Hilo is a town located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii in the United States. It is a beautiful destination known for its s…
Best for you if…
Hilo is a strong pick for exploring volcanoes national park & visiting rainbow falls — plan about 5-7 days days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: December to February.
Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 90/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈146.5 km span)
High season: December to February
Best months for lower-cost travel: April · September · October
September to November, average temperature: 20-25°C
March to May, average temperature: 20-25°C
June to August, average temperature: 25-30°C
December to February, average temperature: 15-20°C
Hilo, located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a beautiful destination that offers stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. If you're planning a trip to Hilo, here are a few ways to reach this charming city.
The easiest and most convenient way to reach Hilo is by air. Hilo International Airport (ITO) is served by several domestic airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. Direct flights to Hilo are available from major cities in Hawaii, such as Honolulu and Kahului, as well as from select cities on the U.S. mainland.
If you prefer a more unique and leisurely journey, you can reach Hilo by sea. Hilo Harbor welcomes cruise ships from different parts of the world, offering a scenic and memorable arrival experience. Check with your preferred cruise line for schedules and availability.
If you're already on the Big Island or planning to explore more of Hawaii's diverse landscapes, driving to Hilo is a great option. The city is easily accessible by car via the Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) from the west coast of the island. The drive to Hilo from Kailua-Kona takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Enjoy the picturesque views of lush rainforests and breathtaking coastal scenery as you make your way to Hilo.
For those who prefer public transportation, there are bus services available to Hilo from other towns on the Big Island. The Hele-On Bus system operates routes connecting Hilo with major destinations, such as Kona and Volcano. However, be sure to check the schedules in advance, as the frequency of buses may vary.
If you're an adventurous traveler or a local resident looking for a unique experience, you can reach Hilo by biking or hiking. The Big Island offers scenic routes and trails that allow you to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty. Just ensure you have the necessary permits and equipment, and plan your journey accordingly.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, reaching Hilo is well worth the effort. Prepare to be captivated by its stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, lush gardens, and warm Aloha spirit. Start planning your trip to Hilo today!
Hilo is a town located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii in the United States. It is a beautiful destination known for its stunning beaches, tropical rainforests, and picturesque waterfalls.
Visitors to Hilo can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking to see the breathtaking views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa (two of the world's largest volcanoes), exploring the lush gardens and waterfalls of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and relaxing on the black sand beaches of Punalu'u.
Additionally, Hilo is home to several cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Lyman Museum and Mission House, which offers a glimpse into Hawaii's unique history and culture. Hilo is also known for its delicious local cuisine, including fresh fish, tropical fruits, and specialty dishes like poi (a Hawaiian staple made from taro root).
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, Hilo is a must-visit destination in the United States.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
50 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~1 km · 3 places
~0.8 km · 2 places
~1.1 km · 2 places
~3.3 km · 4 places
~1.1 km · 2 places
~2 km · 4 places
~0.3 km · 2 places
~16 km · 7 places
~4.8 km · 2 places
~1.1 km · 2 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~19 km path
~16.7 km path
~34.5 km path
~54.1 km path
~54 km path
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 5-7 days days in Hilo, United States.
High season is typically December to February.
Travelers often find better value in April, September, October.
Hilo suits Exploring Volcanoes National Park, Visiting Rainbow Falls, Snorkeling at Richardson Beach Park, Hiking to Akaka Falls.
Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.
Pack lightweight clothing and sunscreen for the warm weather
Add Hilo and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.
Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes
Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.
Mexico
10 de Abril is a small town located in the state of Mexico, Mexico. Situated in the central part of the country, it is known for its rich c…
Mexico
18 de Marzo is a vibrant and culturally rich place located in Mexico. Situated in the heart of the country, this region offers a unique ble…
Mexico
31 De Octubre, Mexico is a vibrant and culturally rich place located in the heart of Mexico. This town is known for its festive atmosphere…
Canada
Abbotsford is a vibrant city located in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia, Canada. Situated approximately 70 kilometers east of…
United States
Jackson is the capital city of the state of Mississippi in the United States. It is located in the central part of the state and has a popu…
United States
Oregon is a state located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is known for its diverse landscape, which includes fores…
Nearby places worth adding to your trip
United States
Wainaku is a picturesque neighborhood located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii in the United States. This charming communit…
United States
Papa'ikou is a small unincorporated community located in the United States, specifically in the state of Hawaii. Situated on the eastern co…
United States
Papaikou is a small unincorporated community located in the state of Hawaii, United States. Situated on the eastern coast of the Big Island…
United States
Pepeekeo is a small town located in the Hilo District of Hawaii County, on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is situated on the eastern coast of…
United States
Kea'au: Exploring a Hidden Gem in the United States Nestled on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, Kea'au is a captivating small…
United States
Keaau is a small town located in the Puna District of Hawaii County, on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the United States. Situated on the eas…
United States
Kurtistown is a small unincorporated community located in the Puna District of the Big Island in Hawaii, United States. Situated approximat…
United States
Hakalau is a small Hawaiian community located on the eastern coast of the Big Island in the United States. This hidden gem is nestled in be…
