East Side Hilo Area

Liliuokalani Gardens / Banyan Drive

Banyan Drive is a scenic route along Hilo Bay, lined with beautiful public parks that culminate in the serene Liliuokalani Gardens, a Japanese garden by the water. Enjoy a meal at Hilo Bay Cafe just outside the park.

Paradise Helicopters

Experience a breathtaking waterfalls-by-air tour. While there’s no active lava flow to see currently, the aerial views are stunning. Tours depart from Hilo Airport, lobby 2 main terminal. Contact: 808-969-7392.

Rainbow Falls

A quick and easy stop, this “drive-through” waterfall is handicap accessible. Visit around 9-10am to catch a rainbow over the falls. Located conveniently in town.

Kaumana Caves

Just a short distance from Rainbow Falls, Kaumana Caves is a 25-mile network of lava tubes. Easily accessible from the road, you can take a peek inside or explore deeper with a headlamp—cell phones won’t suffice for serious exploration

Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens

Located at 800 Stainback Highway, this unique zoo features a variety of animals and a lush botanical garden.

Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

A marine discovery center offering engaging activities for children. Contact: 808-933-8180.

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Explore the wonders of astronomy and Hawaiian culture at this interactive museum and planetarium.

Hilo Farmers Market

A bustling market open daily with a larger selection on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Find local produce, crafts, and delicious prepared foods.

Pacific Tsunami Museum

Learn about the history and impact of tsunamis in Hawaii through engaging exhibits and personal stories. Contact: 808-935-0926.

Hamakua Coast Area

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens

Just north of Hilo, this stunning garden is a must-visit for its beauty and photo opportunities. Located on Scenic Drive Road. Contact: 808-964-5233.

Umauma Falls Ziplining

Experience the thrill of ziplining over rivers and waterfalls. They also offer a Zip and Dip tour for swimming in the river. Contact: 808-930-9477.

Akaka Falls State Park

Featuring a tall waterfall within a beautiful park with botanical garden-like paths. Plan for about 45 minutes to explore.

Kalopa Native Forest State Park

Enjoy hiking through a natural forest rich with native flora.

Hawaiian Vanilla Company

Tour this vanilla farm and enjoy tastings in their charming facility. Contact: 808-776-1771.

Flumin’ the Ditch

Float down old sugar cane irrigation canals in inflatable kayaks. This relaxing two-hour tour is great for kids and offers beautiful countryside views. Contact: 808-889-6000.

Laupahoehoe Train Museum

Discover the history of the trains that serviced the area’s sugarcane plantations.

East Side Beaches

Kolekole Beach Park: A cool beach park in a gulch with a small waterfall and shallow pool popular for kids.

Honolii Beach Park: A well-known local surf spot.

Richardson Beach Park: A black sand beach with good snorkeling opportunities.

Reed’s Bay Beach Park: A calm bay great for swimming and paddleboarding.

Carlsmith Beach Park: Known for its clear waters and often seeing sea turtles.

Hilo Area Restaurants

Hilo Bay Cafe: A favorite for its location, ambiance, and delicious food.

Cafe Pesto: Located in the historic Bayfront area, this charming Italian restaurant offers great food, though it lacks gluten-free options.

Pineapples: An open-air patio restaurant with a casual, local fusion menu, local beers, and fun cocktails. Perfect for lunch or happy hour.

Hawaiian Style Cafe: Renowned for the best local breakfast, though expect long waits and no gluten-free options.

Hula Hula’s: Located at the Grand Naniloa Resort, this oceanfront spot offers a great menu with gluten-free options and live music at night. Reservations recommended. Contact: 808-932-4545.

WikiFresh: A local favorite similar to Chipotle, offering tacos, salad bowls, and burritos with local ingredients. Contact: 808-930-9454.

Conscious Culture Cafe: Sustainable and locally sourced vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Sweet Cane Cafe: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options with mostly organic and house-made items.

Vibe: A vegetarian restaurant famous for its Beet Poke.

East Side Hikes

Onomea Bay Trail: A scenic hike next to the botanical gardens.

Narnia: A hidden gem up the Wailuku River, known for its multiple waterfalls and lush surroundings.