My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
June 8, 2025
I got off the ship early to enjoy our last day in Hawaii before six days at sea (and three hours forward). Having studied the maps for my presentations, I confidently left the pier and turned right. It was a pretty industrial area. I thought my cousin Easton (age 3) and my friend Raeya (age 2 1/2) would appreciate these cranes.
After getting turned around in Maui, I preemptively checked my map to make sure I was going the right way. I wasn’t! Again?! I turned around and headed in the opposite direction, pleased that I hadn’t walked too far. I saw some residents going in the direction I had first chosen. I looked again at the map and the little arrow seemed to be pointing me toward town but something still felt wrong. Luckily, a local jogger passed by and asked if I needed help. I asked him which way led into town and he pointed me in the direction I had originally been going. My map (that conveniently turned when I turned) was upside down! I took the action of geniuses and restarted my phone. I called Rose (Raeya’s mum) and told her about my adventure as I walked into town with my bearings and map in alignment.
Still chatting with Rose, I stopped for some Hawaiian coffee and ran into another one of my little lizard friends!
We were still on the Big Island (same island as Kona) so the lizard hadn’t traveled too far.
As I continued catching up with Rose, I came upon a beautiful park.
Hilo was gorgeous!
This park was amazing!
It had tree-stuff hanging from the branches.
I was having a great time soaking in the scenery ,with Rose in my ear. When I finally reached the town Rose asked how long the walk had taken – we’d been on the phone for an hour and a half!
I wanted to sit down and drink something cold. Rose suggested a wine bar or a beer garden but it was much later where she was in England. I couldn’t find anything like that open at 10:30 in the morning – but I did find a mango icy drink!
After a short rest, I was back on my mission. I stopped to peruse some very cute shops and found a farmers market.
There were beautiful flowers everywhere –
Turtles!
I found my way around another park and then back at the one I’d walked through this morning. This time I wanted to find Coconut Island – it looked exotic in the pictures online.
I found it:
On the island:
There was a Japanese garden
I’d had such a great day walking and walking, talking to Rose, and then listening to podcasts. My legs were starting to feel it…
I stopped at a restaurant for one last Hawaiian meal, and was seated at this perfect corner table:
The breeze came through the windows. I could see birds floating on the water, and the chatter of the kayakers.
And more beautiful flowers.
I returned to the ship with minutes to spare, as rejuvenated as I could be for the journey ahead.
Hilo, Hawai‘i (Big Island)
Welcome to Hilo, the lush, rain-soaked gem of the Big Island’s eastern coast. While Kailua-Kona basks in sun and lava rock, Hilo is all about waterfalls, rainforests, and botanical beauty—a dramatic contrast shaped by nature’s hand.
Nestled between Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean, Hilo is one of the wettest cities in the U.S., giving rise to lush gardens, vibrant flora, and an authentic, laid-back atmosphere. This side of the island is less touristy and more local, offering rich cultural experiences, farmers markets, and a deep connection to Hawai‘i’s natural forces—including an active volcano nearby.
Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, visiting ancient lava flows, or learning about Hawaiian astronomy and mythology, Hilo offers a softer, more soulful side of Hawai‘i.
Why Are We Here?
Hilo offers something you won’t find anywhere else—a blend of tropical beauty, living geology, and deep cultural roots. It’s the best jumping-off point for Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most famous volcanoes.
You can stroll through botanical gardens, swim beneath waterfalls, or explore old lava tubes. You’ll also experience authentic Hawaiian town life, where locals shop at open-air markets and talk story under banyan trees.
This side of the island is all about natural wonder and island heritage—untouched and unforgettable.
History:
Hilo has long been a cultural center of the Big Island. Originally settled by Polynesians over a thousand years ago, the area was fertile and ideal for taro farming and fishing.
During the 19th century, Hilo became a hub for sugar plantations, bringing laborers from Japan, China, the Philippines, and Portugal. Their influence remains visible in the town’s architecture, food, and festivals.
The town has endured multiple tsunamis, including a devastating one in 1946. Memorials and museums around town reflect the resilience of the Hilo community.
Today, Hilo is the seat of county government, a center for education, science, and culture, and a gateway to the island’s most powerful natural wonders.
Itinerary:
Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Arrival: Saturday, June 7 8:00am(Please allow time for port clearance)
Departure: Sunday June 8 All aboard: 4pm Sail away: 5pm
Terminal Address:
Pier 1, 100 Kuhio St, Hilo, HI 96720
This is a docked port, so you’ll walk right off the ship into the port area.
