Hilo Hawaii is a popular holiday spot where you will experience the sights and grandeur of the peaceful Pacific from the lush forests to the beauty of the waterfalls Hilo is reminiscent of an oasis between the volcanoes and the sea.  Known as the second biggest city in Hawaii, Hilo offers adventure and activities for young and old alike.  Travel to Hilo for a holiday and you will delight in how Hilo infuses the Polynesian flavor with modern American splendor.  If you are looking for a Hilo destination guide that will provide you with information on the many Hilo activities and places to visit then you are in the right place.

Hilo Attractions

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo is known as the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the United States.  The zoo is complete with activities your children will love like feeding the tigers or petting the animals in the petting zoo.  Located in a forest, one of its most popular attractions is the rare white male Bengal Tiger.  With more than 60 different animals to look at and 40 different species of plants, flowers, and trees you will delight in the beauty of the tropical rainforest.

Rainbow Falls is a waterfall in Hilo, where on a misty morning you can see a beautiful rainbow stretching across the waterfall.  It is said to arrive in the early morning to get the best view of the rainbow.  Rainbow Falls is fed by the Wailuku River, and rushes into a large turquoise colored pool bordered by wild ginger, lush dense tropical foliage, and flows over a natural lava cave.  According to mythology the cave was the home to Hina an ancient Hawaiian goddess.  Exploring Rainbow Falls should be a must visit and part of every destination guide for Hilo Hawaii.

Nani Mau Gardens a name that means "forever beautiful" is a botanical garden treasure of the islands that contains more that 2,000 varieties of plants, some 225 different flowering plants, trees, pools and waterfalls.  A visitor to the Nani Mau Gardens will also find every flowering plant in Hawaii and the garden boasts the world's largest collection of orchids.  Visiting the Nani Mau Gardens is one of many Hilo activities to experience that you will never forget.

Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii If astronomy is your interest then this 120-seat planetarium will be on the top of your list.  The Imiloa Astronomy Center reflects both the Hawaiian voyages of discovery and explorations of astronomy while inspiring, educating, and interpreting the deepest mysteries of the universe.  These deep mysteries are unraveled by the world's largest and most important collection of telescopes.  Imiloa features interactive exhibits and planetarium shows that will engage young and old alike.

Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park easily accessible by car the park highlight's two of the world's most active volcanoes while providing insight into the birth of the Hawaiian Islands. 

Hilo Farmers Market is a must see.  With over 200 farmers and crafters this festive outdoor atmosphere takes you back to the old "plantation" days of Hilo where you can enjoy shopping for fruits, flowering plants, crafts and gift items for everyone on your list.

Richardson's Beach a great place for kids and adults alike.  Richardson's Beach is known for its superb snorkeling due largely in part to the vast diversity of marine wildlife, including the honu (green sea turtles) and the multi-colored coral.  With its dramatic black sand beach and blue-green water Richardson's a great place for the novice surfer because the waves are not to big and a perfect compliment to any Hilo travel guide.