During our 17-day cruise to Hawaii from San Diego aboard the Holland America Zaandam, we made a memorable stop in Hilo, Hawaii. Instead of booking a ship excursion, we decided to explore Hilo on our own. This is where we came up with Exploring Hilo as a DIY Day tour! In just a few hours, we managed to see a lot, walk at our own pace, and spend only $4 USD. This blog highlights our DIY adventure and provides ideas for other visitors who want to experience Hilo without spending much money.
Arrival at Hilo Cruise Port
When we arrived at the Hilo Port, we were greeted by friendly terminal staff who reminded us to bring our original photo ID and cruise card to reboard the ship. This is an important detail for any cruiser to remember. There were several warnings and reminders posted throughout the terminal to ensure a smooth reboarding process.
Inside the terminal, we noticed various vendors offering local tours to popular destinations like the volcano, botanical gardens, waterfalls, zoo, and lava caves. While these tours sounded tempting, we were eager to explore on foot and experience the town at our own pace.
A DIY Tour to Hilo: A Few Sights Along The Way
We started our adventure with a two-mile walk from the port toward Hilo. Yes, we could have taken the FREE Shuttle instead of walking, but we didn't want to miss some of the additional details that our walk provided.
Walking to Hilo:
Our first stop was the Wailoa River State Recreation Area, a large park with lush greenery, walking paths, and scenic views of the river. We had noted that there was also a cruise excursion that included this park.
From Hilo Port to Wailoa River State Recreation Area
Points of Interest in the Park:
Vietnam War Memorial and Korean War Memorial: These solemn monuments honor the service and sacrifice of local soldiers who fought in these wars. The memorials are beautifully maintained and provide a peaceful place for reflection.
King Kamehameha the Great Statue: This impressive statue pays tribute to King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810. The statue in Hilo is one of several across Hawaii and is a significant cultural landmark.
Wailoa Art Center: The Wailoa Art Center hosts rotating exhibits of local art, showcasing the talent and creativity of Hawaiian artists. Admission is free, making it a great stop for art enthusiasts.
Hilo Farmers Market
Next, we visited the Hilo Farmers Market, one of the most popular attractions in town. The market operates daily, but the busiest days are Wednesday and Saturday. It’s a bustling hub of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
We spent time browsing through the stalls, marveling at the variety of fresh tropical fruits, homemade treats, and unique handcrafted items. The market is a great place to pick up a souvenir or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Mokupāpapa Discovery Center
A highlight of our trip was the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center, a fascinating museum dedicated to the marine life and ecosystems of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Admission is free, and the center offers interactive exhibits, including a beautiful aquarium showcasing native fish species.
We learned about the importance of conservation and the cultural significance of these remote islands. The staff at the center were knowledgeable and passionate, making this a must-visit for anyone interested in Hawaii’s natural history.
From Hilo Port to Mokupāpapa Discovery Center
Coconut Point Lighthouse
After visiting the discovery center, we walked to the Coconut Point Lighthouse. Although small, the lighthouse is a charming landmark that offers a glimpse into Hilo’s maritime history. It’s a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy views of the ocean.
Exploring Old Town Hilo
We wandered through the streets of Old Town Hilo, where historic buildings house an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The architecture reflects Hilo’s rich history and gives the town a unique charm.
We took our time browsing through the local stores, each offering something different — from Hawaiian crafts and clothing to vintage items and books.
by Bus
To wrap up our day, we hopped on a local city bus to Keaukaha Beach Park. The bus ride itself was an experience, as we got to see more of Hilo and interact with friendly locals.
Keaukaha Beach Park is a beautiful spot known for its tide pools and clear waters. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and picnicking. Although we didn’t have time to snorkel, we enjoyed walking along the beach and taking in the stunning views.
The bus ride cost us only $2 USD each way, making it an affordable and convenient way to explore beyond the town center. Because we were on the bus, we got to see a lot of the town, and even drove through the airport. It was a neat way to see more, without breaking the budget.
From Hilo Port to Keaukaha Beach Park
Why We Love Exploring on Our Own
Our DIY excursion in Hilo was a perfect example of how you can explore a destination without breaking the bank. Walking gave us the opportunity to see more, get some exercise, and immerse ourselves in the local culture. Taking the city bus was an easy and cost-effective way to venture further afield.
For travelers looking to make the most of their time in Hilo, we recommend:
Starting with a walk through the Wailoa River State Recreation Area.
Visiting the Hilo Farmers Market for a taste of local life.
Exploring cultural sites like the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center and King Kamehameha statue.
Taking the city bus to Keaukaha Beach Park for a relaxing end to your day.
Interesting Facts About Hilo
Hilo is the largest town on the Big Island of Hawaii and serves as its main hub.
It’s known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning coastline.
Hilo is home to Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano, and Mauna Kea, the tallest sea mountain in the world.
The town has a rich cultural history, with deep roots in Hawaiian traditions and customs.
Hilo Farmers Market is considered one of the best farmers markets in Hawaii.
Here are some emergency contacts in Hilo, Hawaii
911: Call 911 for emergencies such as fires, medical issues, police, or life-threatening situations. You can also text 911 if you can't make a voice call.
American Red Cross: Call (808) 935-8305 for emergency communications.
Hawai'i Emergency Management Agency: Call (808) 733-4300.
Final Thoughts
Our day in Hilo was a wonderful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty — all for just $4 USD. This blog highlights what can be done in a few hours without spending much money. We loved the freedom of exploring at our own pace and discovering hidden gems along the way.
Whether you’re visiting Hilo on a cruise or staying on the island, there are plenty of affordable and enjoyable activities to fill your day. We hope this blog inspires others to create their own adventure in Hilo and experience the beauty of Hawaii beyond the typical tourist spots.
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