Hilo, HI

Answer 1

Hilo is on the north shore of the Big Island of Hawaii, and has a rather rugged, old west charm to it that you won’t find in the more polished resorts. The local branch of the University of Hawaii located in Hilo sets the mood of the town’s activities, and you will find more quaint cafes and charming coffeeshops that 5 star restaurants here, although fine dining venues are available. But the true charm of Hilo lies in the sleepy, unpretentious atmosphere that invites you to relax and enjoy the beauty bounty of Hawaii.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Parks have family friendly hikes to peek into the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea, and to watch the lava meet the sea on the far western shores of Big Island. Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, the two dormant volcanoes on the other end of the island, are the home of numerous astronomical observatories that are situated at over 10,000 feet above sea level.

Learn to surf or sail off the rocky beaches around Hilo, or hop a boat to go deep sea fishing or take a whale watching dinner cruise. Hikes into the nearby jungles are often rewarded with beautiful grottos with waterfall fed pools where you can swim.

Food and Drink

With over 83 restaurants and bars, for a small town Hilo offers visitors many choices for dining our, from fresh seafood caught in the bay and prepared ’island style,’ to ethnic that represent the multi-cultural heritage of Hawaii, including Mexican food, Japanese sushi and Indian cooking. Hilo is the only town on the north shore where you fill find chain restaurants and corporate fast food joints, but you will no doubt notice their prices are noticeably higher that their mainland counterparts.

For fresh food, the daily farmer’s market offers a bounty of fruits and vegetables grown at the nearby farms and orchards. You can also find booths that feature ready made food, like tamale stands and smoothie bars. The adjoining flea market is a great place to pick up souvenirs made by local craftsman.

Arts and Entertainment

Hilo is home to many art galleries, and art openings are a common way to spend a lovely, low cost evening nibbling on pupus and sipping drinks. The local branch of the University of Hawaii at Hilo hosts many theatrical performances, concerts and lectures. Regional fairs and environmentally oriented seminars also take place on the campus and are usually free, or very cheap, and open the public.

Join the fun at a Karaoke bar, or check out one of the local discos or bars with live bands for a big night on the town. Some romantic cocktail lounges feature dance floors where weekly lessons are offered in various dance styles, including an introduction to the hula. While you are in Hilo, check the local paper, bulletin boards and telephone poles flyers for regional events that are usually very cheap and feature island artists and musicians who might surprise you with their incredible talent.

Answer 2

Hilo is located on the â%E2%82%AC%C5%93Big Islandâ%E2%82%AC%C2%9D of Hawaii and is the main city on the island; it has dramatic waterfalls, and blessed with lush rainforests. In early times Hilo was a busy fishing and farming village, it evolved in the 1800â%E2%82%AC%E2%84%A2s as a commercial center for the sugar industry.

There are many natural wonders in and around Hilo including Rainbow Falls, and many beautiful parks notably Wailuku River State Park, Liliuokalani Gardens and Wailooa River State Park. There are also countless orchid farms and botanical gardens, to see and the only rainforest zoo located in America, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, has exotic plants and animals, which also includes a Bengal white tiger.

The Imiloa Astronomy Center is Hiloâ%E2%82%AC%E2%84%A2s latest first class attraction, and if youâ%E2%82%AC%E2%84%A2re planning a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it is only a 45 minutes south of Hilo. A trip to Hilo will surely inspire you; it is truly an authentic experience of Hawaiiâ%E2%82%AC%E2%84%A2s Big Island.

Answer 3

Hilo is a town on the Big Island of Hawaii known for its rainforests, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. It is home to the historic Hilo Farmers Market and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which showcases the active Kilauea volcano. Hilo is also a gateway to exploring the island's diverse landscapes and outdoor activities.