City
Hilo
Big Island's lush gateway to volcanic wonders
Hilo feels like Hawaii before the resorts took over. This is the Big Island's wet side, where waterfalls tumble through downtown and farmers markets sell rambutan you've never heard of. The rain here isn't a bug — it's a feature that keeps everything impossibly green and the crowds manageable. You'll find local families at Liliuokalani Gardens feeding koi fish, not tour groups snapping selfies. And when the clouds part, you get views of Mauna Kea that'll make you forget all about Waikiki.
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Downtown Hilo puts you walking distance from Bayfront and the Saturday farmers market. The historic buildings here have character, but expect older hotels with quirks. Lyman Museum area offers quieter B&Bs if you want to escape the occasional late-night revelry from Cronies Bar. Reed's Bay has vacation rentals right on the water — you'll hear waves instead of traffic. But here's the thing: most visitors use Hilo as a base for volcano adventures, so location matters less than you think. Book anything clean within 10 minutes of downtown and you're golden.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.Hilo Farmers Market prices drop significantly in the last hour before closing
- 2.Many waterfalls and hiking trails around Hilo are completely free with just parking fees
- 3.Local plate lunch spots like Cafe 100 serve huge portions for under $12
- 4.Gas is cheaper in Hilo than resort areas like Kona - fill up here before volcano trips
- 5.Wednesday farmers market has the same vendors as Saturday but smaller crowds and better deals
Travel Tips
- •Pack rain gear year-round - Hilo gets 130+ inches annually and showers come without warning
- •Download offline maps before driving to remote waterfalls where cell service disappears
- •Bring reef-safe sunscreen - many Hilo beaches and tide pools require it by law
- •Start waterfall hikes early morning when lighting is best and crowds are thinnest
- •Book volcano tours in advance during peak season - they fill up quickly from cruise ship passengers
Frequently Asked Questions
Hilo offers more authentic local culture and easier access to waterfalls and volcanoes, while Kona has better beaches and resort amenities. Choose Hilo if you prefer nature and local experiences over beach lounging.
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