Near the Pier:
Nearest Pharmacy: Longs Drugs (2.2 miles)
Nearest ATM: Grand Naniloa Hotel by Hilton (1.3 miles)
Nearest Shop: Keaukaha General Store (4 minute walk from Cruise Terminal)
Getting Around:
In Hilo, the ship will dock at the Port of Hilo, about a 5-minute drive from downtown. Here again, taxis and shuttles are usually available just outside the terminal, but booking a shore excursion or car rental in advance is highly recommended—especially if you want to explore farther afield. Popular destinations like Rainbow Falls, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and the Lili‘uokalani Gardens are all within an hour’s drive, but not served by public buses on a convenient schedule for cruise passengers.
Getting from the Hilo Cruise Terminal to Downtown Hilo is straightforward, with several transportation options available to suit different preferences and schedules.
🚶♂️ Walking
For those who enjoy a leisurely stroll, Downtown Hilo is approximately 1 to 2 miles from the cruise terminal. The walk can take about 30 to 50 minutes, depending on your pace. However, be aware that parts of the route may pass through industrial areas, which might not offer the most scenic views.
🚌 Public Bus – Hele-On Bus
The Hele-On Bus is Hilo’s public transportation system. While it doesn’t stop directly at the cruise terminal, the nearest bus stop is about a 9-minute walk away at Kalanianaole Ave @ Silva St/Keaukaha Market. From there, you can catch the Route 101 bus, which heads towards downtown Hilo.
- Fare: As of February 28, 2022, the Hele-On Bus is fare-free, making it an economical choice for travelers.
- Schedule: Buses typically run hourly, but it’s advisable to check the latest schedules on the Hele-On Bus website to plan your trip accordingly.
🚖 Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal. A ride to downtown Hilo typically costs between $12 and $16, depending on traffic and exact drop-off location.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also operate in Hilo, offering another convenient option for travelers.
🚗 Rental Cars
If you’re planning to explore beyond downtown Hilo, renting a car might be a good option. Several rental agencies, including Enterprise and Hertz, offer shuttle services from the cruise terminal to their nearby offices. It’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
Hilo:
- Bikeshare: HIBIKE also operates bikeshare stations in Hilo, providing a convenient option for short trips.
- Bike Shops: Hilo Bike Hub offers a variety of bikes for sale, service, and rental.
- Other Options: Big Island Bike Tours and other local businesses in Hilo also offer bike rentals for exploring the area
Witnessing:
From waterfalls to volcanoes, Hilo offers jaw-dropping sights you won’t see elsewhere in Hawaii:
- Rainbow Falls – Just minutes from downtown, this picturesque waterfall often features a rainbow in the morning mist.
- ʻAkaka Falls State Park – A 442-foot waterfall tucked inside a lush rainforest—easy walking trail and great for photos.
- Waterfall swims – Some falls, like Peepee Falls, have pools nearby where swimming is permitted (check signage).
- Liliʻuokalani Gardens – A peaceful Japanese-style garden by the bay, honoring the last Hawaiian queen.
And of course:
- Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park – Just 45 minutes away, it’s home to Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Explore steam vents, lava tubes, and craters—and if conditions are right, see lava glowing in the crater at night.
🌋 How to Visit Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
If you’re docking in Hilo, you’re in the perfect spot to explore Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, one of the island’s most iconic and awe-inspiring destinations. The park is about 45 minutes southwest of Hilo by car and offers an unforgettable look at the dynamic forces that shaped—and continue to shape—the Hawaiian Islands.
🚘 Getting There
- Rental Car: For independent travelers, renting a car gives you full flexibility. Reserve ahead, and pick up your vehicle at the port or nearby. Be sure to allow time for pick-up, drop-off, and driving (it’s about a 90-minute round trip).
- Taxi or Private Driver: Booking a local guide or taxi for a few hours is another convenient option—especially if you’re traveling with others and want a more customized experience.
🚫 Note: Uber and Lyft are limited and not reliable for the return trip from the park.
🌋 What to See in the Park
- Kīlauea Visitor Center: Start here to get maps, ranger tips, and check on current volcanic activity and trail conditions.
- Steam Vents & Sulfur Banks: Easy walks to see hot volcanic gases escaping from the earth.
- Kīlauea Iki Crater & Thurston Lava Tube: Explore a trail into a crater or walk through a 500-year-old lava tube.
- Crater Rim Drive: A scenic route with overlooks of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which sometimes glows at night if there’s lava activity.
- Chain of Craters Road: A stunning drive with lava flows, sea cliffs, and sweeping views—best with extra time.
🕓 Timing Tips
- Give yourself at least 3–4 hours to explore the park meaningfully.
