Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Although Hilo is Hawaii's second largest city, it retains the quaint charm of its historic roots as a sugar town, dating back to the turn of the century. Located on the eastern shore of the Big Island, under the shadow of the snowcapped Mauna Kea volcano, Hilo is a lush tropical oasis that offers the visitor many opportunities for fun and adventure.
There are more than 30 restaurants in downtown Hilo and dozens of unique shops feature vintage island treasures, local crafts, and artwork. At the famous Hilo Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can find tropical fruits, flowers, and more.
Interested in arts and culture? The Lyman Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Hawaii and features collections of artwork by Hawaii's artists as well as ancient art of China, and minerals and seashells from around the world. Also on site is an 1839 historical missionary home and many community programs and special events are held each year.
For a unique educational and cultural experience, the Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long cultural event held annually beginning on Easter Sunday. This prestigious Hula competition bears the nickname of Hawaii's last king; David Kalakaua, whose seventeen year reign saw a joyful resurgence in Hawaiian culture, including public Hula dances performed in defiance of oppressive missionary rules.
On April 1, 1946, and May 23, 1960, Hilo experienced devastating tsunamis that had a profound effect on the social and economic structure of the community. For a perspective on this deadly big wave phenomenon, visit the Pacific Tsunami Museum. Dedicated to promoting public tsunami education, the museum serves as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in past tsunami events and features survivor's stories and exhibits that interpret the cause and effects of tsunamis.
Located three miles from Hilo, Nani Mau Gardens showcases 53 acres of gorgeous tropical flowers and plants including a spectacular orchid garden, rare palms and tropical fruit orchards. "Nani Mau" translates as "forever beautiful" and is a favorite of both visitors and residents alike. Nani Mau's self-guided tour or narrated 30 minute tram tour provides visitors with Hawaiian history and culture focusing on the traditional use of various tropical flowers and plants. Guests can also enjoy a delicious Island Buffet lunch at the garden restaurant, visit the gift shop featuring exclusive gifts and souvenirs, and enjoy pampering at Nani Mau Salon & Spa.
Nature enthusiasts will not want to miss glorious Akaka Falls State Park, featuring moderately challenging hiking trails to two spectacular waterfalls. Kahuna Falls drops 400 feet and Akaka Falls tumbles 420 feet into a crystal clear pool drained by Kolekole Stream. Admission to the park is free and it is open year round.
Drive, walk, or bike the Scenic Banyan Drive, which loops around Hilo Bay's Waiakea Peninsula. The giant Banyan trees that line the street were planted in the early 1900s by visiting celebrities and each is marked with plaques with such famous names as Amelia Earhart, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Cecil B. deMille, Louis Armstrong, Babe Ruth, and King George V.
Pana'ewa Rain Forest Zoo is the only zoo in the United States that is situated in a tropical rain forest. This beautiful 12 acre zoo is filled with more than 80 animal species including the endangered Nene (Hawaii State Bird) and a white Bengal Tiger.
No trip to Hawaii would be complete without a foray into the warm clear water of the Pacific Ocean. The seawall at Leleiwi Beach Park provides a good place to enter the water for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, net fishing, and bodysurfing. The park has covered picnic pavilions and paved walkways, and is home to the Richardson Ocean Center, a free interpretive and recreation center containing marine life displays.
If you want to explore the waters off the coast of Hilo, you can scuba or snorkel unspoiled reefs where you'll see dolphins and turtles. Or charter a boat for deep water diving and a chance to see migrating Humback whales.
For those who prefer to recreate on land, Hilo Municipal Golf Course offers scenic views of Hilo Bay in a lush setting. Established in 1950, this public 18 hole golf course was designed by Willard Wilkenson and contains a restaurant, lounge, snack bar, pro shop, driving range, and practice green.
Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, sunny beaches or dense tropical jungles, dining, shopping, or educational opportunities, Hilo is the perfect place for your dream vacation.
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