Curving gracefully around the rim of Hilo Bay, the TOWN OF HILO is nestled on the slopes of three volcanoes, and is home to nearly 41,000 residents.
One of the WETTEST TOWNS in the United States, Hilo boasts a rainfall average of about 128 inches a year. All that rain creates GUSHING WATERFALLS and nourishment for a myriad of EXOTIC FLOWERS. Find some of those beautiful blooms at HAWAI‘I TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN (htbg.com).
Tourism may not be as notice-able here, but there’s plenty to do. HAWAI‘I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK is a short drive away.
Hilo has a vibrant downtown, where you’ll find everything from art galleries, museums, restaurants and shops galore. Venture a bit farther and you’ll find favorite shops such as BASICALLY BOOKS at its new location for an exciting array of Hawai‘i books.
Learn about the connections between the skies above, Hawaiian culture and science at ‘IMILOA ASTRONOMY CENTER OF HAWAI‘I.
Need some direction? Look for the Aloha Information Station next to the bus terminal across from Hilo Farmers Market. Ask about the Big Island Museum Discount Pass that offers discounted admission to museums in Hilo and around the island. Hilo destinations include ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, LYMAN MUSEUM and PACIFIC TSUNAMI PHO TO: JEFF S ANNER | L OCA TION: GREEN S AND BEA CH PICK A BEACH ES S EN T IA L
. For more information, go to destinationhilo.com.
As you continue along the highway, keep your eyes peeled for ‘AKAKA FALLS , the renowned waterfalls. To get to ‘Akaka Falls from Honomū, follow Highway 220 for 3.5 miles. The falls are 442-feet high, and provide one of the best PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES on the island. BASICALLY BOOKS 808-961-0144 BIG ISLAND CANDIES 808-935-8890 OR 800-935-5510 DESTINATION HILO 808-963-5091 HILO SHOPPING CENTER 808-935-6499 ONE GALLERY 808-961-2787 S. TOKUNAGA STORE 808-935-6965