Overview Located on the eastern coast of the "Big Island" of Hawaii, Hilo is home to some of the most popular attractions in Hawaii. Among them are Volcano National Park, Akaka Falls and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. Hilo is also the commercial center of the Big Island, so there's a lot to do in this city.
Destinations Hilo is typically included on Hawaii cruise itineraries.
Cruise Lines Departing Here
Hilo is not a cruise departure port.
Currency The official currency of the United States is the dollar.
Language The official language is English.
Tourist Attractions It's very easy to walk around the downtown area, and there's a bunch of great places to check out there. Among them is a great place for those that would like to learn about the history of Hilo, the Lyman Museum and Mission House. This natural history museum, founded in 1931 inside of a building (the Mission House) built in 1839, features many displays focusing on Hawaiian culture. Also in this area is Banyan Drive, known as the "Hilo Walk of Fame." This area is the home to a slew of trees that have been planted by various celebrities over the years. The trees display the names of the celebrities that planted them.
Volcano National Park is home to three volcanoes, Mount Kilauea (an active volcano), Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa (the largest mountain in the world). An interesting and exciting excursion often offered in Hilo is a helicopter ride over Kilauea. Such an excursion can be pricey (easily over $200 per person) and can sell out rather quickly, so be sure to book it as early as possible if you're interested. Many other excursions are available to Volcano National Park, as it is without a doubt one of the top tourist attractions in Hilo.
Akaka Falls is a breathtaking 422 foot cascading waterfall that is located about 11 miles north of Hilo. It's actually located in Akaka Falls State Park. Hiking to this area is quite popular.
Nani Mau Gardens, located on Makalika Street, are 20 acres of botanical gardens that are open daily (typically from 8 am to 5 pm). They feature over 2,000 varieties of plants and do charge an admission.
Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo is the only United States zoo located within a rain forest. It's about 12 acres in size and features over 60 species of animals on display, as well as a variety of tropical plants, flowers and trees.
Other places that are great options to visit while in Hilo are the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory (a subsidiary of The Hershey Company since 2004, featuring a self-guided tour of the processing plant and a gift shop), the Hilo Art Museum, Lava Tree State Monument and the 'Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii (open to the public since 2006, featuring a full-dome 120-seat planetarium show, various exhibits and a gift shop). Active travelers may enjoy participating in a bicycle or hiking trip.
Port Location
The port is located within walking distance of downtown Hilo, making it quite convenient for cruise passengers since there's a lot to do and see there.
