Travel

6 Things To Do In Hilo

We ended up loving Hilo far more than we had anticipated, with a laid-back local vibe, breathtaking forest backdrop, and plenty of activities. Nearly 45,000 people call Hilo home on the east coast of the Big Island, making it the largest city on the island more than three times its size relative to Kailua Kona. Hilo is more of a local, residential city than its tourism-oriented relative, Kona. Both residents and visitors will find a good mix of edgy, bohemian attitudes here. On this side of the island, the costs are often less, and the vibe is more relaxed back. Hilo is also notorious for rain; hence, be sure to carry an umbrella and a raincoat. The good news is all the rainfall (140 inches yearly) makes this region exceptionally lush and verdant, with numerous of waterfalls. Street art, university students, attractive cafés, and plenty of open space all make Hilo a town that