Hotels in Hilo

Discover Hilo: Where Volcanoes Embrace Paradise and Waterfalls Whisper Secrets

Nestled on the lush eastern coast of the Big Island, Hilo, Hawaii, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich culture. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, including the stunning Akaka Falls, and the majestic Rainbow Falls, Hilo enchants visitors with its vibrant gardens and lush rainforests. Stroll through the charming downtown, where local artisans and farmers’ markets showcase Hawaiian culture. Explore the nearby Volcanoes National Park, home to the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea. With its unspoiled landscapes and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Hilo is the perfect off-the-beaten-path escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. For our best hotel rates in Hilo and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Hilo

Some of the best places to stay in Hilo are Keaau, Mountain View and Honomu. Keaau, Mountain View, and Honomu are fantastic spots for travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty and authentic Hawaiian culture. Keaau offers convenient access to Hilo and local attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Mountain View boasts lush surroundings and a tranquil atmosphere, while Honomu features charming shops and stunning waterfalls nearby. Accommodation options vary from cozy inns to charming bed-and-breakfasts, providing a range of choices for comfort and budget. Enjoy the unique experiences each area has to offer! These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Hilo:

1. KeaauOpens in a new window: Keaau is a vibrant area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions like the University of Hawaii at Hilo and Ha'ena Beach. It offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for diverse travellers. In Keaau, consider staying at Ala Kai Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast known for adventure sports and recreation activities onsite or nearby. Another option is Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that provides direct access to the beach along with business amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both leisure and business travellers. Additionally, SCP Hilo HotelOpens in a new window offers similar beach access and adventure opportunities, catering to those looking for both business and adventure experiences.
2. Mountain ViewOpens in a new window: Mountain View is an outdoor paradise, home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the scenic Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden. This area is great for families, couples, and those looking to explore nature. In Mountain View, you can stay at Fern Forest GetawayOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star Bed & Breakfast that welcomes pets and offers business amenities. Alternatively, Volcano Acres Ranch B&BOpens in a new window provides free daily breakfast and nearby hiking opportunities, while Volcano Eco Retreat by Heart Core Hotels - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast that also caters to pet owners, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
3. HonomuOpens in a new window: Honomu is known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring attractions like Akaka Falls and the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. This area offers a mix of adventure and romance, making it ideal for nature lovers. In Honomu, check out Hilo Bay Oceanfront B&BOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star Bed & Breakfast that serves breakfast and provides access to nearby snorkeling activities. For a more natural experience, Mahana House Country InnOpens in a new window focuses on wellness and outdoor amenities, while The Inn at Kulaniapia FallsOpens in a new window offers a unique boutique experience with adventure sports and beautifully designed spaces.

Things to do in Hilo for first times

Three days in Hilo offers travellers a captivating blend of lush landscapes, from stunning waterfalls and verdant forests to expansive beaches and majestic mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and diving, alongside local shopping and guided tours, making it a memorable destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hilo:

• Day 1: Begin your Hilo adventure at Carlsmith Beach Park, where you can unwind on the sandy shores and enjoy the calm waters—perfect for swimming and picnicking. Next, head over to Keaukaha Beach Park, a beautiful spot for beachcombing and soaking up the sun. Finally, make your way to Coconut Island Park, a small island connected by a bridge, where you can explore lush landscapes and relax while taking in stunning views of Hilo Bay. This day is perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Day 2: Start your day at the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, where the cascading water creates a stunning spectacle, especially after rainfall. After taking in the natural beauty, venture to Kaumana Springs Wilderness, where you can explore lush trails and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural springs. Conclude your day at Gilbert Carvalho Park, a local gem featuring playgrounds and picnic areas—ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Onekahakaha Beach Park, a family-friendly spot known for its gentle waves and ideal swimming conditions. After some fun in the sun, head to Richardson's Ocean Park, famous for its black sand beaches and opportunities to spot sea turtles. Wrap up your Hilo experience with a visit to Kaumana Caves Park, where you can venture into lava tubes formed by volcanic activity, offering a unique glimpse into the island's geological history.

4 tips to find a great Hilo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Hilo is between September and November, when hotel rates are generally lower. For domestic travellers, it's advisable to book flights at least one month in advance to secure more budget-friendly prices. International travellers should aim to book at least three months ahead for the best deals. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the great value for money offered by Hilo’s main attractions, including its stunning waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful gardens. This makes it an excellent destination for those looking to explore while on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Hilo, consider checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To ensure you stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, you might want to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to seize any opportunities to save on your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel costs in Hilo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account, as staying closer to major attractions or city centres may offer convenience but usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Hilo

Hilo experiences its lowest average temperature in March, at 68.0°F (20.0°C), while September and October are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). December is usually the wettest month. January, March, and April are the peak travel months in Hilo, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, August, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.