Hilo

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Top 10 attractions in Hilo

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Wailuku River State Park

Wailuku River State Park

4.7
5.0/5
2 reviews
Wailuku River State Park is located in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. The park centers around the Wailuku River and features lush tropical vegetation and magnificent waterfall views. Famous ones include Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. The former is 35 m high, while the latter is located upstream in the park. Visitors can follow well-maintained trails through lush tropical rainforests to enjoy views of waterfalls, streams, and diverse plant life. The park features observation decks and rest areas, making it convenient for visitors to stop and take photos. In addition, the Wailuku River is a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy kayaking and rafting. Wailuku River State Park is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also an ideal place for photographers to capture the natural beauty of Hawaii. Whether you are hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, this is an ideal destination.Hilo · 2.3 km from downtown
Rainbow Falls
No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Rainbow Falls

4.7
4.3/5
61 reviews
Rainbow Falls is located west of Hilo on the Big Island and is famous for the beautiful rainbows formed by the refraction of sunlight through its mist. Rainbow Falls is approx. 24.4m high and looks truly unique, nestled among layers of lush, vibrant tropical plants. Rainbow Falls is one of the few waterfalls on the Island of Hawai'i that flows year-round. If you visit after the rain, you can stand on the nearby bridge and hear the deafening roar of the waterfall echoing through the dense jungle.Hilo · 2.3 km from downtown
Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden

Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden

3.6
4.7/5
67 reviews
Located on the east side of the Big Island, the Botanical Garden is a species-rich nature reserve. There are more than 2,500 tropical plants from all over the world in the park, which is simply the epitome of tropical jungles, and the scenery is very spectacular. Entering the Arboretum, a 1-mile paved trail winds its way through the reserve, leading to various attractions in the Arboretum. This botanical garden is close to the beautiful bay. All the plants in the garden are marked with English names, Latin scientific names and names of the countries of origin. You can appreciate various tropical plants and learn about their characteristics.Hawaii island · 9.1 km from Hilo
Liliʻuokalani Gardens

Liliʻuokalani Gardens

3.3
5.0/5
13 reviews
Liliʻuokalani Gardens is a popular park in Hawaii, and children will definitely love it here. This 30-mile garden is named after a queen on the island. The park is near the ocean and is very beautiful, with a running path along the coast. Many locals come here to walk their dogs and go for a run. The surroundings are beautiful. When the weather is nice, you can overlook the bay. There are also many interesting shops nearby. The park is well-maintained, with beautiful water features and sculptures. Liliʻuokalani Gardens has an entirely Japanese style, and it is recommended.Hilo · 2.3 km from downtown
Hilo Bayfront Beach Park

Hilo Bayfront Beach Park

3.3
5.0/5
1 reviews
Hilo · 1.7 km from downtown
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

3.3
3.0/5
3 reviews
When you come to the Big Island of Hawaii, of course, you can't miss watching the wonders of active volcanic eruptions. The best way to see volcanoes is by helicopter. Blue Hawaii Helicopter is Hawaii's only helicopter company operating on all four major islands. The company has a history of 25 years, with advanced equipment and technology, professional staff, and Hawaii's unique Aloha spirit to welcome tourists from all over the world.Hilo · 5.1 km from downtown
Richardson Ocean Park

Richardson Ocean Park

3.3
4.7/5
5 reviews
Here, you cansee sea turtles, stroll on the small black sand beach, and it is also a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming.Hilo · 8.1 km from downtown
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

3.2
5.0/5
5 reviews
Panaiva Tropical Rainforest Zoo, located in Hilo, USA, is a zoo located in the rainforest with an area of about twelve acres.Hilo · 8.4 km from downtown
ʻAkaka Falls State Park

ʻAkaka Falls State Park

3.9
4.7/5
19 reviews
Akaka Falls State Park, located in Hawaii, USA, is named after the Akaka Falls in the park. Wild orchids, bamboo forests and ferns grow in the park. Tourists can also admire Kahuna Falls, which is very beautiful with lush flowers and plants around the falls. Not far away is Akaka Falls, which is 442 feet high and hangs on the cliff like a huge water curtain. The crystal water droplets beat the stones in the pool below the waterfall from time to time, which is very rhythmic.Hawaii island · 15.3 km from Hilo
Carlsmith Beach Park

Carlsmith Beach Park

3.2
4.3/5
3 reviews
Carlsmith Beach Park is a great spot for diving. In addition to its expansive beach, it also has picnic areas and showers.Hilo · 6.5 km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Hilo

Featured Day tours in Hilo

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U.S.: Hawaii Island highlights small group 1-day tour | departure from Kailua-Kona | English join-in tour※
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From€226.15
Hawaii: Big Island Hilo Zipline Tour
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4.8/5
· 25 reviews
Duration: 2.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for today
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€207.77€218.71
Hilo: Mauna Kea Summit Tour
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4.9/5
· 13 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€216.22€227.6
Mauna Kea: Stellar Explorer Tour from Hilo or Kona
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5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 6–7 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
From€160.25€168.69
Big Island Hawaii: Craft Chocolate Tasting and Farm Tour
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Duration: 3.5 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
From€93.22€98.13
Hilo: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach
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4.6/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 6 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€143.29€150.84

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What travelers say about Hilo

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东张西望望东西January 27, 2021
5.0
It was the flowering season, and there were many flowers blooming everywhere in the state park. This is a large park with many tropical plants, green trees, birdsong and flowers, giving people a particularly relaxing and comfortable feeling.

Wailuku River State Park

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_TI***x6September 4, 2023
5.0
Stairway path up isn't too difficult path down to the trail is an easy trip very amazing views.

Rainbow Falls

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M30***41February 3, 2021
4.0
It is a lovely place and a tribute to the positive influence of the Greenwell family on the Big Island

Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden

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DEAR张小球January 11, 2020
5.0
Among the several parks we visited in Hawaii, our favorite one is the Hidden Park, except for the Honolulu Park. There is a part of the park that is a Japanese-style garden, which may be related to the fact that there are many Japanese people in Hawaii.

Liliʻuokalani Gardens

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艾米带你游世界April 25, 2025
5.0
We happened to see turtles basking in the sun while looking at the black sand beach.

Hilo Bayfront Beach Park

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_TS***z8April 16, 2022
1.0
Heads up, blue hawaiian does not honor their agreements. I bought trip 6 months in advance. Was charged an additional fee for my weight. I requested they waive the fee, which they agreed to. Day of flight they demand fee anyways. I refuse, and they will not refund me. Poor customer experience, only care about $$.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

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泰宁根吴承恩November 26, 2020
5.0
There are many animals to see, and there are also many unfamiliar plants to appreciate. The zoo is quite large. There are many animals, and the animals are very energetic. The zoo is also very beautiful.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

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花儿笑笑1December 5, 2019
4.0
Akaka Falls Park is a state park on the island of Hawaii. The waterfall plunges 133 meters into a deep pool. The surrounding area is warm and humid, and the air is fresh but also contains some plant fragrance. It is the theme and natural scenery of the entire park. It is worth seeing.

ʻAkaka Falls State Park

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Frequently asked questions

What are the recommended tours and excursions in Hilo?

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include U.S.: Hawaii Island highlights small group 1-day tour | departure from Kailua-Kona | English join-in tour※, Hawaii Big Island: Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour with Hotel Pickup | Join-in Tour, and Sunset sightseeing and volcano stargazing tour on Hawaii island|Chinese~Hilo pickup [Summit in English]. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 25, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Hilo is around EUR 93.22 – EUR 321.37. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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