Things to do in Hilo

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Hilo which includes a bay or harbor
Akaka Falls featuring a river or creek, a waterfall and rainforest
Rainbow Falls featuring a river or creek and rapids
Hilo which includes signage
Akaka Falls featuring rainforest

Hilo Attractions

Smaller cities have a vibe you won't find in their larger counterparts. Check out all the fun things to do in Hilo before you head away so you can squeeze the most out of your escape. You'll soon learn that bigger doesn't always mean better!

If you're ready to hit the streets of Hilo, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have an experienced guide show you the most popular landmarks. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {101 fun activities in Hilo fun activities in Hilo} are also worth checking out.

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Most popular activities in Hilo

Tours & day trips

See all 83 activities
Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours

Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours

Activity duration is 5 days
7.0 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $35 per traveler*
Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving ToursOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 31 activities
Hawaii Zipline Tours

Hawaii Zipline Tours

Activity duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes
9.2 out of 10 with 11 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $220 per child
Hawaii Zipline ToursOpens in new tab

Water activities

See all 11 activities
Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience of a Lifetime

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience of a Lifetime

Activity duration is 2 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $108 per adult
Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience of a LifetimeOpens in new tab

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 9 activities
Volcanoes National Park Safari

Volcanoes National Park Safari

Activity duration is 55 minutes
7.4 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $379 per adult
Volcanoes National Park SafariOpens in new tab

Classes & workshops

See all 4 activities
Hawaiian Floral Crown Weaving in Hilo

Hawaiian Floral Crown Weaving in Hilo

Activity duration is 2 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $75 per adult
Hawaiian Floral Crown Weaving in HiloOpens in new tab

Recommended things to do in Hilo

Number of things to do
101
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Big Island (South): a Self-Drive Sightseeing and Adventure Audio Tour: $10
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Hilo

Free Things to Do in Hilo

Traveling to Hilo on a budget? The following can be experienced for zip.

Hilo Art Museum - No matter your age, this gallery will pique your imagination and capture your attention.

Wailoa Center - If you're eager to discover more of the cultural and artistic side of the region, be sure to stop by.

Wailoa River State Recreation Area - Let the kids play or let the big kid in you run free — this place simply screams fun.

University of Hawaii at Hilo - Architecture expert or not, there's a good chance you'll be wowed by this landmark's modern design.

Rainbow Falls - Simply being near the water is sure to leave you feeling calm and refreshed.

East Hawaii Cultural Center - If you'd love to see some of the more important or unique places in the community, this is a good place to start.

St. Joseph Catholic Church - Stop for some quiet reflection and discover a few things about this site's spiritual importance.

Honoli'i Beach Park - Go for a leisurely stroll by the water and perhaps even dip your toes in.

Kaumana Caves Park - Kick back and let the natural surrounds calm your soul.

Kalakaua Park - Grab your blanket, pack some nibbles and find a shady area to relish nature.

Things to Do in Hilo with Kids

There's fun for all the family wherever you go in Hilo. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can try together that promise to make your escape unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Hilo? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Hilo

Beautiful beach wit massive turtles!

Carlsmith Beach Park

Explore the great outdoors at Carlsmith Beach Park, a lovely green space in Hilo.

Carlsmith Beach Park
Rainbow Falls which includes a cascade and a garden

Rainbow Falls

Rise early to come to this scenic waterfall for the best chance of seeing the beautiful rainbows that give it its name.

Rainbow Falls
Coconut Island is glowing from the morning sun. There's easily accessible swimming spots, lots of shade from large flowing trees, amazing views of Hilo Bay, Liliuokalani Park and the two hotels overlooking the bay. #hilo #hawaii #coconut #island

Coconut Island Park

Explore the great outdoors at Coconut Island Park and enjoy the volcano viewpoints during your trip to Hilo. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful waterfalls.

Coconut Island Park
Onekahakaha Beach Park showing rocky coastline

Onekahakaha Beach Park

Spend a sunny day exploring the hidden charms of this tranquil cove, where protected tidal pools provide ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions.

Onekahakaha Beach Park
Liliuokalani Park and Gardens featuring a pond

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

This serene Hilo bayfront park offers the serenity of a Japanese garden, a lush canopy of banyan trees and beautiful views from a sacred ancient Hawai’ian island.

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
Keaukaha Beach Park featuring rugged coastline

Keaukaha Beach Park

Snorkel in the clear waters at this beautiful spot, where gaps in the volcanic ocean floor hide a wealth of marine life.

Keaukaha Beach Park
Richardson\'s Ocean Park showing a beach and landscape views

Richardson's Ocean Park

Discover a world of marine science and one of the best swimming spots in the Hilo region at this family-friendly beach park.

Richardson's Ocean Park

Port of Hilo

Explore the waterfront in Hilo with a trip to Port of Hilo. Discover the area's volcano viewpoints and top-notch restaurants.

Port of Hilo

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of Hawaii at Hilo during your stay in Hilo. Wander the area's picturesque gardens or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Hilo

Richardson\'s Ocean Park which includes a park and landscape views

Keaukaha

If you're spending some time in Keaukaha, Port of Hilo and Onekahakaha Beach Park are top sights worth seeing.

Keaukaha
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Hilo

Photo by Vagabond Travel Tales

Keaau

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden which includes a park and a cascade

Papaikou

Akaka Falls which includes forest scenes, a river or creek and a bridge

Hakalau

Kilauea Iki Crater which includes tranquil scenes, mist or fog and landscape views

Volcano

Frequently asked questions

Is Hilo worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Hilo is visit Carlsmith Beach Park. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of the area's festivals and markets.
How do I spend a day in Hilo?
Carlsmith Beach Park and Keaukaha Beach Park are two great places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Hilo while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hilo?
The top tourist attraction in Hilo is Carlsmith Beach Park, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Hilo?
If you only want to enjoy the leading sights, three days will be a good amount of time for a getaway in Hilo. Book for a week or more for the chance to really experience the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and explore off the beaten path.
What are some activities to do in Hilo with kids?
If you're searching for activities and sights for all of your group, check out these great ideas for what to do in Hilo with kids.

What to do in Hilo for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Hilo, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Hawaiʻi Nui Brewing.
Are there free things to do in Hilo?
In Hilo, Carlsmith Beach Park is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the local neighborhoods and parks, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to discover the best free things to do in Hilo.