Hilo Vacations, Tourism & Travel Information

Our Take on Hilo, Hawaii

The second biggest city in Hawaii, Hilo is a popular adventurous spot in the heart of Hawaii, and there's plenty of things to do in Hilo. Besides being a popular vacation spot for honeymooners, people bring their kids here every year to experience the sights and splendor of the peaceful Pacific.  You'll love how Hilo infuses modern with ancient, combining strong Polynesian tastes with modern American splendor.  Instead of vacationing in a quieter place this summer, consider making your vacation perfect in Hilo, Hawaii's biggest Island city.

For starters, Hilo is the home to many natural points of interest, including the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo.  A very kid friendly attraction, Pana'ewa is the only zoo that is located in an actual rainforest, budding with wildlife such as rare white Bengal tigers and exotic birds.  If your kids want a different sort of adventure, consider visiting the Pacific Tsunami Museum, a museum dedicated to the two tsunamis that ravaged Hawaii in the 1900s.   

For an adventure without the kids, consider a visit to Banyan Drive, Hilos's own natural "Walk of Fame".  Many celebrities, including Richard Nixon and Babe Ruth, have planted trees on Banyan Drive, making this drive truly historic.  Banyan Drive also overlooks the Pacific, making this a popular romantic destination during the evening.  Another great romantic destination is Hilo Tropical Gardens, previously owned by a Hawaiian princess.  Lodging is widely available here, completing a romantic night out.

If you would like to pick lodging somewhere else, consider staying in downtown Hilo.  Along with many historic hotels available at affordable rates, Hilo also had traditional Hawaiian lodging available.  For more information bout Hilo, including lodging information, kid friendly attractions, romantic spots, and vacation information, read Hilo's official blog.

Hilo, Hawaii Lodging

  1. Hilo Hotels333 Iliahi St
    Hilo, HI 96720

    "1 bedroom suite at the dolphin bay hotel in may 2006 and loved it! we were impressed by its quiet, out-of-the-center-of-town loc" more on Yahoo! Travel

  2. Hilo Hotels240 Kaiulani Street
    Hilo, HI 96720

    "best place to stay in hilo" more on Yahoo! Travel

  3. Hilo Hotels71 Banyan Dr
    Hilo, HI 96720

    "this was the best location if you are staying there" more on Yahoo! Travel

  1. Hale Kai
  2. Hilo Honu Inn
  3. Emeraldview Guesthouse
  4. Wild Ginger Inn
  1. Hilo Seaside Hotel
  2. Country Club Hawaii Condo Hotel
  3. Hilo Seaside Hotel

Hilo, Hawaii Things To Do

  1. Hilo BeachesOnekahakaha Rd
    Hilo,HI,96720

    Excellent beach for anyone visiting Hilo. There is a sandy area suitable for kids ... more on yelp.com

  2. Hilo Museums130 Kamehameha Avenue
    Hilo, HI 96720-2833

    We visited the museum in early February and found it to be very interesting. The staff will discuss how ... more on Tripadvisor

  3. Keaau Zoos and AquariumsP.O. Box 738
    Kea`au, HI 96749

    Pana'ewa rainforest zoo was the most charming surprise we stumbled upon on our trip around theBig Island. It is free, and small enough to spend a little time ... more on Tripadvisor

  1. Hilo Municipal Golf Course
  2. Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
  3. Kawate Seed Shop
  4. Tropical Helicopters
  1. Mauna Loa Observatory
  2. Lyman Mission House and Museum
  3. Honoli'i Beach Park