Hilo Guide

Historic Downtown Hilo Walks: Explore Hawaii's Past

Discover the charm and history of Hilo's vibrant downtown district on foot with guided walking tours that bring the Big Island's past to life.

12+ tours
From $$30
1.5-3 hours

Hilo, on Hawaii Island's lush eastern side, possesses a downtown district that whispers tales of a bygone era. Unlike the bustling resort towns, historic downtown Hilo offers a glimpse into a more authentic Hawaii, a place where local life and rich history intertwine. Here, historic buildings stand as silent witnesses to the island's past – from its days as a thriving sugarcane port to its resilience in the face of natural challenges. These structures, often adorned with distinctive architectural details, line streets that have witnessed generations of islanders and visitors alike. Exploring this area on foot is the most intimate way to connect with its stories, to feel the pulse of the community, and to understand the cultural bedrock of this unique corner of the Big Island. These walking tours are designed to peel back the layers of time, revealing the narratives embedded within the very fabric of Hilo's downtown.

Featured Historic Downtown Hilo Walks Tours

Discover our top picks for historic downtown hilo walks in Hilo

Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls
From $159
Free Cancellation

Cruise Ship Guests: We have special permits to pick up directly from Hilo port of call. Departure times may be adjusted to fit your ships arrival & departure. Hilo Hotel Guests: Meeting location is Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Tour grade: Easy Highlights of this tour include Black Sand Beach, Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Japanese Garden, Drive through Down Town Hilo, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm Volcanoes National Park - Steam Vents, Sulfur Banks Thurston Lava Tube, Kilauea Visitor Center & Exhibits Kilauea Crater lookout. The visitor center in National Park is currently closed for renovation. Lunch: Stop will be made by a local vendor

4.7(2,239)
6h
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Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcano Safari Lava Caves & Black Sand
From $154
Free Cancellation

Approx 6 hr long. Explore the places less traveled among Hawaii's back roads of Kilauea volcano. Explore exciting Lava Caves and Lava trees in a lush volcanic rainforest. See the 2018 lava destruction and the newly formed Black Sand Beach just created. A truly amazing experience! Cruise Ship Guests: We have special permits to pick up directly from Hilo port of call. Departure times may be adjusted to fit your ship's arrival & departure. Hilo Hotel Guests: Meeting location Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

4.7(346)
6h
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Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens
From $187.95
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

A day trip to Hilo is not complete without a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to one of the world's most active volcanoes.  Witness the current volcanic eruption at the summit of Kilauea volcano, learn of past geologic events and the effects on this ever changing landscape. Feel the heat of steam vents, then traverse an ancient lava tube nestled in the cool mist of the Hawaiian rainforest.  Conclude your day indulging your senses around Hilo town including the majestic Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens, and tasty locally made chocolates and coffee on this small group tour.

4.9(381)
5h 30m
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Volcano National Park and Rainbow Fall in Hilo, Hawaii
From $175
Free Cancellation

Experience the best of Hilo and Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on this unforgettable tour. Pass by the serene Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the largest Edo-style Japanese garden outside of Japan, then take in the scenic coastline at Hilo Bayfront Beach Park. Enjoy the historic charm of Downtown Hilo, where plantation-era buildings and vibrant storefronts line the streets. Witness the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, cascading 80 feet into a lava cave steeped in Hawaiian legend. Treat yourself to handcrafted chocolates and macadamia nut cookies at Big Island Candies. Finally, explore the dramatic landscapes of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, home to the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea. Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, feel the heat from geothermal steam vents, and journey along Chain of Craters Road, surrounded by vast fields of hardened lava. This tour is the perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure!

4.7(47)
6h
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Big island Hilo Day Tour- Volcano,LavaTube,Waterfall,Beach&Lunch
From $189
Free Cancellation

Join us for a half-day adventure tour exploring the Big Island from summit to sea. We offer a unique tour including hands-on artifacts, fresh fruit, historical insights, and the significance of the places we visit. We'll take you on an unforgettable journey through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the world's most active volcano, Kilauea. You'll travel from the visitor center to Kilauea crater for panoramic views of the smoking caldera and steaming volcanic vents, and walk inside iconic Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube). For lunch, enjoy an island-inspired meal on us at a local restaurant. Later, we'll visit Punaluʻu black sand beach (The Most Famous Black Sand Beach on the Big Island ) and discover the picture-perfect scenery of Rainbow Falls in Hilo. Please note: We provide pick-up & drop-off in the Hilo area only. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and includes moderate walking, including climbing roughly 15 stairs during the lava tube tour.

