There are two options for flying to Big Island. Both airports are open-air, easy to navigate, and generally stress-free (you only need about an hour for bag check and security)! If you plan to island hop during your visit, either airport has numerous interisland flights daily.

• • Hilo International Airport (ITO)

    • Excellent location relative to the venue and our home

    • Typically more expensive than Kona

    • Fewer flight options in and out

    • Rental car options available

  • Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA)

    • ~1.5 hour drive from Hilo

    • Typically cheaper than Hilo

    • More flight options in and out

    • Some public transportation available to Hilo, but limited schedules (click here for bus schedule)

    • Rental car options available

Vacation Rentals

We generally recommend vacation rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo if you're traveling in a group, want more space, or like to cook your own meals. You’ll often find homes with ocean views, private lanais, and the Big Island feel.

• The venue is just north of Hilo, so areas like Paukaʻa, and Pāpaʻikou are ideal for day-of proximity

• Rentals tend to be more affordable south of Keaʻau (Pāhoa, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Kalapana, etc.), but beware: weekday traffic heading toward Hilo in the morning and away from Hilo in the afternoon can come to a standstill. That said, this part of the island is lush, scenic, and full of unique places to stay — just be mindful of the extra drive time.

Hotels

Hilo has a few traditional hotels, all in the same general area near Banyan Drive and the bayfront. They're close to downtown and convenient, but it's worth noting that Hilo is an older town, and many of the hotels reflect that — a little dated, a little quirky, but charming in their own way. If booking a hotel, we can help you get a kamaʻāina (local) rate! See details under each hotel for how to book for less.

• SCP Hilo Hotel

  • Use promotional code NAVINEFLEMING to book at a discounted rate!

  • Across from Reed's Bay, a popular local spot

  • Smaller, quieter, and newly renovated, with several dining options nearby

  • Good option if you want a more boutique vibe, but not for those who expect pampering/the resort experience

• The Grand Naniloa (Double Tree)

  • Two ocean view king rooms are available Oct 29th - Nov 1st for a total of $704.22 (all taxes included) per room, please reach out to Amanda to book

  •  Otherwise ~$160+/night

  • On the ocean on Banyan Drive

  • Large, and most modern hotel in Hilo, with on-site bar, restaurant, and golf course

  • Best choice for those who want full-service resort-like amenities (or Hilton points)

• Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

  • ~$150+/night

  • On the ocean on Banyan Drive

  • Mid-range, dependable, and clean, but dated decor and no-frills rooms

  • On site steakhouse and other dining options

• Hilo Reeds Bay Hotel

  • ~$110+/night

  • Basic, no-frills, older building 

  • Best for short stays or those with low expectations and just need a place to sleep

Public Transportation

Public transportation is very limited on Big Island and not reliable for event timing. The Hele-On bus is available, but don’t count on it for time-sensitive travel — routes are infrequent, and delays are common.

Uber and Lyft do operate on the island, but:

• They’re not always available, especially in rural areas or after dark

• Wait times can be long

• They’re unreliable late at night (after midnight is a gamble) or early in the morning

Rental Cars

We strongly recommend renting a car if you’re visiting from off-island. It’s the most reliable way to get around and both Hilo and Kona airports have major rental agencies. If you’re sharing lodging with others, consider renting a car as a group and carpooling to the venue to save money and parking space.

Parking at the Venue

There will be fewer than 20 parking spots available at the venue so carpooling will be much appreciated! Details to follow. 

Beaches

Hilo weather is often unpredictable, but that doesn't mean we don't get beautiful beach days! Most of our beaches are not sandy and the water can be cooler than on Kona side due to the influx of fresh water. That being said, they are a wonderful place to explore the local wildlife, with tide pools and reefs offering homes to fish, crabs, sea turtles, urchins (watch your step!), sea cucumbers, corals, shore birds and more! 

Please be respectful of our marine ecosystems! If you get in the water be careful not to step on the delicate reef! Corals are easily damaged and my break off when touched. Zinc based sunscreens are safe to use, but do not use any sunscreen that contains the following chemicals that can damage our delicate coral reef ecosystems:

• Oxybenzone

• Octinoxate

• Avobenzone

• Octocrylene

Hilo Beach Recommendations:

• Richardson's Beach Park

  • Our only black sand beach, and one of our favorites in Hilo!

  • Best snorkeling on Hilo side 

  • Your best chance to glimpse the green sea turtle (please be respectful, they are an endangered species and getting too close comes with heavy fines!)

  • Can have strong currents, follow posted warning signs 

  • Public restrooms and showers

• Carlsmith Beach Park

  • This beach is ideal for those who want to swim but are not very comfortable with strong currents 

  • Grassy 

  • Public restrooms and showers

Gardens and Parks

Hilo is surrounded by lush rainforest, and there are some beautiful gardens to stroll through in the area:

• Liliʻuokalani Gardens and Coconut Island

  • A free park near downtown, the hotels, bayfront

  • Take a stroll down Banyan Drive to see these gorgeous trees!

