Hilo is the largest settlement in the state outside of O’ahu, with about 45,000 residents. On the east side of the Big Island, this town gets fewer tourists than the west coast, but hospitality is still the main industry. “It’s much smaller than the Kohala side, more of a hometown feel and not as commercialized. We get tourist traffic from Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, but it’s quieter,” says Lisa Heaviside with Hawaii Life, a Hilo resident and a Realtor since 2003. “We don’t have huge resorts, but we have some bayfront hotels. We don’t have the white, big, beautiful beaches, but we have a bunch of historic 1920s buildings downtown.” Hilo Bay and the Pacific Ocean line the town’s north side, closest to downtown; rainforests and volcanoes rise into the western hills.
Richardson Ocean Park is popular for picnics and snorkeling.
Visitors to Downtown Hilo will see many colorful murals adorning the walls of businesses.
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East coast rain leads to greenery: Japanese gardens, lush rainforests
Hilo’s climate has something not typically associated with Hawaii: gray skies. Trade winds blow in from the northeast and carry up to Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, forming clouds that typically release in the afternoon. Because of this phenomenon, Hilo is the wettest city in the United States with roughly 125 inches of annual rain. March, April and May are the rainiest and cloudiest months. “Most people here love the rain because it’s nice and green and makes everything much less expensive,” Heaviside says.
Rain is also the reason for the area’s lush forests, gardens and waterfalls. The ultra-green bayfront has the Lili’nokalaui Gardens, a 25-acre Japanese garden dedicated in 1917, and Hilo Bayfront Beach Park. On the city’s north side, Wailuku River State Park is popular with tourists for its Rainbow Falls; mist from this 80-foot cascade forms a rainbow most mornings. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens is on the city’s south side, and it’s the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the country. It’s home to 80-plus species, including Bengal tigers and free-roam peacocks. Hilo Forest Reserve, Waiakea Forest Reserve and other remote areas are west of the zoo, leading up to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and the summit of Mauna Loa. This “Long Mountain” is the largest active volcano on the planet and covers about half of the island’s land mass.
This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful escape into the beauty of Hawaii's natural landscape.
Visitors enjoy lush tropical scenery at Wailuku River State Park.
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Regional staples, shopping and dining in Downtown Hilo
Hilo cuisine is a melting pot, similar to other parts of the Big Island and Hawaii overall. What’s different here, though, is the regional specialties. Spam musubi is one example, a sushi alteration with grilled spam, sticky rice and seaweed. Butter mochi is another staple, a sweet rice-based cake with a custard texture. Papayas also find their way into the Hilenian diet, as this eastern side of the island produces about 95% of the state’s supply. Strawberry papayas, an orange variation only found in Hawaii, are especially desirable in summer, but they’re available year-round.
Downtown Hilo is on the city’s north side, but it’s the center of the city’s food scene. Restaurants range from Thai to Mexican, and the Hilo Farmers Market has locally grown papayas, coffee and other items every day. This district also has boutiques, art galleries, bookstores and museums, and tourists often roam its walkable streets. The Palace Theater is a 1925-built theater here with French ceilings and a neon sign out front; it plays art house movies and hosts concerts, plays and dances.
The Farmers Market Kitchen opens at 10 a.m. and serves shave ice and poke.
Quaint bakeries and dessert spots offer delightful sweet treats.
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Longstanding events: Merrie Monarch Festival, Hilo Orchid Show
The Merrie Monarch Festival started in 1964, and it celebrates Hawaiian culture and art for an entire week. While it includes a parade and craft show, it’s most known for its hula competition — the largest one in the world with thousands of attendees. Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium, about a half mile from Hilo Bay, hosts these dancers in March or April. Then it fills with orchids in July. The Hilo Orchid Society Annual Show and Sale is the largest orchid show in the state, and it also includes lectures, demonstrations and food.
Artisans showcase handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and tie-dye clothing unique to Hawaii.
The Hilo Farmers Market is located on the corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Ave., in historic Downtown Hilo.
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Tsunamis in Hilo Bay and crime levels in Hawai’i
Hilo Bay can worsen the effects of tsunamis, as its funnel shape causes large waves and inland surges. The last major tsunamis happened in 1946, 1960 and 1975, and they were all caused by earthquakes above a 7 magnitude. They caused over 200 deaths combined, and entire towns were washed away. The Pacific Tsunami Museum, filled with century-old banyan trees, serves as a monument to those who died. The community has instituted buffer zones and a new warning system as a result of these incidents, and no one was injured in the most recent tsunami in 2010.
While no crime data is available for Hilo specifically, the Hawaii Police Department reports numbers for the entire island. It had a monthly average of 125 violent offenses per 100,000 residents in 2021. That’s higher than state and national rates. It also had a monthly average of 169 property offenses per 100,000 residents in the same year. That’s lower than state levels and higher than national ones.
Lanais and hipped roofs, some bayfront views
After the tsunamis, few developers wanted to build in Hilo. That’s why much of its architecture comes from the pre-World War II era and why the plantation-style home — a single-story structure with a wide-hipped roof and covered lanai — is still around today. Older homes cluster near Downtown Hilo, and they typically need renovations. Developers resumed building in the 1980s and onward, though, so newer homes are scattered throughout town. Westernmost, elevated homes have lots that slope, whereas easternmost ones might have views of the bayfront. This shoreline also has some multistory condos, but they’re fewer and stockier than Honolulu’s iconic high-rises. The median sale price for Hilo is around $500,000, aligning with neighboring Kea’au and Papaikou. That’s about half the price of some places on the west coast, though.
