Hilo

Hilo is East Hawaii's main town, known for Hilo Bay, waterfalls, gardens, museums, rainforests, local culture and easy access to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Hilo, Big Island

Situated on the rainy windward side of the Big Island, Hilo is the wettest city in the United States with an average rainfall of 128 inches (325 cm) annually. The University of Hawaii and Hilo International Airport serve the education and transportation needs of the community. The city is the largest on this side of the Big Island, as well as the most tropical in Hawaii. Because of the abundance of rain, everything flourishes and exotic flowers and lush greenery are a normal part of the landscape.

Polynesians who lived along the shores of Hilo Bay first inhabited the area in 1100 A.C. As farmers and fishermen, they traded goods along the Wailuku River. In 1700, under King Kamehameha's rule, Hilo became the center of political activity and social growth. In the early 19th century, missionaries brought not only Christianity, but also Western education which further changed the lifestyle of the native Hawaiians, and Hilo grew into a commercial center.

The booming sugar industry led to the construction of wharfs, a breakwater and a railroad that connected Hilo to other parts of the island. On April 1, 1946, a tsunami hit the island and killed 96 people in Hilo alone (and 159 people in total). It also destroyed much of Hilo’s waterfront, as well as train trestles and bridges. Hilo then rebuilt its waterfront, but in 1960, another tsunami hit, killing 61 people and again destroyed most coastal buildings. After that, no one wanted to live near the ocean anymore, so today, Hilo's bayfront is mainly shops, parks and open space.

Key Features

East Hawaii hub: Main town on the Big Island's windward side
Rainy tropical setting: Frequent showers keep the area green and lush
Bayfront history: Tsunamis in 1946 and 1960 reshaped the waterfront
Cultural center: Home to the Merrie Monarch Festival and several museums
Nearby waterfalls: Close to Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots and Wailuku River viewpoints
Garden scenery: Near Liliuokalani Gardens, Coconut Island and tropical garden stops
Population: 44,186 at the 2020 Census
Zip code: 96720

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Hilo on the Big Island?

Hilo is on the Big Island's windward east side. It sits on Hilo Bay and serves as the main town for East Hawaii.

What is Hilo known for?

Hilo is known for waterfalls, tropical gardens, historic downtown buildings, Hilo Bay, local museums, the Merrie Monarch Festival and its lush rainy climate.

Is Hilo a good place to stay?

Hilo is a good base for travelers who want easy access to waterfalls, gardens, museums, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Hamakua Coast. It feels more local and less resort-focused than the Kona side.

Does it rain a lot in Hilo?

Yes. Hilo is one of the rainiest cities in the United States, which keeps the area green and tropical. Visitors should bring light rain gear and expect passing showers.

What are the best nearby places to visit from Hilo?

Popular nearby stops include Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, Liliuokalani Gardens, Coconut Island, Hilo Bayfront, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.