Things to do in Hilo

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Hilo which includes a bay or harbor
Akaka Falls featuring a river or creek, a waterfall and rainforest
Rainbow Falls featuring a river or creek and rapids
Hilo which includes signage
Akaka Falls featuring rainforest
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What to do in Hilo

Discover the most popular places to visit in Hilo

Beautiful beach wit massive turtles!

Carlsmith Beach Park

Explore the great outdoors at Carlsmith Beach Park, a lovely green space in Hilo.

Carlsmith Beach Park
Rainbow Falls which includes a cascade and a garden

Rainbow Falls

Rise early to come to this scenic waterfall for the best chance of seeing the beautiful rainbows that give it its name.

Rainbow Falls
Coconut Island is glowing from the morning sun. There's easily accessible swimming spots, lots of shade from large flowing trees, amazing views of Hilo Bay, Liliuokalani Park and the two hotels overlooking the bay. #hilo #hawaii #coconut #island

Coconut Island Park

Explore the great outdoors at Coconut Island Park and enjoy the volcano viewpoints during your trip to Hilo. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful waterfalls.

Coconut Island Park
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens featuring a pond

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

This serene Hilo bayfront park offers the serenity of a Japanese garden, a lush canopy of banyan trees and beautiful views from a sacred ancient Hawai’ian island.

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
Richardson\'s Ocean Park showing a beach and landscape views

Richardson's Ocean Park

Discover a world of marine science and one of the best swimming spots in the Hilo region at this family-friendly beach park.

Richardson's Ocean Park
Onekahakaha Beach Park showing rocky coastline

Onekahakaha Beach Park

Spend a sunny day exploring the hidden charms of this tranquil cove, where protected tidal pools provide ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions.

Onekahakaha Beach Park
Keaukaha Beach Park featuring rugged coastline

Keaukaha Beach Park

Snorkel in the clear waters at this beautiful spot, where gaps in the volcanic ocean floor hide a wealth of marine life.

Keaukaha Beach Park

Port of Hilo

Explore the waterfront in Hilo with a trip to Port of Hilo. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Port of Hilo

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of Hawaii at Hilo during your stay in Hilo. Wander the area's picturesque gardens or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Hilo

Richardson\'s Ocean Park which includes a park and landscape views

Keaukaha

4.5/5(15 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Keaukaha, Port of Hilo and Onekahakaha Beach Park are top sights worth seeing.

Keaukaha

Popular day trips from Hilo

Photo by Vagabond Travel Tales

Keaau

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden which includes a park and a cascade

Papaikou

Akaka Falls which includes forest scenes, a river or creek and a bridge

Hakalau

Kilauea Iki Crater which includes tranquil scenes, mist or fog and landscape views

Volcano

Frequently asked questions

Is Hilo worth visiting?
Famous for its festivals and markets, discovering awesome things to do in Hilo is easy. Don't forget to add Carlsmith Beach Park to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Hilo?
Carlsmith Beach Park and Keaukaha Beach Park are two great places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Hilo while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hilo?
Don't go home without checking out Carlsmith Beach Park, rated the top tourist attraction in Hilo.
Is three days enough to stay in Hilo?
If you only want to enjoy the most popular sights, three days will be a good amount of time for a trip to Hilo. Stay for seven to ten days for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and discover some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Hilo with kids?
Planning what to do in Hilo with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're traveling with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Hilo for adults?
Hawaiʻi Nui Brewing is one of the top things to do in Hilo. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Hilo?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Hilo is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Carlsmith Beach Park is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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