Hilo
Experience the tropical wonder of Hilo
Hilo lies on the rainy northern east side of the Big Island with rainfall averaging 140 inches per year, giving Hilo its lush tropical vibe of surrounding rainforests, flourishing flora and gushing waterfalls. Hilo is particularly known for Wailuku River State Park featuring a breathtaking 80-foot waterfall named Rainbow Falls.
Historic Hilo Town
Hilo is also home to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which has two active volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa, and is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to the Big Island. The National Park itself spans 335,259 acres and there are 150 miles of hiking trails through volcanic craters and rainforests. Mauna Loa last erupted in 1984 and more recently Kilauea last erupted in 2018, which makes it the most visited attraction in Hawaii and the most studied volcano in the world.
Hilo also has the largest authentic ornamental Japanese garden outside of Japan named, Liliuokalani Gardens, and features fishponds, pagodas and rock gardens. With its laid-back charm, Hilo has plenty to offer visitors from hiking to dazzling waterfalls, gardens, parks, restaurants, shops, art galleries, museums and the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo – the only rainforest zoo in all of the United States.
And if you’re looking to get a taste of Hilo, stop by the Hilo Farmers Market where you can try a wide variety of fresh produce from fruit to vegetables to local honey and coffee, or buy unique crafts from local vendors which make for the perfect souvenirs. A visit to Hilo is something everyone should do for an ultimate bucket list adventure.
Tours From Hilo
Many of our tours go through the historic town of Hilo or begin here, especially if you are visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Check out the tours below that include or start on this side of the island.
Helicopter Tour Over Hilo
Some of the most incredible natural wonders on the Big Island are difficult to see, but flying in a helicopter makes it possible to see these breathtaking wonders. Join us for a tropical sky-high adventure by taking our Helicopter & Volcano Tour. This 45-minute helicopter sky tour is where you will witness cascading waterfalls and jaw-dropping views of Kilauea from an aerial perspective as you discover the best on the Big Island.
Volcano & Circle Island Tours
On these tours you will see the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and experience the real-life magnificence of the Halema’uma’u Crater. You will see the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Falls and stop by the Kilauea Visitors Center where you will learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about volcanoes. You might even stop by the world-famous Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory where you can do a self guided tour of the factory and buy some delicious locally made snacks.
-
Big Island Volcano Adventure
Take an incredible Big Island Adventure from Hilo or Waikiki. See Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls & More.- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Scenic Drive Down Chain of Craters Road
- Black Sand & Rainbow Falls Stops
- Tours Available From Hilo, Maui & Waikiki
-
Evening Volcano Tour From Hilo
Take an afternoon to experience Hawaiiʻs rich volcanic history with a visit to Kilauea and end the day with a wonderful Hawaiian BBQ at a winery.- Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Walk On Lava Flows
- Visit Mauna Ulu
- Afternoon Tour Dinner Included
-
Hawaii Island Hiking Adventure
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a one-of-a-kind gem for volcanic activity. Go hiking in the park, enjoy a bbq dinner and so much more.- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Multiple Hiking Locations
- Historic Stops & Rare Views
- Guided Tour From Hilo or Waikiki
-
Helicopter & Volcano Tour From Oahu
This is an incredible day exploring the land and sky of the Big Island Of Hawaii. This tour starts in Oahu and includes flights.- Inter-Island Flights To Big Island
- 45-Minute Helicopter Tour
- Multiple Stops In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- See Rainbow Falls & Historic Hilo
-
Hilo Lava & Rainforests Helicopter Tour
Take your Hawaiian vacation to the next level on a helicopter flight over an active volcano spewing lava. See lava flows, tropical rainforest waterfalls, and much more.- Fly Over Kilauea Volcano
- See Waterfalls & Rainforest
- 55-60 Minute Flights
- Tour Starts From Hilo
-
Maunakea Stargazing Tour
See the stars as you have never seen them before. Learn about the celestial heavens with an astronomer and professional guide.- Incredible Stargazing Location
- Telescopes For Stars & Safe Sun Gazing
- Includes A Meal & Hot Drinks Too.
- Tours From Kona
-
Volcano & Waterfall Helicopter Tour
A super popular tour when the volcano is erupting. Fly from Hilo and see lots of waterfalls in beautiful rainforest scenes before heading over the active volcano and along the coast to witness the incredible force of nature lava is.
- Lush Rainforest Valleys
- Fly Over The Volcano
- Morning or Afternoon Flights
- 50 Min., Mon to Fri, Hilo
Hiking Tours From Hilo
If you’re up for a hiking adventure, spend the day with us by taking our Hawaii Island Hiking Adventure. This tour is where you will experience a full day of hiking by exploring and sight-seeing the unique structures created by various lava expulsions over time. You will also get to sample homegrown fruits by the Volcano Winery from 8 different wine varieties. It’s the perfect tour for education and exploration.
- Open Daily 5:00am to 9:00pm, HST
Proud Supporter
