Aloha! For anyone preparing for a trip to Hilo, Hawaii, there are an endless amount of activities and sightseeing possibilities available to its visitors! From exciting excursions like zip-lining, to more relaxing, down-to-earth activities such as Farmers Markets, or a classic day at the beach, there are an abundance of attractions in Hilo, Hawai’i. If you're wanting ideas, needing help planning your vacation, continue reading to find out what to do in Hilo, Hawai’i on the Big Island.

Carlsmith Beach Park in Hilo

Nothing says Hawai’i like a day at the beach! Head to Carlsmith Beach Park and check out a lagoon-style beach which features anchialine, a landlocked body of water with a subterranean connection to the ocean. Locals famously know this area as The 4 Mile! Because of its pool-like layout, Carlsmith beach is one of the best places to visit for swimming or snorkeling on the island, and is the ideal location for families with children. Unlike a traditional beach with sand, you will instead find well maintained grass areas and picnic tables in the areas surrounding the water. Feel like you are swimming amongst mermaids when you float along this unique blue lagoon, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for honu (sea turtles), as they are frequent visitors of this shallow area!

The Farmers Market in Hilo, Hawaii

On Saturdays and Wednesdays, over 200 local farmers gather to share their fresh produce, crafts, and art with the community. You will have the chance to enjoy foods that are harvested right in Hilo. Upon exploring the market, which is the largest and most popular Farmer’s Market on the Big Island, you will gain a new appreciation for healthy, fresh, organic foods.

Visit Kulaniapia Falls - A Top Rated Waterfall on the Big Island

Visit Hawaii’s largest, private, off-the grid waterfall for a day of swimming or paddle boarding! The waterfall is over 120 feet tall, and is one of the only waterfalls on the Big Island where swimming is permitted (when river safety conditions permit). This lush cascade is ideal for anyone looking for an awe-inspiring adventure, or a casual and relaxing swim. Kulaniapia Falls also offers a day pass, which gives you access to Kulaniapia Falls from 10am to 3pm. You will have the opportunity to explore over 40 acres, stroll through the bamboo gardens, take a farm tour, or sign up for a cooking class. Kulaniapia also offers vacation rentals at their inn, The Inn At Kulaniapia Falls, for those interested in an eco-friendly, sustainable, overnight stay!

Cooking Class at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo, Hawaii

Take a cooking class at Kulaniapia Falls, where you will create and share a plant-based lunch. Enjoy 'ono grinds, delicious food, when you use the fresh ingredients harvested right on the property to create this meal! The tour will begin with a leisurely walk through Kulaniapia’s lush, tropical gardens. This immersive experience is led by a member of the community, who is passionate about sustainable living and eating. They will help enrich your understanding and admiration for farm-to table food, and you will leave the tour feeling like a member of the farmily, and Kama’aina (child of the land)!

Waterfall Rappelling at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo, Hawaii

For all the adventurous poeple looking to add some excitement to their trip to Hilo, try Waterfall rappelling at Kulaniapia Falls! This adrenaline inducing activity is a form of rappelling, and involves descending down a steep slope, typically a rock or waterfall. By deciding how much rope to let through the rappel device with your dominant hand as you lower yourself, you are in control of your own speed.

During the Kulaniapia Falls waterfall rappelling excursion, you’ll rappel through exotic, lush terrain, and have the opportunity to experience an awe-inspiring adventure!

The excursion will be led by Kulaniapia Falls canyoneering guides, who are passionate about the secluded and unique retreat destination, and thrilled to share with tour goers what they love.

Zip Lining

End your retreat in Hilo with an unforgettable adventure! Zip lining is the ultimate way to combine excitement and sightseeing. Hilo offers plenty of zip lining excursions, with levels that range from beginner, to expert, making this activity accessible to all. The routes in which guests take provide incredible views, allowing them to thoroughly experience Hilo’s natural, lush, tropical environment. Zip lining ensures that you will be visually stimulated while your adrenaline is pumping, making it a perfect activity to do in Hilo, on the Big Island.

Hilo has incredible adventures, beaches, sightseeing, and food related activities. During your visit to this hidden gem, off-the grid destination, be sure to take advantage of all that is available to you. We recommend checking out these Hawaii activities in Hilo, for things to do, group family activities, or on a vacation. A hui hou a hui hou!

What Activities To Do In Hilo, Hawai’i