- Always check current conditions before heading out: some areas may be closed due to volcanic activity or weather.
- If lava is flowing or the crater is active, consider staying until dusk for a possible glow view—truly unforgettable.
🧳 What to Bring
- Water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers (elevation makes it cooler).
- Sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
- A fully charged phone or camera—this is one of the most photogenic places on Earth!
Learning:
Hilo is a place where science and culture meet:
- Lyman Museum and Mission House – Learn about native Hawaiian life and the arrival of missionaries.
- ʻImiloa Astronomy Center – Blends traditional Hawaiian navigation with modern astronomy.
- Pacific Tsunami Museum – Tells the story of the devastating waves that reshaped Hilo and its people.
- Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is a non-profit botanical garden and nature bioreserve. It is home to over 2000 plant species and represents more than 125 families and 750 genera of tropical exotics. Entry is $25 per adult, but as it is a non-profit organization, all money goes back into the upkeep of the bioreserve. The Garden is very popular with photographers, gardeners, scientists, and nature lovers and is home to a variety of animals and birds.
- Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center – Offers ranger talks, geology exhibits, and cultural displays.
You’ll also find hula schools, lei-making classes, and artisan markets that reflect Hilo’s vibrant heritage.
Discovery:
Adventure is never far in Hilo. Consider:
- Ziplining – Above waterfalls and forest canopies near Hakalau or Honomu.
- Volcano Winery – Tucked between the two volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea, Hawaii’s Volcano Winery is located one mile from the Volcanoes National Park and is America’s southernmost winery. Their award-winning wines are unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic soil and are only produced on the Big Island. They produce a range of delicious estate teas too. You can pop in for a browse or join in on a super affordable tasting of their wines or teas.
- Waipi‘o Valley Lookout – About 90 minutes north of Hilo by car, the Waipi‘o Valley Lookout offers one of the island’s most jaw-dropping views. This lush, dramatic valley—often called the “Valley of the Kings”—was once home to Hawaiian royalty and remains sacred ground today.
- The lookout point is accessible by car and offers incredible panoramic views without hiking.
- Access to the valley floor is restricted due to road conditions and safety concerns, but the lookout alone is well worth the visit.
- The surrounding area, including Honoka‘a town, offers a charming local experience if you’re making a day trip.
Shore excursions can help you get the most from your day. Check return times if you’re exploring independently.
Shopping:
Downtown Hilo is full of unique, local finds. Don’t miss:
- Hilo Farmers Market – Open daily, but busiest on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Fresh produce, handmade crafts, tropical flowers, jams, soaps, and souvenirs.
- Big Island Candies – Famous for macadamia shortbread cookies and chocolate-dipped treats—watch them being made on site.
- Sig Zane Designs – A local designer known for elegant Hawaiian clothing with traditional patterns.
- Locally made crafts – Jewelry, ceramics, koa wood items, and woven goods from artisans all over the island.
Night Life:
Their website goes in circles, but this is the only place I could find that might have live music on Saturday night.
Hilo Town Tavern
168 Keawe Street, Hilo, HI 96720
They have a killer wings menu with sweet, spicy and savory options literally labeled from A-Z with flavors like raspberry chipotle, Hawaiian chili pepper garlic, and honey lime Sriracha! You can order them as wings or tenders in grilled or breaded styles, all served up hot and delicious. They have a good selection of bar eats, appetizers and nachos. Their dinners and lunches are local favorites such as loco moco, gravy and cheese fries, hamburgers, salads, sweet potato fries, sliders, pulled pork sandwiches and buffalo wings, their menu has plenty of variety.
Hilo Town Tavern is also an incredible spot to belly-up to the bar for a game, play some pool or listen to live music. Their music venue has something for everyone, they host local bands, popular DJs, traditional Hawaiian music, karaoke and open mic. Head down to Hilo Town Tavern for some good food, local music and fun times.
Travel Tips:
- Weather – Hilo is humid and gets frequent rain. Bring a light rain jacket or poncho and waterproof shoes.
- Footwear – Some trails are slippery—closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended.
- Bug Spray – Mosquitoes are common in jungle areas.
- Sunscreen – Even on cloudy days, UV rays are strong. Use reef-safe sunscreen if swimming.
- Respect the Land – Avoid picking flowers or walking off designated paths, especially at sacred sites.
Whether you’re hiking a volcano, discovering native plants, or standing beneath a waterfall, I hope Hilo leaves you refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected to the heart of Hawai‘i Island.
Enjoy your day in Hilo—aloha and safe exploring!