Hilo , United States

Hilo Finest Waterfalls and Town Tour

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About this experience

Explore the Big Island’s treasures on a 5.5-6 hour tour that showcases Hilo’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. Begin with a scenic photo stop at Rainbow Falls , Akaka falls and Liliʻuokalani Gardens, followed by a trip to delight in the craftsmanship at Big Island Candies, then meander through the Hilo Farmers Market to discover local produce and crafts. this tour offers the perfect blend of nature, culture,history and local flavors.

- Duration: 5.5 hours with convenient pick-up at Port of Hilo or Hilo hotel
- Enjoy visits to local favorites like the Big Island Candies and the Hilo farmers market
- Learn from a local guide about Hawaiian culture, geology, and history
- Includes comfortable transportation, complimentary water, and a local snack

Available options

Hilo Finest Waterfalls and Town Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Admission fee

Bottled water

Snacks

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Sight seeing of the Japanese Tea Garden dedicated in honor of the last reigning Hawaiian Monarch , Queen Liliokulani. Explore the beautiful terrain , enjoy the incredible views of Hilo Bay while your tour guide teaches you the history of the Hawaiian Kindom , Hilo History and remarks on the biodiversity of the gardens .

Stop 2

Take a trip into the Historic District and Heart of Hilo's Downtown . Explore the unique variety of local artisans , souvenirs, Local produce, flowers and gourmet food products.
Hilo Farmers Market is an excellent showcase of the farming diversity in Hilo, the variety of local Art , and a taste of living in Hilo with the many mixing of cultures from around the Pacific Rim and the richness of the land .

Stop 3

This beautiful 80 foot waterfall , known for its large rainbows in the mist of the early morning sun , is nestled in the jungle just above Hilo . This stop offers easy and quick views of the rushing falls cascading over the 10,000 year old lava flow of Mauna Loa surrounded by the lush tropical flora.

Stop 4

The majestic 442 Ft falls of Akaka offers a short walk (0.4 mile) through the lush Hawaiian Rainforest on a paved loop trail leading to the breath taking view of this stunning waterfall plunging into the deep misty gorge of Hamakua. Countless spots to capture the dramatic falls and the unique tropical landscape.

Take a trip back into the slow and quaint ways of "old Hawaii" while stepping into the charming town of Honomu. This stop offers guest the chance to purchase a lunch,snack or coffee from one of multiple local restaurants and to shop at the local boutiques. Your guide will escort you through town and help bring the history of Honomu town to life.

The Pepeekeo scenic route drive is a short four mile detour off the highway that showcases the ocean views , tropical rainforest , and rivers of the Hamakua coast and its vibrant scenery . You will see the unique features of this landscape, including a waterfall flowing through a lava tube !

For this stop along the tour guest will visit the statue of our King Kamehameha The Great , learning about the remarkable and legendary history of the Hawaiian Kindom . Following this is a trip to the famous Hilo Bayfront, home to the canoe regattas and offering captivating views of the adorable coastal town of Hilo Hawaii.

A Local favorite for a wide variety of sweet treats hand crafted in Hilo.

What's not included

Tour Guides are considered to be members of the service industry and are allowed to accept tips .

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Hilo

Hilo, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant culture. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and authentic Hawaiian hospitality.

Top Attractions

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore lava tubes, craters, and scenic overlooks.

Nature Full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Rainbow Falls

A beautiful waterfall located in a lush, tropical setting. The falls are especially stunning in the early morning light.

Nature 30-60 minutes Free

Liliuokalani Gardens

A beautiful, historic park with Japanese-inspired gardens, ponds, and bridges. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of Hilo.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's often served over rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Loco Moco

A Hawaiian comfort food dish made with rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, eggs, gluten (gravy)

Shave Ice

A popular Hawaiian treat made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. It's often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegan options available (ask for no condensed milk or ice cream)

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Stargazing Beach lounging Spas Scenic drives Museum visits Historical sites

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers the most pleasant weather with lower rainfall and ideal temperatures for outdoor activities.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hilo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strong currents and rip tides when swimming or engaging in water activities

Getting there

By air

Hilo International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center

By bus

Hilo Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Hilo, but schedules may be limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Hilo Pana'ewa

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 miles (48 km) north of Hilo • Full day

The Mauna Kea summit offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Akaka Falls State Park

11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo • Half day

This state park is home to the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.

Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

25 miles (40 km) south of Hilo • Half day

This private garden and reserve offers a variety of tropical plants, exotic birds, and scenic views.

Festivals

Hilo International Festival • Late September to early November Merrie Monarch Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Hilo Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and Hawaiian souvenirs
Explore the city's historic sites and museums to learn about Hilo's rich cultural heritage
Take a guided tour of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park to learn about the park's geology and history
Try local foods and support local businesses to get a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine
Be prepared for rain and bring a rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the wet season