4.9(85)
6h
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Hilo Shore Excursion: Visit Volcano, Waterfall, Beach with Lunch
From $189
Free Cancellation

Make the most of your shore visit with our half-day adventure tour exploring the Big Island from summit to sea. We offer a unique tour including hands-on artifacts, fresh fruit, historical insights, and the significance of the places we visit. We'll take you on an unforgettable journey through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the world's most active volcano, Kilauea. You'll travel from the visitor center to Kilauea crater for panoramic views of the smoking caldera and steaming volcanic vents, and walk inside iconic Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube). For lunch, enjoy an island-inspired meal on us at a local restaurant. Later we'll visit (The Most Famous Black Sand Beach on the Big Island)Punaluʻu black sand beach and discover the picture-perfect scenery of Rainbow Falls in Hilo. Please note: We offer pick-up & drop-off in the Hilo area only. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and includes moderate walking, including climbing roughly 15 stairs during the lava tube tour.

5.0(77)
6h
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2-Hour Hilo Ghost Walks Tour
From $59
Free Cancellation

The New Orleans of the Pacific, Hilo is a colorful, historic mural-filled town, home to music, ghosts, and magic. The scene of devastating tsunamis and the wandering spirits they leave in their wake, Hilo's crescent-shaped bay also saw the launch of King Kamehameha's 800 war canoes in his quest to unite the major Hawaiian Islands. The annual Merrie Monarch Festival stirs the ancestors and is ground zero for curses dealt by rival hula dancers. Discover the local history of unique paranormal activity including contemporary stories of encounters with Hawaiian deities such as the fiery goddess of the volcanoes, Pele, and Mo'oinanea, the queen of the mo'o, fierce local guardians, who are half-human and half-dragon. This tropical destination is prone to rain, so each guest receives a complimentary rain poncho on request.

4.4(11)
2h
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Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour
From $202.76
Free Cancellation

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Volcano Adventure tour on Hawaii's "Big Island," focusing on the lush, northeastern Hilo side. Explore the dynamic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to active volcanoes and historic craters. Delight in the charming vistas of Hilo Town. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will enrich your journey with tales of the area's legends, history, and culture, highlighting scenic wonders throughout the tour. Note: This tour is available with hotel pickups exclusively in the Hilo area (Not Kona).

4.7(408)
10h 30m
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Hilo History and Legends (APP) Audio Self Guided Walking Tour
From $6.5
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Go at your own pace, on your own schedule and on your own terms. It's like a real life tour guide, only it's on your phone, way more convenient and a better story teller. The tour never expires. You can take it as many times as you want. And after taking the on location tour you'll unlock a virtual tour you can listen to anytime. Did you ever think "What did the tour guide say?" With our WalknTours app you can listen anytime and keep the stories forever. You'll see the historic spots in Hilo, learn about immigration, food, Kapu, Legends, the kings, the Portuguese, the Japanese, Native Hawaii, the Hilo Market, Tsunami's, the Ocean and so much more.

3.0(1)
55 min
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Historic Hilo Bay and Coconut Island Guided Kayak Adventure
From $160
Free Cancellation

Experience the history and natural beauty of old Hawaii, unlike anywhere else in the islands, as you will soon discover Hilo Bay captures the feeling of going back in time. Hilo Bay is a large bay located on the eastern coast of the island of Hawaii. The modern town of Hilo overlooks Hilo Bay and located north of the bay runs the Hamakua Coast on the slopes of Mauna Kea and south of the bay is the Puna district on the slopes of Mauna Loa. As you paddle, you will be surrounded with the majestic snow-capped peaks of Mauna Kea crater in the distance. Your experienced guide will share with you the history of the last Hawaiian monarch at Queen Liliuokalani Japanese Gardens as you make your way to Coconut Island. Coconut Island or Moku Ola, is a small island in Hilo Bay, just offshore from Lili’uokalani Park and Gardens.

4.4(27)
2h
View Details
Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour - Hilo Shore Excursion
From $195.99

Waterfall & Volcano Adventure Tour. This tour will take you to all the tourist attraction in or near Hilo. Let this local operator make your day full of joyful memories. Volcanoes eruptions will amaze you with it's size and active volcanic eruptions. The lava flow area includes 323,431 acres of land. Over half of the park is designated the Hawaii Volcanoes Wilderness area. The park encompasses diverse environments that range from sea level to the summit of the Earth's most massive active volcano.

