Arguably Hilo's most beautiful spot, these sprawling Japanese gardens are perfect for picnicking. Named for Hawaii's last queen (r 1891–93), the 30-acre…
Must see attractions in Hilo
- Top ChoiceLiliʻuokalani Park
- RTop ChoiceRichardson's Ocean Park
Near the end of Kalanianaʻole Ave, this little pocket of black sand is a favorite all-round beach. When calm, the protected waters are popular for…
- OTop ChoiceOnekahakaha Beach Park
Ideal for kids, this spacious beach has a broad, shallow, sandy-bottomed pool, protected by a boulder breakwater. The water is only 1ft to 2ft deep in…
- PTop ChoicePacific Tsunami Museum
You cannot understand Hilo without knowing its history as a two-time tsunami survivor (1946 and 1960). This museum encompasses only a few rooms, but they…
- PPanaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Hilo's 12-acre zoo is a terrific, family-friendly spot. Stroll along paved paths past tropical foliage to view a modest collection of tropical birds,…
- LLyman Museum & Mission House
Although small in scale, this museum is a good primer on Hawaii's natural and cultural history. Downstairs, geologic exhibits include fascinating examples…
- RRainbow Falls
A regular stop for tour buses, the lookout for this 'instant gratification' cascade is just steps from the parking lot. Depending on rainfall, the lovely…
- WWaiʻolena & Waiʻuli Beach Parks
Rocky and rugged, these side-by-side beaches (commonly known by their former name, Leleiwi Beach) aren't sandy or calm, but they're Hilo's best shore-dive…
- HHonoliʻi Beach Park
For boardsports, this is it: Hilo's only surfing and bodyboarding spot. Locals flock here for the consistent wave action, never mind the rocky beach. Don…
- MMokuola
Tiny Mokuola, commonly called Coconut Island, connects to land (near Liliʻuokalani Park) by a 250ft footbridge. The island is a county park with picnic…
- ʻʻImiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaiʻi
ʻImiloa, which means 'exploring new knowledge,' is a $28 million museum and planetarium complex with a twist: it juxtaposes modern astronomy on Mauna Kea…
- CCarlsmith Beach Park
Although this beach may look rocky, the swimming area is protected by a reef, creating a safe lagoon. The anchialine ponds, which flow to the ocean, are…
- HHawaii Japanese Center
Hawaii's Japanese immigrant community is sizable and influential, especially in Hilo. Here, learn more about this group through plantation-era artifacts,…
- EEast Hawai‘i Cultural Center/HMOCA
Curious about Hilo's art scene? Go to this downtown center, which displays well-curated works by both professionals and amateurs. Exhibits change monthly,…
- KKaumana Caves
Don't expect too much, but these two lava caves offer a mini adventure: pitch dark, sharply rocky, dripping wet, low in spots, mossy and thick with ferns…
- KKing Kamehameha Statue
At the northern end of Wailoa River State Park, a 14ft bronze statue of King Kamehameha stands facing the bay. Sculpted by R Sandrin at the Fracaro…
- NNaha & Pinao Stones
How strong was Kamehameha the Great? According to legend, anyone with enough strength to budge the 3.5-ton Naha Store would also have the strength to…
- MMaui's Canoe
See the current swirling around a large rock in the upstream Wailuku River? Legend has it that the demigod Maui paddled his canoe with such speed across…
- MMauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center
Touristy, no doubt. But mac nut fans might enjoy glimpses of Mauna Loa's plantation and working factory. From windows above, watch the prized mac nut move…
- JJames Kealoha Beach Park
Due to its rocky shoreline, this beach is geared for older kids and snorkelers. Its nickname refers to the distance between the park and the downtown post…