Cruise Hawaii | Hilo Port Stop | Places to Visit | Travel and Cruise Tips

Hilo Cruise Port Stop | Places to Visit | Travel and Cruise Tips

Hilo is on the east coast of the big island, Hawaii. It’s known for Wailuku River State Park, featuring Waianuenue, or Rainbow Falls, with its colorful mist effects. The bubbling basalt-lava rock pools known as the Boiling Pots are nearby. To the south is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to rainforests and the active Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.

Cruise ships port at The Port of Hilo. Transportation is required to get out of the port area. A free shuttle will take passengers to the Hilo bus station just across from the Farmers Market. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the airport and pick up a rental car and venture out on your own. (10 min to airport and $17 -$20 taxi cost)

Here are some suggestions on places to see.

South of Hilo:

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm
Drive through the Macadamia nut orchards, peer into the processing plant, taste samples and learn about the farming history at the visitor center and take a few bags of nuts home with you! Restrooms available.

Volcanos National Park
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa - and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Restrooms available.

North of Hilo:

The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
The gardens attract photographers, gardeners, scientists, and nature lovers from around the world. There is over a mile of trails lined with thousands of rare and endangered flora from all parts of the globe. Experience awe-inspiring views of Onomea Bay along the beautiful Hamakua Coast.

Waipio Valley Lookout
Check out the view and historical background of Waipio Valley. Massive, smooth cliff faces show where part of the island broke off and fell into the ocean and the rolling waves from the strong incoming winds provide an excellent photo opportunity. Note: Access to the Waipio Valley Floor is currently (Oct 2024) restricted. Check the web for current closures and restrictions.

The town of Hilo

The Hilo Farmers Market has a large variety of tropical fruits and vegetables grown right in the Hawaiian Islands. As well as handmade items, clothing and more. (Bathrooms available)

Big Island Candies
Delicious shortbread cookie manufacturer hq in Hilo. Stop for samples of cookies and coffee. See the production line. Watch the chocolate dippers in action. Grab a sandwich and beverage at the at the snack counter. Most importantly stock up on cookies for you, friends and family! You won’t be disappointed. Bathrooms available.

Rainbow Falls
Stop and see the falls right in Hilo! If the sun is out you might see a rainbow! Bathrooms available.