4.4(104)
7h
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Best of Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfall, Blacksand Beach & Lunch
From $185
Free CancellationNew

If your time is limited and you want to see the best of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, this tour is for you! Join us to explore some of our island's must-see places. Our tour is a unique experience including old artifacts, historical insights, and the cultural significance of the places we visit. We'll take you through Downtown Hilo to see the picture-perfect scenery of Rainbow Falls, followed by an unforgettable trip through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You'll meet the world's most active volcano, Kīlauea, visit steaming volcanic vents, and walk inside an ancient lava tube. Enjoy an island-inspired lunch on us at a local restaurant. Later, we'll show you Punaluʻu black sand beach—a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and frequently visited by sea turtles. PLEASE NOTE: We provide pick-up and drop-off in the Hilo area only. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and includes moderate walking, including climbing roughly 15 stairs during the lava tube tour.

4.9(14)
6h
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Port of Hilo to Volcano Tour
From $229
Free Cancellation

In a small intimate group of 11 or less Your driver will be prompt at picking you up. Learn the history and culture of Hawaii Island with myths and legends of rainbow falls. Take a walk in the past and Engage with the Hawaiian culture through your guide who can answer all your Hawaiian questions in and out of the volcanoes national park.

5.0(26)
4h
View Details
Private Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Minivan Tour
From $1,999
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Experience the best of Hilo and Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on this unforgettable tour. Pass by the serene Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the largest Edo-style Japanese garden outside of Japan, then take in the scenic coastline at Hilo Bayfront Beach Park. Enjoy the historic charm of Downtown Hilo, where plantation-era buildings and vibrant storefronts line the streets. Witness the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, cascading 80 feet into a lava cave steeped in Hawaiian legend. Treat yourself to handcrafted chocolates and macadamia nut cookies at Big Island Candies. Finally, explore the dramatic landscapes of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, home to the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea. Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, feel the heat from geothermal steam vents, and journey along Chain of Craters Road, surrounded by vast fields of hardened lava. This tour is the perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure!

6h
View Details

Ready to Explore Hilo?

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Why Choose Historic Downtown Hilo Walks in Hilo?

Immersive Local Experience

Gain a deeper understanding of Hilo's cultural heritage and local way of life, away from the typical tourist crowds.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the charm of historic architecture, local art installations, and the scenic coastal views that define downtown Hilo.

Fascinating Historical Narratives

Learn about Hilo's rich past, including its volcanic history, significant events, and the evolution of its unique community.

Discover Local Businesses

Tours often highlight local shops, galleries, and eateries, encouraging support for the downtown community.

Walkable and Accessible

Downtown Hilo is best explored on foot, allowing for leisurely strolls and stops at your own pace.

Expert Local Guides

Benefit from the knowledge and insights of guides who are passionate about Hilo and its history.

Types of Historic Downtown Hilo Walks in Hilo

General Historic Downtown Walks

These comprehensive tours provide an overview of Hilo's downtown core, covering key historical landmarks, architectural styles, and significant events. They are ideal for first-time visitors seeking a foundational understanding of the area's past.

Covers main street historic buildingsHighlights architectural detailsDiscusses Hilo's port historySuitable for all agesOften includes local lore

Photography Focused Walks

Designed for those who love to capture the beauty of their travels, these tours guide you to the most photogenic spots in downtown Hilo. Guides will point out unique angles, lighting opportunities, and subjects that showcase the district's character.

Focus on visually appealing architectureTips for capturing local scenesVisits to street art and muralsMay include specific time of day for best lightSmaller group sizes

Culinary and Cultural Explorations

These tours blend history with local flavors. Participants will learn about Hilo's culinary traditions, discover local ingredients, and often have the opportunity to sample local treats or visit unique food establishments within the historic district.

Introduction to local Hawaiian cuisineVisits to historic eateries or marketsDiscussion of local food productionMay include tasting opportunitiesFocus on cultural significance of food

What to Expect on Historic Downtown Hilo Walks Tours

Duration

Most historic downtown Hilo walking tours range from 1.5 to 3 hours in length, providing ample time to explore and learn without feeling rushed.

Weather

Hilo is known for its tropical climate and frequent rainfall. Tours typically proceed rain or shine, so be prepared for warm, humid conditions and potential showers. Lightweight rain gear is advisable.

Group Size

Group sizes vary, but many tours aim for smaller numbers (often 8-15 people) to ensure a more personal and interactive experience. Some private or custom options may also be available.

