Question 1

What is there to do in Hilo?

Accepted Answer

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (about 45 minutes away — Kilauea, craters and, when active, lava glow), chase waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, wander the historic downtown and its excellent farmers' market, visit botanical gardens and the Imiloa Astronomy Center, and relax at Richardson's black-sand beach. It's lush, local and less resort-y than Kona.

Question 2

What is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

Accepted Answer

A national park on the Big Island protecting two of the world's most active volcanoes — Kilauea and Mauna Loa. You can drive Crater Rim Drive, walk near a caldera and through a lava tube, and — when Kilauea is erupting — see glowing lava (always check current conditions with the park). It's one of Hawaii's most awesome experiences, about 45 minutes from Hilo.

Question 3

Is Hilo or Kona a better base on the Big Island?

Accepted Answer

Hilo (east) is lush, rainy, local and close to the volcano, waterfalls and gardens; Kona (west) is sunny, dry, resort-lined and better for beaches and snorkeling. The Big Island is huge, so many visitors split their stay or do a loop. For the volcano and greenery, base in Hilo; for beach-resort time, Kona.

Question 4

Does it really rain that much in Hilo?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Hilo is one of the rainiest cities in the US (120+ inches a year), which is exactly why it's so green and full of waterfalls and gardens. Rain often comes in short bursts, and mornings can be clearer, so plan outdoor activities early and stay flexible. Pack a light rain jacket and embrace the lushness.

Question 5

Is Hilo safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes — it's a small, friendly, laid-back town that's comfortable for visitors. Keep valuables out of parked cars (especially at trailheads and waterfalls). The main cautions are natural: ocean currents, slippery wet trails, flash floods in heavy rain, and following all lava-viewing safety rules. Emergency number: 911.

Question 6

Do I need a car on the Big Island and in Hilo?

Accepted Answer

Yes, definitely — the Big Island is by far the largest Hawaiian island, and the volcano, waterfalls, beaches and the Kona side are all a drive apart with minimal transit. A rental car is essential. Distances are long (Hilo to Kona is about 1.5 hours), so plan your days around driving.

Question 7

When is the best time to visit Hilo?

Accepted Answer

Year-round warm; it's rainy any month, but spring and summer tend to be a bit drier, and mornings are often clearer. Whale season (winter) and the Merrie Monarch hula festival (after Easter — a huge cultural event that books out the town) are highlights. Come for greenery and the volcano rather than beach weather.

Question 8

What languages do people speak here?

Accepted Answer

English; Spanish is spoken by 40+ million people — dominant in parts of Miami, LA, Texas and the Southwest.

Question 9

What is Hilo known for?

Accepted Answer

Hilo is known as: The lush, rainy hub of the Big Island's east side — waterfalls, gardens, a great farmers' market, and gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Question 10

What is the nearest major airport?

Accepted Answer

Hilo International Airport (ITO) — about 5 km away.

Question 11

What timezone is it in?

Accepted Answer

Hilo is in the UTC-5 to UTC-10 timezone.

Hilo

Airports near Hilo

Hilo International Airport

Waimea Kohala Airport

Hilo at a Glance

Nearby places to explore

Famous Places Near Hilo

Info about Hilo