Hilo, HI Homes for Rent

Hilo, located on the east side of Hawaii's Big Island, is a town with about 45,000 residents. Known for its quieter atmosphere compared to the west coast, Hilo attracts visitors to its historic downtown and natural attractions like the Lili’uokalani Gardens and Rainbow Falls in Wailuku River State Park. The town experiences significant rainfall, contributing to its lush rainforests and gardens. Hilo’s climate is marked by gray skies and an annual rainfall of approximately 125 inches, making it the wettest city in the United States. The town's architecture includes many pre-World War II plantation-style homes with wide-hipped roofs and covered lanais, alongside newer homes built from the 1980s onward. Downtown Hilo is the hub for dining and shopping, featuring a variety of restaurants, the Hilo Farmers Market, and cultural sites like the Palace Theater. The Merrie Monarch Festival and the Hilo Orchid Society Annual Show and Sale are notable events that draw large crowds. Education in Hilo is highlighted by Waiakea High and St. Joseph School, both of which are highly rated. While Hilo Bay's funnel shape can exacerbate tsunamis, the community has implemented buffer zones and warning systems to mitigate risks. Traffic is generally light, with major roads like Hawaii Route 200 and Kamehameha Avenue being mostly free-flowing. Hilo International Airport primarily offers interisland flights, and the Hele-On Bus provides public transportation options.