What's Included

Typically, tours include the services of a knowledgeable local guide. Some may offer light refreshments, tasting opportunities, or entrance fees to specific small sites. It's always best to check the specific tour details for inclusions.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually clearly defined and centrally located within the historic downtown area, often near prominent landmarks or accessible public spaces. Detailed instructions will be provided upon booking.

Costs

Prices generally range from $30 to $75 USD per person, depending on the duration, inclusions, and any specific experiences offered by the tour operator.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Wear comfortable walking shoes – you'll be on your feet for a good portion of the tour.

2

Bring a reusable water bottle, as staying hydrated is key in Hilo's tropical climate.

3

Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days.

4

Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella, as Hilo is one of the rainiest cities in the U.S.

5

Be prepared to engage with your guide; they are a fantastic source of local knowledge and personal insights.

6

Check the weather forecast before your tour, but always err on the side of caution with rain gear.

7

Consider booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred tour and time.

8

Leave some time after your tour to explore shops or cafes that caught your eye.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Are historic downtown Hilo walks suitable for children?

A: Generally, yes. Most general historic walking tours are family-friendly. However, if the tour focuses heavily on dense historical detail or involves very long periods of standing, it might be less engaging for very young children. Always check the specific tour's age recommendations.

Q:What if it rains during my walking tour?

A: Hilo experiences rain frequently. Tours typically run rain or shine. Guides are usually adept at navigating the weather, and many historic buildings offer shelter. It's best to come prepared with rain gear and a positive attitude.

Q:Can I take photos during the tour?

A: Absolutely! Guides often encourage photography and may even point out great photo opportunities. Photography-focused tours are specifically designed for this purpose.

Q:What kind of historical periods does downtown Hilo walking tours cover?

A: These tours typically delve into Hilo's history from its early days as a plantation and port town through its development in the 20th century, often touching on its resilience after volcanic events and tsunamis that have shaped the city.

Q:Do I need to tip my guide?

A: Tipping is customary for tour guides in Hawaii if you enjoyed their service. A gratuity of 10-20% of the tour price is generally appreciated for excellent guiding.

Q:What if I have mobility issues?

A: Downtown Hilo is relatively flat, but sidewalks can be uneven. If you have significant mobility concerns, it's best to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss the route and any potential challenges. Some private tours might be customizable.

Q:Are there restrooms available during the tour?

A: Guides are usually familiar with public restrooms in the downtown area and will point them out if needed. Frequent stops at shops or cafes can also provide restroom access.

Q:Can I join a tour without booking in advance?

A: While some last-minute availability might exist, it's highly recommended to book your historic downtown Hilo walking tour in advance. This guarantees your spot, especially for popular tours or during busy periods, and ensures the tour operator can plan accordingly.

Don't Miss the Perfect Hilo Experience

Book your historic downtown hilo walks today - 12+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Hilo?

Experience the raw, untamed beauty of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a truly unique natural wonder.

Discover Hilo's lush botanical gardens, showcasing the vibrant flora of the Big Island's wettest side.

Explore the charming historic downtown Hilo, offering a glimpse into its rich plantation past.

Immerse yourself in authentic Hawaiian culture at local festivals and traditional hula performances.

Enjoy the laid-back pace and genuine aloha spirit found only in this East Hawaii gem.

Witness the powerful force of nature with dramatic waterfalls and stunning coastal scenery.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Hilo experiences a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it's consistently warm and humid year-round, with frequent rainfall. Expect daily showers, particularly in the afternoons, which contribute to its incredible lushness. Temperatures are generally mild, rarely dipping too low or becoming excessively hot.

Best Months

The drier months, typically from April to October, offer slightly less rain, making them ideal for outdoor exploration. However, Hilo's beauty shines year-round, so don't let the rain deter you.

Peak Season

The peak tourist season generally aligns with major holidays and summer breaks, from mid-December to April and again from June to August. Expect larger crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices during these times.

Off Season

The shoulder seasons, including May, September, and October, usually offer fewer crowds and potentially better deals on accommodations. The weather remains warm, and the island's natural beauty is just as stunning.

Plan Your Hilo Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Hilo is easiest with a rental car, offering the most flexibility to explore the surrounding natural attractions like waterfalls and volcanoes. Public transportation exists via Hele-On Bus, a convenient and affordable option for getting around Hilo and to key points. However, for venturing further afield or accessing more remote spots, having your own vehicle is recommended. Ride-sharing services are available but can be less frequent than in larger cities. Walking is feasible within the compact downtown Hilo area.

Car Rental Deals in Hilo

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Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Hilo adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Hilo

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