The Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawaii, is considered the most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands and is home to the world’s largest volcano Mauna Loa, the most active volcano Kilauea, and the world’s tallest mountain Mauna Kea (measured from the ocean floor to the highest peak).
Nestled at the foot of Mauna Loa is the friendly coastal city of Hilo. The lush landscape and rich volcanic soil make Hilo an agricultural paradise where tropical fruit and flowers flourish. To fully experience Hilo and the Big Island, check out these local attractions and let the adventures begin.
One of the most treasured parks in America and just a 45 minute drive from the Hilo Seaside Hotel. Hike and explore active volcanoes, including the world’s largest Mauna Loa, enjoy the Thurston Lava Tube or drive the Crater Rim.
Make a day trip to the volcano.
The clearest place on the planet to stargaze is atop Mauna Kea. Three telescopes offer the best amateur observation site in the world, where one can see clusters of stars, planets and galaxies.
Stargazing at the summit.
A breathtaking 442-foot waterfall that spills into a deep pool leading to the ocean. Scenic and spectacular, the Akaka Falls is visible from the easy-to-walk loop trail.
Fall in love at Akaka.
You are sure to find a “rainbow” in the mist of this waterfall, located just outside of Hilo town. Easy to see, Rainbow Falls is not as powerful as Akaka Falls, but equally dramatic and worth the visit.
see the end of a rainbow.
Ideal for snorkeling and discovery, this unique collection of tide pools is filled with a variety of tropical fish in clear, tranquil water.
Snorkel at the tide pools.
Mere steps from the Hilo Seaside Hotel, this beautiful and famous tree-lined street was planted in the early 1900s by celebrities including Babe Ruth, King George V, and Presidents Nixon and Roosevelt.
Visit the tropical walk of fame.
Lush and tropical Japanese style gardens within walking distance of the Hilo Seaside Hotel.
Liliuoklani Japanese Garden.
The rich volcanic soil provides Hilo with exceptionally beautiful gardens. The Nani Mau Garden is especially beautiful and features native and exotic flowers and orchids.
53 acres of gorgeous tropical flowers and plants.
The only natural, tropical rainforest zoo in the United States is located in Pana’ewa, just north of Hilo. Admission is free.
The Hilo Zoo.
This center provides a unique experience for visitors and students to explore the connections between Hawaiian cultural traditions and astronomy. Fun for the whole family!
View the stars at Imiloa.
Learn through rich interpretive displays about the destruction of the tsunamis that hit the town of Hilo in the 1900s.
Hilo's Tsunami Museum.
One of the State’s best fresh food markets offering a delicious sampling of Hilo’s farm-to-table lifestyle.
Big Island Fesh, Hilo Farmers Market.
4000 students believe the Big Island is the best place in the world to study environmental and marine science, astronomy, and Hawaiian Studies.
Learn about the Univeristy of Hawaii.
The Eastside airport is just a few minutes by car to the Hilo Seaside Hotel.
Fly into the Hilo International Airport.
