Hilo

Hawaii

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.


Shop Book

Overview

Kailua-Kona may host more visitors, but Hilo is the beating heart of Hawai‘i Island. Hidden beneath its daily drizzle lies deep soil and soul, from which sprouts a genuine community and aloha spirit. Hilo's demographics still mirror its sugar-town roots, with a diverse mix of Native Hawaiians, Japanese, Filipinos, Portuguese, Puerto Ricans, Chinese and Caucasians.

Lonely planet’s trusted travel insurance provider

Dreaming of Hilo? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

LEARN MORE

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Take your United States (USA) trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

From Bayside to Coastside: California's San Francisco Peninsula in 10 Days

10 days / 9 nights

highlights

  1. 1Scouring for offshore whales at one of the world’s tallest lighthouses
  2. 2Hiking Monterey Bay’s sprawling coastal trails for dramatic waterfront views
  3. 3Touring an organic farm with a local farmer specializing in sustainable, small-scale agriculture
from $4,940

per person

Explore more trips

Must-see attractions

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Hilo