Information about Living in Hilo

Hawaii’s biggest small town can be found at the base of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea. Hawaii's biggest visitor attraction is due south in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Nonetheless, this charming historic city rests alongside the large curved Hilo Bay. In ancient times, Hilo was famous for its rich coastal land and waterways that supported a thriving population of native Hawaiians. Because of an annual rainfall of over 70 inches, Hilo and its surrounding area is always lush and green and has even been named the wettest city in the USA. Nonetheless, residents of Hilo real estate homes or condominiums for sale find that the area’s small town feel, unique charm, and resilient attitude since the great tsunami provide a nurturing and caring environment that they enjoy calling “home.”

Hilo residents and visitors take advantage of the unique beaches located in the area, namely at the Carl Smith Beach Park, Ice Pond, James Kealoha Beach, Leleui Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach. These beaches are usually frequented by mostly tourists, but offer exceptional recreational opportunities with enough space to accommodate everyone. On the weekends, it’s not uncommon to see four or five separate parties and barbeques being held at each park.

Local Hilo attractions include the Hilo Farmer’s Market, Hilo Art Galleries, Palace Theater, Pacific Tsunami Museum, East Hawaii Cultural Center, Lyman Museum and House, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, Mokupapapa Discovery Center, and Richardson Ocean Center. Most importantly, the state’s most noted festival, the Merrie Monarch Festival, a hula competition, is held in Hilo every year.