Hilo is the county seat of Hawaii Island — the Big Island — and one of the most authentic port towns in the Hawaiian archipelago. Situated on the northeastern shore overlooking Hilo Bay, the city is surrounded by rainforests, waterfalls, and botanical gardens, with dramatic views of two shield volcanoes: dormant Mauna Kea and active Mauna Loa.
Hilo is a real Hawaiian city — not a resort town — with genuine local character, an extraordinary farmers market, excellent restaurants, and some of the most accessible natural wonders in the Pacific. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (home to Kilauea, the most active volcano on earth) is just 45 minutes away. Not far from the city is the world's leading macadamia nut factory — one of the island's most popular visitor attractions.
One practical note: Hilo is the rainiest city in the United States, averaging rain on 236 days a year. Bring an umbrella — it's usually brief and the landscape owes its extraordinary beauty entirely to it.
Check out excursions in Hilo, Hawaii.
Know Before You Go
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Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island) – Quick Facts
Where You Dock in Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island)
Pier locations and what's available at each terminal.
Ships dock at piers in Kuhio Bay, approximately 2 miles east of downtown Hilo. The port is primarily a large cargo and container facility serving the entire Big Island — cruise amenities are limited. Passengers are typically greeted by local performers with traditional Hawaiian music and hula, who also provide maps and area guidance.
Getting Around Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island)
Transportation options once you're ashore.
🚌 Free Shuttles
On cruise ship days, a free shuttle runs to the Hilo Farmers Market for the first part of the morning (usually until ~11am). A separate complimentary shuttle goes to Hilo Hatties (Hawaii's largest retailer of Hawaiian fashions) and the adjacent Walmart — sponsored by Walmart as part of the cruise day service.
🚌 Public Bus (Hele On Bus)
Near the port's main entrance is a stop for the Hele On Bus — look for the Keaukaha route. Runs hourly from approximately 7am with the last return to the ship area at 4pm. Departs from the Keaukaha Market just outside the port exit to the Hilo Information Center downtown. Runs on "island time" — don't cut return timing too close.
🚕 Taxis, Uber & Lyft
Taxis are available at the cruise terminal for downtown Hilo. Uber and Lyft both operate in Hilo — a convenient and flexible option. See local taxi services on Yelp.
🚗 Car Rental
The best way to explore beyond downtown — essential for reaching Volcanoes National Park, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, and the island's more remote attractions. Must be reserved in advance and picked up at Hilo International Airport (~10 minutes from the port). Enterprise, Budget, and Expedia all have options.
🚶 Walking
Downtown Hilo is about 2 miles from the pier — walkable in about an hour but the route passes through an industrial area with no sidewalks and limited scenery. One of the shuttle options is strongly preferred.
Things To Do in Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island)
Make the most of your time ashore.
🎯 Hilo offers extraordinary natural wonders, cultural sites, and authentic Hawaiian experiences:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — About 45 minutes from the cruise port. Home to Kilauea — the most active volcano on earth — and Mauna Loa. The 520-acre park has 150 miles of trails, ranger-led daily walks, and landscapes ranging from lush rainforest to barren lava fields. One of the most extraordinary national parks in the United States. Check current activity at nps.gov/havo before your port day.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden — Less than 7 miles from Hilo. A tropical rainforest setting with over 2,500 species of tropical plants, waterfalls, streams, and ocean coastline views. Self-guided tours take about 90 minutes. One of the finest botanical gardens in the Pacific.
Hilo Farmers Market — One of the best markets in Hawaii. Over 200 local farmers and crafters on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7:30am. Fresh tropical fruit, macadamia products, local honey, flowers, and handmade gifts. Free shuttle from the pier on cruise days. An essential Hilo experience.
Pacific Tsunami Museum — Housed in an old bank building that survived the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis that destroyed much of the town. A wave machine lets you experience moving water energy; video in the bank vaults tells survivor stories. A moving and sobering piece of Hilo's history.
Lyman Museum and Mission House — A Smithsonian Institution affiliate covering Hawaii's social and natural history. The adjacent Mission House (1830s) is the oldest standing wooden frame house on the Big Island — built by New England missionaries. Genuinely excellent exhibits on Hawaii's geological and cultural heritage.
Macadamia Nut Factory Tour — Located not far from Hilo, the world's leading macadamia nut producer offers factory tours that are one of the Big Island's most popular visitor attractions. Free to visit with samples available.
Merrie Monarch Festival — Held each spring beginning on Easter Sunday, this annual week-long festival is the world's preeminent hula competition — bringing participants and visitors from across the globe. If your port day coincides, it's an extraordinary cultural experience.
Beaches & Outdoors in Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island)
The best beaches, parks, and outdoor experiences for cruise passengers.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
About 40 minutes south of Hilo past the volcano — Hawaii's most famous black sand beach. Jet-black volcanic sand meets turquoise water, and Hawaiian green sea turtles regularly haul out on the beach to rest. A genuinely extraordinary natural sight. Do not approach, touch, or disturb the turtles — they are federally protected.
Richardson's Ocean Park
A local favorite near Hilo — part of a marine conservation district. Good snorkeling and swimming in relatively calm water. Dolphins, sea turtles, and occasionally humpback whales are spotted here. Restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on site.
Onekahakaha Beach Park
A small, shallow sand-bottomed ocean pool — one of the safest swimming areas on the Hilo coast and excellent for families with children. Wide pools and inlets, some white sand, and easy water access. Restrooms and lifeguards available.
