Things To Do/Food
Rainbow Falls
Free tourist attraction- If it is sunny/ a bit rainy there will be a rainbow that hits the waterfall. (free)
Akaka Falls State Park
A paved trail to see some massive waterfalls! (Paid around $15 entry fee)
Richardson Ocean Park
Great Black Sand Beach and you may see some honu (turtles). Also great snorkeling beach! (free)
Carlsmith Beach Park
Not sandy, but great park to get some sun! Has a railing to get in/out the ocean. Decent snorkeling area, but great for lounging in the ocean. (free)
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
National park about 30-40 minutes from Hilo; worth it. Bring your tennis shoes! ($30 for the vehicle with up to 14 passengers)
Onekahakaha Beach Park
Where we will have our reception! You are more than welcome to go there before/after though. Not too sandy, but great area for kids as there are tide pools. Some great views of the island and Mauna Kea if it is a clear day. (free)
Hilo Farmer's Market
Great place to see a farmer's market with fresh fruit and vegetables. They only take cash if you want to buy! There is a long strip that goes along the bay with downtown shops and dining!
Coconut Island
Small island to walk and even swim. When the tide is low, there is a small sandy beach. Liliʻuokalani Gardens is right next to the island, and is a great walk. (free)
Waipio Valley Lookout
About an hour north from Hilo, there is a great lookout of Waipi'o Valley with great Hawaiian History- It is closed to drive/hike all the way down. You will travel on a scenery drive to get there (Hawaii Belt Road). (free)
Kaumana Caves
Caves made from lava tubes! (free)
Pacific Tsunami Museum
History of tsunamis, and the tsunami that hit Hilo Town years ago. (0-5: free, 6-17: $4, 17up: $8)
Punalu'u Bake Shop
A far drive, but worth it for it's famous sweet bread. (depending on what you want to purchase)
Punalu'u Beach
Black sand beach! (free)
Kahalu’u Beach Park
On the other side of where our wedding is, but great snorkeling spot. (free, but snorkeling gear is not provided)
Tetsumen
Amazing saimin! Cost: $$
Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo
The best Hawaiian food! Choke food with plenty of leftovers :) Watch out for the opening/closing times; there may be a wait time. Cost: $$
Cafe 100
Home of the famous loco moco! Drive-in and fast food style. Cost: $
Ponds Hilo
Sit down by the ponds! Cost: $$$
Miyo's Restaurant
Fine dining, great Japanese cuisine! Cost: $$$
Hilo Burger Joint
Brett and I love going here for a good ol' burger! Cost: $$
The Booch Bar
A great vegan/vegetarian place to go! Cost: $$
The Temple Bar
Great for sitting and munching on pupus (appetizers) and having a drink Cost: $$
Poke N Sides @ the Hilo Farmers Market
Great poke and next to it is shave ice! There are also many items to choose from than just poke. Can stop in for lunch after you visit downtown Hilo and the Farmer's Market! Cost: can range from $ to $$
Makani’s Magic Pineapple Shack
Some good acai bowls/ smoothies! Cost: $ to $$
Vibe Cafe
Another great vegan/vegetarian friendly place. Cost: $$