How to Plan Your Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park Tour in Hilo

Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park is an incredible sight to behold and is considered to be one of the most mesmerizing national parks in the United States. If you’re visiting Hilo, Hawaii, this incredible park is a must-visit on your itinerary. However, navigating around the park on your own and trying to reach its various vantage points can be an overwhelming task. That’s why Viator offers a stress-free and convenient driving tour of the Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park, ensuring you have more time to explore and less time dealing with logistics. Here’s how you can plan your Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park tour in Hilo and make the most of your visit.

Overview of the Tour

This driving tour of Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park includes hotel pickup from Hilo port and will take you straight to some of the park’s most iconic locations, including the steam vents and the overlook at Kilauea Caldera. You’ll have plenty of time to explore these magnificent natural wonders and take in the stunning views. The tour allows enough time to visit other attractions in the area such as the Akatsuka Orchid Gardens and the Hilo Coffee Mill, and even includes a stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Farm.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes all fees and taxes, making it an all-inclusive experience for visitors. Along with the transportation and the stops at the national park and other attractions, the tour also includes pickup from specific locations in Hilo. You’ll meet your tour guide at the designated pickup point at 8:00 AM, and the tour lasts for several hours, allowing you to make the most of your time in Hilo.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Hilo, and from there, the tour guide will take you to the first stop at Liliuokalani Gardens, where you can take a leisurely stroll and admire the stunning views of coconut trees, ponds, and ornamental bridges. Next, head to Rainbow Falls, where you can see a beautiful waterfall cascading from a height of 80 feet. The next stop is at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, which is a famous destination for tourists because of its black sand and turtle sightings along the shoreline. After this, the tour takes you to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can take a guided walk around the park’s highlights. Your guide will take you to the Steam Vents in the park, where you’ll see steam seeping out of the ground, created by the heat from the active Kilauea volcano. You’ll then head to the Kilauea Caldera overlook, which is one of the park’s most famous vantage points offering some spectacular views of the park’s most active volcano. From there, the tour heads back to Hilo, and you’ll stop at the Akatsuka Orchid Gardens, which features an array of colorful orchids, and then later, you’ll proceed to the Hilo Coffee Mill, where you can sample locally grown coffee beans, and then finally stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia farm.

Pickup Points and Start Times

The tour guides operate an 8:00 AM pickup service, so make sure you’re ready at the designated pickup point at the best time to avoid delays. You can select your preferred pickup point in Hilo during the booking process.

Booking the Tour

Booking the tour is easy with Viator. Use the following link to reach the tour booking page: book the tour here. You can easily book the tour by selecting your desired date, the number of participants, and the pickup location. Payments can be made securely online, and you can even reach out to Viator’s customer care team should you have any concerns or queries.

Book Your Tour Now

Exploring Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park on your own can be a daunting task. That’s why Viator’s guided tour is a great way to make the most of your visit. The tour includes everything visitors want to experience, from the park’s iconic spots to other popular attractions in Hilo, and the best part is, you don’t have to worry about transportation and logistics because it’s pre-arranged for you. So, if you’re planning to visit Hawaiis Volcanoes National Park in Hilo, Hawaii, consider booking Viator’s guided tour and focus on enjoying the magnificent natural beauty Hawaii has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hilo, Hawaii

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, Hilo is one of the cities you should definitely consider visiting. Situated on the east side of the island of Hawaii, Hilo offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some frequently asked questions about Hilo to help you plan your trip:

1. What is the best time to visit Hilo?

The best time to visit Hilo is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the crowd is relatively smaller. At this time, the average temperature in Hilo is in the low to mid-70s, and the rainfall is at its minimum.

2. What are the popular tourist attractions in Hilo?

Hilo is home to several popular tourist attractions, including:

2.1 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:

A must-visit attraction in Hilo is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, you can witness stunning scenery of Kilauea and Mauna Loa – two of the world’s most active volcanoes.

2.2 Rainbow Falls:

Another popular attraction is Rainbow Falls, where you can enjoy a scenic waterfall that produces rainbow colors each morning.

2.3 Liliuokalani Park and Gardens:

This beautiful park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan.

3. What are the best beaches in Hilo?

Hilo may not be known for its beaches, but there are still some beautiful shorelines worth visiting, including:

3.1 Carlsmith Beach Park:

This is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, and picnicking. You can also see green sea turtles here.

3.2 Onekahakaha Beach Park:

A family-friendly beach that is safe for swimming and playing in the sand.

4. What activities can I do in Hilo?

Aside from visiting tourist attractions and beaches, there are several activities you can do in Hilo, including:

4.1 Visit the farmer’s market:

A visit to the Hilo Farmers Market is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and taste some fresh produce.

4.2 Take a helicopter tour:

A helicopter tour over Hilo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will give you a unique perspective of the city and its natural surroundings.

4.3 Go on a hike:

The natural beauty of Hilo is best experienced on foot. There are several scenic hiking trails, including the Waipi’o Valley Trail.

