Hilo Clock

Big Island Attraction Guide

Hilo Clock

Hilo Clock is a Big Island tsunami memorial stopped at 1:04 a.m., marking the May 23, 1960 wave that struck Hilo's bayfront.

Information and Pictures
Information and Pictures

Hilo Clock, Big Island

Hilo was hit by tsunamis twice in the past century. The first time was on April 1, 1946, when a tsunami that was generated by a large earthquake off of Alaska hit the cities of Hilo and Laupahoehoe, killing 159 people and causing a lot of damage to Hilo’s bayfront and other east-facing shorelines on the Big Island. On May 23, 1960, another tsunami (this time generated by an earthquake off of Chile), again hit Hilo, this time killing 61 people.

The clock (which stood in the city at that time) was hit by the 1960 tsunami and since then stands with its hands frozen in time – 1:04 a.m. Townspeople refurbished it, but decided against restoring it to working order in honor of those who perished in the tidal waves. The clock is located on Kamehameha Avenue in front of the Naniloa Golf Course.

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Location, Parking and Directions

Hilo Clock is located along Kamehameha Avenue in Hilo, near the Naniloa Golf Course and Hilo bayfront area. It is easy to include while driving or walking through the waterfront side of town. Use nearby public parking where allowed and watch for traffic along the bayfront road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Hilo Clock located?

Hilo Clock is located along Kamehameha Avenue in Hilo, near the Naniloa Golf Course and the Hilo bayfront area.

Why is Hilo Clock stopped?

The clock remains stopped at 1:04 a.m. as a memorial to the tsunami that struck Hilo on May 23, 1960.

When did the 1960 Hilo tsunami happen?

The 1960 tsunami struck Hilo in the early morning hours of May 23, 1960, after a major earthquake off the coast of Chile sent waves across the Pacific.

Was Hilo also hit by another major tsunami?

Yes. Hilo was also heavily affected by the April 1, 1946 tsunami, which caused major damage and loss of life on Hawaii Island's east-facing shores.

How long does it take to visit Hilo Clock?

Most visitors only need a few minutes. It is a short historic stop best combined with other Hilo bayfront or downtown sights.