  • And cool off at Aliʻi Ice for a delicious popsicle!

  • We do not advise swimming off of Coconut Island. The break wall built around Hilo Bay prevents the water from being flushed out by the tides which results in questionable water quality.

• Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden 

  • $32 entrance fee

  • Open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Nestled in striking Onomea Valley (also accessible via free hiking trail), a beautiful collection of tropical plants 

Waterfalls

Hilo is surrounded by stunning waterfalls — some right in town, others worth a short drive for an easy jungle adventure. 

• Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue)

  • Just 5 minutes from downtown Hilo

  • Easily accessible viewpoint — no hike needed

  • Best viewed in the early morning when the sun creates rainbows in the mist

  • Local legend says the cave beneath the falls is home to Hina, the Hawaiian moon goddess

  • Be sure to check out the banyan trees and view at the top of the waterfall!

• ʻAkaka Falls State Park

  • A must-see waterfall about 25 minutes north of Hilo

  • Easy 0.4-mile paved loop trail through lush rainforest

  • Features two waterfalls: towering 442-foot ʻAkaka Falls and smaller Kahūnā Falls

  • $5 per person (walk-in) or $10 per car for non-residents — card-only kiosk

Markets & Shopping

Hilo has some of the best markets in Hawaiʻi — full of handmade goods, local produce, tropical flowers, and food. Even if you don’t buy anything, they’re a great way to get a feel for the town and support local artists and farmers.

• Hilo Farmers Market

  • Smaller stalls open daily, biggest market days: Wednesday & Saturday mornings

  • Local produce, tropical flowers, handmade jewelry, Hawaiian crafts, and snacks

  • Located downtown on the corner of Mamo St. & Kamehameha Ave

• Downtown Hilo

  • Hilo’s charming, walkable downtown is full of small shops, cafés, bookstores, antiques, and boutiques

  • For local fashion check out Simply Sisters (250 Kamehameha Ave)

Other Adventures

• Kaumana Caves

  • Step inside one of the island's biggest and most extensive lava tube cave systems! 

  • It is completely dark inside the caves, so bring a flashlight

  • There is a flight of steep steps to get into the cave and there is no path once inside, footing can be treacherous! 

• 
  

The best place to eat in Hilo is our house, but since we will be a little busy...

Our favorites by categories:

• Upscale dinner and cocktails - Lehua Restaurant (600 Imiloa Pl)

  • A hidden gem tucked away at the ʻImiloa Astronomy Center — local, seasonal menu with an elegant touch. Perfect for a nicer evening out.

  • Price: ~$50-75 per person

• Bayfront dinner - Hilo Bay Cafe (123 Lihiwai St)

  • Chic spot overlooing Hilo Bay offering sushi, steaks, seafood, and nice cocktails.

  • Price: ~$40–60 per person

• Thai - New Chiang Mai  (110 Kalakaua St) 

  • Classic Thai comfort food, big portions, casual atmosphere, a local favorite.

  • Price: ~$18–25 per person

• Pizza - Hilo Pizza Company (2100 Kanoelehua Ave B-11)

  • Solid 18" NY-style pizza with local twists. Great for a low-key night or takeout.

  • Price: ~$20–30 per 18" pizza

• Downton little-bit-of-everything - Pineapples (332 Keawe St)

  • Outdoor, open-air dining with a fun menu: local fish, burgers, poke, even a cocktail served in a pineapple! 

  • Often has live music.

  • Price:~$20–35 per person

• Food truck - Tabaraka (272 Waianuenue Ave)

  • Lebanese food truck with bold flavors — shawarma, falafel, kebab. Limited hours of operation.

  • Price: ~$12-20 per person

• Local grindz - Hawaiian Style Cafe (681 Manono St)

  • Big portions, classic plate lunches, loco moco, and local breakfast favorites. Come hungry!

  • Price: ~$15–25 per person

• Ramen - Tetsumen (697 Manono St)

  • Delicious and authentic — homemade broth, perfect eggs, casual vibe. Great for a rainy day.

  • Price: ~$15–22 per person

• Fancy cocktails - The Hidden Nēnē (58 Furneaux Ln)

  • Stylish speakeasy-style bar with creative cocktails and cozy ambiance. Harder to find, worth the hunt.

  • Price: ~$14–20 per drink

• Dive bar - Hilo Town Tavern (168 Keawe St)

  • Classic local dive bar with pool tables, music, and fried food. Great for a late night out with friends.

  • Price: ~$15-25 per person

• Coffee - The Sippin' Siren (88 Kanoelehua Ave)

  • The site of our first date! A cozy little cafe near the beaches. 

