Location & Transportation
I always love the warm welcome in Hilo! Cruise ships dock at a port just minutes from town, where you might even catch a special local show featuring traditional Hawaiian music and dancing, plus some unique souvenirs for sale. The gangway ramp is about 2 miles from the center of town, and while it’s possible to walk, part of the route goes through industrial areas under the tropical sun (or rain). If you decide to walk, be sure to wear a hat, sunscreen, and grab an umbrella if needed.
For a more comfortable option, hop on the County Mass Transit’s Hele On Bus. The bus, which stops right by Keaukaha Market outside the dock, costs only $1.00 and has several pick-up times throughout the day (note: buses do not run on Sundays). A metered taxi is another easy choice, usually costing around $12–$15 to get you downtown.
Nearby Lodging
If you’re staying overnight in Hilo, there are several cozy hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in downtown Hilo where you can enjoy that famous island hospitality. Staying local means you’ll be steps away from shops, eateries, and the friendly pulse of the town.
Nearest Airport
Hilo International Airport (ITO) is conveniently close, making it an easy hop in or out if your travels require a flight. Taxis and rental cars are readily available right from the airport to whisk you into town.
Sightseeing
Hilo is a feast for the senses! Nestled on the crescent-shaped shore of Hilo Bay, the city is a lush greenhouse of tropical plants, breathtaking waterfalls, and vibrant colors. One of the unmissable highlights is the nearby Volcanoes National Park. I was awestruck by the dynamic views of Kilauea Crater—the world’s most active volcano—and the dramatic backdrop of Mauna Kea.
Wander through downtown Hilo to admire Hawaii’s largest collection of historic buildings, sample local art in small museums, and relax at the serene Nani Mau Gardens. The natural black sand beaches along the coast, with their striking contrast to the blue, glassy waters, round out the picture of a truly unique island experience.
Tours & Excursions
There’s plenty to do if you want to explore more of what Hilo has to offer. One of my favorite local events is Hilo Hula Days: 100 Days of Aloha by the Bay. It’s a free, daily event held at the Mooheau Bandstand (from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) where you can enjoy live Hawaiian music, hula performances, and crafts up close.
If you’re up for a walk, downtown Hilo is very pedestrian-friendly with plenty of hidden gems. Consider joining a local walking tour to soak in the history, vibrant street art, and authentic island lifestyle. And for a day trip into nature’s wonders, a visit to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is absolutely worth it.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Take a leisurely stroll along the bay front and explore the quaint shops on Kamehameha Avenue. I love browsing for locally printed fabrics—many boutiques offer beautiful Polynesian and Hawaiian designs, along with unique handcrafted items and souvenirs. Keep in mind that many of these shops are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping trip accordingly.
Dining
Hilo’s dining scene is refreshingly simple and authentic. Whether you crave a light snack or a hearty meal, you’ll find local cafés and restaurants serving up fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and classic Hawaiian dishes. Don’t miss a visit to the Hilo Farmer's Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It’s a lively spot with a bounty of fresh produce, native crafts, and even a free shuttle service to make your visit easier.
Culture & Local Events
Hilo’s culture is as warm as the tropical sun. Here’s a little insider info to help you blend right in:
Local Events
- Every day when a ship docks, you might catch the festive Hilo Hula Days: 100 Days of Aloha by the Bay at the Mooheau Bandstand. It’s a special event with live Hawaiian music, hula, and crafts that really shows off the aloha spirit!
Safety & Awareness
- The people of Hilo are friendly and welcoming, but as a traveler, always keep an eye on your belongings just like anywhere else.
- Most stores in town close on Sundays, so plan your shopping and dining outings accordingly.
- For payments, note that everything runs on the US dollar and most places accept major credit cards—though a bit of cash is handy.
- And just a quick tip: in case of any emergency, remember to dial 911.