Curator’s statement
If you are on the Big Island Of Hawai'i, you are going to want to go to Hilo to see the largest and most active volcano. If you are in Hilo, it is a roughly 30-mile drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. And if you want to be in Hilo, you want to stay at the old grand dame of the waterfront, The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.
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Hilo Hawaiian pool
The view of the waterfront includes an island, with a walkway to it. There is a palm tree with bands representing each tsunami that has hit this tiny island—you will not believe the 1950s one!
Walkway from Hilo Hawaiian Hotel across the ocean to Coconut Island
The waterfront view was about another $30, which was well worth it. They were running a marathon race on the lawn under our balcony when we were there—this is the center of the action in Hilo!
On Coconut Island, Hilo, Big Island of Hawai'i
The town of Hilo itself is maybe three to five blocks away, and it couldn't be further from the glitz and glamour of, say, Honolulu. From the town to the main hotel, it all looks like it dates back to the 60s, and it definitely has that authentic, laid-back, slow-moving Hawaiian feel, wherever you go.
Rustic buildings in Downtown Hilo
My daughter found the best shave ice place, next to quaint souvenir/gift shops that had amazing scents, tapestries, and even clothes. The town is dotted with interesting places to eat—take your pick!
Best Hawaiian shave ice!
The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel also has the town's only steakhouse and a lively bar, both directly facing the waterfront. They also serve breakfast in the lounge, so you don't have to go anywhere!
Coconut Island View, Hilo, Big Island of Hawai'i
Need to know
Before we stayed at the Hilo Hawaiian, the volcano was spewing lava 500 feet in the air, and afterwards, we saw the weatherman turning his laptop to show us similar lava spewing. You can get a live feed from the edge of the volcano, and you are an hour drive away, at the drop of a hat. We missed the lava, but loved the surrounding walks, the old-time lodge on the edge of the crater, and the steam vents—but we ARE coming back to see the lava, for sure!
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hawai'i page.
Travel Advisor
Andrew Larder
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