Shopping in Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island)
Where to shop and what to look for.
🛍️ Hilo has a wonderful mix of local artisan shops, markets, and familiar retailers along Kamehameha Avenue and nearby streets:
Hilo Farmers Market
Corner of Kamehameha Ave & Mamo Street · Free shuttle from pier on cruise days
Over 200 local farmers and crafters selling fresh tropical produce, flowers, local honey, macadamia products, and handmade Hawaiian gifts. One of the finest farmers markets in Hawaii — a must-visit on any Hilo port day. Free shuttle from the pier in the morning.
The Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo
256 Kamehameha Avenue
Packed with unique gifts and souvenirs — a genuine favorite with locals and visitors. Wide selection of quirky, creative, and genuinely Hawaiian items. One of downtown Hilo's most beloved independent shops.
Sig Zane Designs
122 Kamehameha Avenue
Designer clothing for men and women with genuine Hawaiian prints rooted in traditional motifs and local flora. One of the most respected Hawaiian fashion brands — made in Hilo, not imported.
Hilo Aloha Wear
300 Kamehameha Avenue
Everything Hawaiian clothing — aloha shirts, dresses, and traditional Hawaiian apparel. The go-to stop for wearable souvenirs.
Life is Wabi-Sabi
278 Kilauea Avenue
Handmade, unique, one-of-a-kind artwork inspired by the Japanese concept of finding beauty in imperfection. Framed prints, magnets, t-shirts, and original art — all distinctly local.
The Knickknackery Antiques & Collectibles
84 Ponahawai Street
Vintage Hawaiian, antiques, and unusual collectibles — the perfect stop for those who want something genuinely different from standard souvenir fare.
Prince Kuhio Plaza
The main indoor mall with familiar brands including Bath & Body Works, Zumiez, GNC, Zales, and Regal Cinemas. Also has a Walmart and Target nearby for everyday essentials.
Dining in Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island)
Where to eat and drink ashore.
🍽️ Hilo has an excellent and diverse restaurant scene — fresh local seafood, Hawaiian staples, Asian fusion, and exceptional snacks. Here are the best-reviewed options:
Pineapple's Island Fresh Cuisine
332 Keawe Street · Vegan Friendly
Local cuisine with American, Polynesian, Hawaiian, and seafood options. One of Hilo's most beloved restaurants for fresh, island-inspired cooking. Vegan and vegetarian-friendly.
Moon and Turtle
51 Kalākaua Street · Small & Intimate
A small, cozy restaurant with seafood dishes and fresh local produce. Japanese, Hawaiian, and international options on the rotating menu. One of Hilo's most consistently praised dining experiences.
Paul's Place Cafe
132 Punahoa Street · Reservations Required
An intimate breakfast and lunch spot with only three tables — vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options available. Has 242 "Excellent" ratings out of 284 on Tripadvisor. Book ahead.
Hilo Bay Cafe
123 Lihiwai Street
Local cuisine, American, fusion, and sushi — plus excellent sorbet and mochi ice cream. One of Hilo's most complete dining experiences with broad menu appeal.
Puka Puka Kitchen
270 Kamehameha Avenue · Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Options
Asian and Hawaiian-themed restaurant with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Also offers pre-made bento boxes — perfect for a beach picnic after ordering.
Suisan Fish Market
93 Lihiwai Street · Fish Market & Takeout Window
The most affordable and delicious place in Hilo to try poké — raw ahi tuna mixed with soy sauce, sesame oil, and various seasonings. A genuinely essential Hawaiian food experience. Order from the takeout window and watch the fish market in action.
Two Ladies Kitchen
274 Kilauea Avenue · Dessert
Stop here for mochi — Japanese rice paste confections in over two dozen flavors including passionfruit and strawberry. A Hilo institution and one of the most unique food stops on the Big Island.
Sombat's Fresh Thai Cuisine
88 Kanoelehua · Dinner Only
Multiple curries, pad Thai, papaya salad, and noodle dishes. The spicy fried rice with beef is a guest favorite. Note: currently open for dinner only.
Top Tours & Shore Excursions
Book before you board for best availability and pricing.
Half Day Sportfishing - Kona
Cast off from Hilo for a world-class deep sea fishing adventure in the waters of the Big Island. The Kona Coast is legen...
Book This Tour →Kona History by Segway
Glide through the historic streets of Kona Town on a Segway and discover the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii's Big Isla...
Book This Tour →Diamond Head Crater Adventure
Hike to the summit of Diamond Head crater for breathtaking panoramic views of Hawaii's coastline and volcanic landscape....
Book This Tour →Hilo, Hawaii (Big Island) – FAQ
Common questions from cruise passengers.
What is Hilo Hawaii known for?
Hilo is the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — home to Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. The Big Island is also known for its incredible diversity: black sand beaches, snow-capped Mauna Kea, lush rainforests, and coffee and macadamia nut farms.
Can I see lava in Hilo?
It depends on current volcanic activity. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park always has fascinating features — steam vents, lava tube caves, and the Kilauea caldera — even when there is no active surface lava flow. Check the USGS Hawaii Volcano Observatory for current activity updates.
What is the best excursion from Hilo?
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the must-do excursion from Hilo. Rainbow Falls, the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo, and the black sand beaches at Punalu'u are also excellent options.
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