panoramic ocean views along Banyan Drive’s iconic tree-lined roadways; every moment spent here promises unforgettable memories amid genuine aloha spirit.