Quick Summary: Hawaii conjures up images of gently swaying palms, shimmering turquoise waters and sands beaches, and it doesn’t disappoint. Hilo offers a plethora of things to see and do, from hiking up craggy volcanic peaks and across the rocky moonscapes of ancient lava flows to learning the ancient sport of “wave sliding” (surfing) and snorkeling or diving with the myriad of marine life on the multi-coloured reefs. There are plenty of sacred Hawaiian sites and ancient missionary churches to explore, lush, fauna and flora-filled national parks to discover, and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Hawaii Island beaches are, without a doubt, the sparkling jewels in the Pacific crown.


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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

Akaka Falls

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Hawaii Route 200

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Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

© Courtesy of MNStudio - Fotolia.com

Hilo Farmers Market

© Courtesy of Zechal - Fotolia.com

Honoli'i Beach Park

© Courtesy of kelifamily - Fotolia.com

Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii

© Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii

Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

© Courtesy of pikappa51 - Fotolia.com

Lyman House Memorial Museum

© Lyman House Memorial Museum

Nani Mau Gardens

© Courtesy of beerphotographer - Fotolia.com

Pacific Tsunami Museum

© Pacific Tsunami Museum

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo

© Courtesy of SUKTSHAT - Fotolia.com

Paradise Helicopters

© Courtesy of Vlad Turchenko - Fotolia.com

Pe'epe'e Falls

© Courtesy of Charlotte - Fotolia.com

Rainbow Falls

© Courtesy of cherylvb - Fotolia.com

Richardson Ocean Park

© Courtesy of liquid studios - Fotolia.com

Wailoa River State Recreation Area

© Courtesy of John Penisten - Fotolia.com

Wailuku River State Park

© Courtesy of Melastmohican - Fotolia.com

Arnott's Lodge and Hiking Adventures

© Courtesy of Vacclav - Fotolia.com

Hilo Bay Cafe

© amenic181/stock.adobe.com

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