  • Price: ~$2-5 per cup

If you’re extending your trip, there are incredible places across the island worth the drive (or even an overnight). Big Island lives up to its name — it’s nearly twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined — so plan ahead, give yourself time, and enjoy the wildly different landscapes as you go. These are just a few suggestions of what Big Island has to offer, but .

Kona Side Beaches

The Kona coast is known for its long, sandy beaches and sunny, dry weather — a big contrast to lush, breezy Hilo. Some favorites include:

• Hapuna Beach – One of the largest white sand beaches on the island, great for sunbathing and swimming.

• Maniniʻowali (Kua Bay) – A stunning turquoise bay with soft sand and gorgeous sunsets.

• Makalawena Beach – You'll need a car with good clearance that can handle some rough road, otherwise it's a bit of a hike to get to, but a dream once you arrive.

Volcanoes National Park

Your best chance to witness an active volcano up close — and safely. Home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, the park offers walking trails through lava tubes, craters, and otherworldly landscapes. Nighttime glow from the crater (if lava is visible) is unforgettable!

This is also a great chance to see and hear some of our native birds like Hawaiʻi ʻAmakihi and ʻApapane! 

Tip: Bring layers — it gets cold at elevation!

Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world — from base to peak — and the stargazing is world-class.

Visitors can stop at the Visitor Information Station (~9,000 ft elevation) for safe viewing.

4WD required to reach the summit, and if you decide to go make sure you give yourself time to acclimate to the altitude at the visitor's center!

There are guided stargazing tours available from both Hilo and Kona.

Important: The summit is sacred to many Hawaiians. Please be respectful and read up on cultural protocols if you plan to go.

Kalapana & Puna Coast

A dramatic and rugged coastline shaped by lava flows.

Visit the Kaimū black sand beach (newly formed!) and walk the lava trail to the ocean.

Hamakua Coast

One of the most scenic drives on the island.

Stop at Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall nestled in a lush rainforest.

Visit Laupāhoehoe Point for crashing waves and local history.

Drive the Old Māmalahoa Highway for jungle canopies and tiny, tucked-away towns.

If you get all the way to Honokaʻa, stop at TEX Drive In for a fresh malasada (local style of doughnut)!

Waimea (Paniolo Country)

A cooler, grassy region in the island’s mountainous interior — home to ranch lands and Hawaiian cowboys (“paniolo”).

Great restaurants, farmers markets, and wide-open views of Kohala and Mauna Kea volcanoes.

You can catch a rodeo or cultural event if your timing is right!

Hawi & Pololū Valley

A sleepy little town at the northern tip of the island with art galleries, coffee shops, and friendly vibes.

Hike down to Pololū Valley for breathtaking views and a peaceful black sand beach, but beware, it is steep!

The road from Kapaʻau to Pololū is one of the most beautiful drives on the island.

South Point & Green Sand Beach

The southernmost point in the U.S.!

Visit the wind-swept cliffs, and if you’re up for an adventure, hike the 3 miles (or pay for a ride) to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach — one of only four green sand beaches in the world. 

Beware, there is no shade at this beach and the hike in is hot and windy!

Big Island Hiking

Big Island has some spectacular hikes through rainforest, lava fields, coastal cliffs, and alpine landscapes. If you’re up for some trail time, here are a few great options:

• Puʻu ʻŌʻō Trail

  • Location: Saddle Road / Mauna Loa side

  • A unique hike across old lava flows and through native forest.

  • About 7.5 miles round-trip (out-and-back), mostly flat but exposed to sun and wind.

  • Great place to see native birds (including some endangered species like the ʻAkiapōlāʻau), plants, and the stark beauty of the island’s interior!

  • Trailhead is easy to access from Saddle Road, with free parking, but be careful with turning off and getting onto the highway!

• Onomea Trail

  • Location: North of Hilo, near the Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden

  • A short, scenic trail through lush rainforest leading to coastal views and the iconic Onomea Bay.

  • About 1 mile round-trip; easy to moderate, but with steep sections.

  • Can be muddy after rain — bring good shoes!

  • The trail passes through old sugar plantation roads and crosses a historic footbridge.

• Kīlauea Iki Trail

  • Location: Volcanoes National Park

  • One of the most popular hikes on the island — and for good reason.

  • 4-mile loop that takes you through rainforest, then across the floor of a solidified lava lake!

  • Moderate difficulty; some elevation change with stairs.

  • You’ll walk directly over a crater that erupted in 1959.

  • Note: Requires entry fee to Volcanoes National Park.

Swim with Manta Rays (Kona)

One of the most magical experiences the island offers.

Nighttime snorkel or dive tours bring you up close with graceful manta rays as they feed under spotlights.

Departures are from Keauhou or Kailua-Kona harbors.

If you would rather watch them from the shore, Manta restaurant at the Mauna Kea Resort shines lights on the waters, and you can watch the mantas catch plankton without getting wet!