5. What are the best restaurants in Hilo?

Hilo’s food scene is quite diverse, offering cuisines from all over the world. Some of the best restaurants in Hilo include:

5.1 Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine:

This restaurant offers Hawaiian-inspired dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

5.2 Moon and Turtle:

This is a perfect place for those who love seafood, featuring the freshest catch of the day in its menu.

5.3 Café Pesto:

Known for its fine dining experience, this restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, friendly service, and an extensive wine list.

6. How do I get around Hilo?

The best way to get around Hilo is by rental car. Many car rental companies offer airport pickup and drop-off services. Taxis and ride-shares are also available but can be more expensive.

7. What is the climate like in Hilo?

Hilo has a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it is warm and humid all year-round. The average temperature in Hilo ranges from the high 60s to the low 80s. Hilo is also one of the wettest cities in the United States, receiving an average of 126 inches of rainfall per year.

8. Is it safe to visit Hilo?

Hilo is a relatively safe city to visit, with a low crime rate. However, as with any destination, it is always important to exercise caution, especially when traveling alone at night.

9. Where should I stay in Hilo?

Hilo offers a range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly hotels, and vacation rentals. Some popular places to stay in Hilo are Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Grand Naniloa Hotel, and Hale Ohia Cottages.

10. Can I visit Hilo on a day trip?

While it is possible to visit some of the popular attractions in Hilo on a day trip, we recommend staying overnight to truly experience everything Hilo has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hilo: A Comprehensive Guide

Hilo, located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a perfect place for tourists who want a taste of both natural beauty and rich culture. With so many things to do in this charming town, planning your itinerary can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will walk you through some of the top things to do in Hilo, so that you can make the most of your time in this paradise.

1. Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

One of the biggest attractions in Hilo is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which makes it a unique and awe-inspiring place to visit. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and scenic drives. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center to get information about the park and its activities.

Things to do in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

• Visit the Kilauea Visitor Center
• Hike the Devastation Trail and see the results of the Kilauea Iki eruption
• Take a drive along Crater Rim Drive and see the smoking Halema’uma’u Crater
• Visit the Thurston Lava Tube, a natural tunnel formed by flowing lava
• Experience a traditional Hawaiian ceremony at the Volcano House hotel

2. Explore the Hilo Farmers Market

The Hilo Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and anyone interested in local culture. The market is open every day, but it’s best to visit on Wednesdays and Saturdays when the market is at its largest. Here, you can find locally grown fruits and vegetables, handmade crafts, and delicious Hawaiian dishes. Be sure to try some Hawaiian specialties like laulau, poke, and shaved ice.

What to expect at the Hilo Farmers Market

• A huge variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables
• Handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans
• A wide range of prepared foods and snacks, such as fresh coconuts, smoothies, and baked goods
• A lively and bustling atmosphere with live music and entertainment

3. Visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Located just north of Hilo, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a serene and beautiful place to visit. The garden is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants, many of which are native to Hawaii. Walking through the garden’s trails is a peaceful and educational experience. The garden is also home to many birds and other wildlife.

Things to do at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

• Take a self-guided tour of the garden’s trails
• Visit the Garden’s waterfall, a picturesque spot for photos
• See a collection of rare and endangered tropical plants
• Visit the Garden’s nursery and take home a plant to remember your trip by

4. Walk Along Hilo’s Bayfront

Hilo’s Bayfront is a historic and scenic part of town that’s worth exploring on foot. The Bayfront is home to many historic buildings, such as the Hilo Masonic Temple, the S. Hata Building, and the Hilo Iron Works Building. Walking along the Bayfront is also a great way to see local art and culture, with many galleries and museums located in the area.

Attractions on Hilo’s Bayfront

• The East Hawaii Cultural Center, featuring contemporary and traditional art exhibitions
• The Lyman Museum and Mission House, showcasing the history of Hilo and Hawaii
• The Pacific Tsunami Museum, educating visitors about the science and history of tsunamis
• Several art galleries, showcasing work by local artists

5. See the Rainbow Falls

One of the most iconic waterfalls in Hawaii, Rainbow Falls is located just a short distance from Hilo. The waterfall is named for the rainbows that can often be seen in its mist. Visitors can walk down a short path to get a closer view of the waterfall, which has a height of about 80 feet.

Visiting the Rainbow Falls

• Bring a camera to capture the stunning view of the waterfall and rainbows
• The waterfall is usually less crowded in the morning, so it’s a good idea to visit early
• Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike to the bottom of the waterfall
• Visit the nearby Banyan Drive to see a collection of impressive banyan trees

Book Your Tour Now

Hilo, Hawaii’s Big Island, offers a wide variety of natural and cultural attractions that make it a perfect destination for tourists. From exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to strolling Hilo’s historic Bayfront, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your time in Hilo and create unforgettable memories.