Ranch homes are common in outer Hilo.
Expansive ranch homes can be found throughout outer Hilo.
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Top marks: Waiakea High and St. Joseph School
Hawaii Department of Education serves about 170,000 students across the islands, and roughly 7,500 of them are in Hilo. Waiakea High is the standout here. Niche gives it an A and ranks it the fourth-best public high school in the state, ahead of about 60 others. St. Joseph School is another highly rated option, and it’s the only Catholic school on the island. Though it serves prekindergarten through 12th grade, Niche ranks it the best Catholic school for high schoolers statewide, and it gets an A-plus overall. The University of Hawai’i at Hilo is a couple of miles south of downtown, and it has nearly 100 degree programs.
Waiakea High School is a highly rated public institution, and lies next to the University of Hawaii campus.
St. Joseph School is a private institution located in the heart of Downtown Hilo.
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Less traffic and a slower pace in Hilo
More rural than urban centers like Kailua-Kona and Honolulu, Hilo has a lack of sidewalks and bike lanes. However, this area has much less traffic. Major thoroughfares — Hawaii Route 200 through downtown, Kamehameha Avenue along the coast — are mostly free flowing, and drivers are known to especially courteous. Hele-On Bus offers an alternative to driving and operates on major thoroughfares. Hilo International Airport, though named an international airport, typically runs interisland flights to Maui and O’ahu. Residents might take the flight to Honolulu to see health specialists, as Hilo Benioff Medical Center is a small hospital with limited availability.
Enjoy a warm and captivating sunset off the shores of Hilo.
Hilo enjoys a slower pace of life, with less traffic and quieter neighborhoods.
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Written By
Matt Medl
Photography Contributed By
Paul Peck
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Marisa Sullivan,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Hilo, HI sell after 78 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Hilo, HI over the last 12 months is $550,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your private slice of Hilo living on desirable Manono Street—where comfort, flexibility, and convenience come together. Tucked away on a peaceful flag lot, this versatile 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers over 1,600 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, ideal for multi-generational living or generating rental income. All of this, just minutes from Hilo Medical Center, the
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Discover island living at its best in this clean, well-maintained, move-in ready 3-bedroom, 1.5 bath home located in Waiakea Homestead Houselots. Thoughtfully cared for and recently updated, this home offers comfort, privacy, and a touch of flexibility with an inviting layout and beautiful views of Mauna Kea. Situated on a flag lot for privacy from the roadway, with a landscaped yard that is just
A Visionary Tropical Estate: Modern Craftsmanship Meets Orchard AbundanceDiscover a residence where contemporary showpiece design meets thoughtful, master-level function at every turn. This is not a typical remodel, it’s a meticulously orchestrated statement with a cool island vibe. Previously aging, this home has been transformed into an “anti-boring” statement. The chef’s kitchen is truly
A place to dream. A front-row seat to nature’s daily show. From what feels like eye level above the bay, watch whales breach in season, sparkling water year round, cruise ships pass gracefully, and the moon and sun rise over Hilo Bay in breathtaking fashion. This is oceanfront living at its finest. Located within walking distance to charming downtown Hilo, you’re just moments from the
Nearly 4 acres in Hilo - NO CC&R's! Full K-2 Survery Just Completed! County Water ! Entrance is over 17 feet wide making the cherry stem (which is owned- this is NOT an easement) much wider than most! ACREAGE IN HILO......Fabulous Location to Build the Home of your Dreams!! A recently created subdivision with many beautiful homes. The perfect location for that country feeling, yet so close to
LIving on the Wailuku river is like no other experience! You may think you won't get used to the rush of the water and then you realize you are sleeping like a baby! Sellers have traveled the world, living in many environments so they built this home to incorporate that full lifestyle. This floor plan enabled them to welcome visitors from around the globe while they worked at their creative
Discover the charm and comfort of island living in this beautifully appointed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the desirable Sunrise Ridge Estates. With over 2,000 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, this residence offers the perfect blend of elegance, function, and aloha spirit. Step inside to find ceramic tile flooring that flows seamlessly throughout, complemented by custom
A rare opportunity in an established Hilo neighborhood within Zone 8, with excellent proximity to Hilo’s most popular attractions, without the usual traffic concerns.Just minutes from shopping, medical facilities, Honoli‘i surf break, Liliuokalani Park, Richardson’s Beach Park, the Farmers Market, and downtown conveniences.This property spans three TMK parcels totaling 11,391 square feet,
Large home custom designed and built in Sunrise Estates for an active lifestyle .Fun to entertain or just relax! 2 bedrooms 1.5 baths on main level. Primary suite upstairs with separate shower in addition to a jetted tub. Lanai/deck off this large room opens to the ocean breezes. Home has a very large attached garage. PLUS you have a fully permitted additional building of 1200 sq.ft. perfect for
Stylishly remodeled and thoughtfully updated, this Hilo home offers approximately 1,900 total square feet under roof in a convenient in town location. Connected to county water, municipal sewer, and gas, it provides the comfort of modern infrastructure along with a fresh, contemporary feel. Inside, the home features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with a bright, open living area anchored by a well
Welcome to your private slice of Hilo living on desirable Manono Street—where comfort, flexibility, and convenience come together. Tucked away on a peaceful flag lot, this versatile 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers over 1,600 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, ideal for multi-generational living or generating rental income. All of this, just minutes from Hilo Medical Center, the
Tucked away on a large, quiet flag lot, this vintage Hilo residence, built in the 1920s, offers classic island charm and plenty of potential. Situated on a 16,912 sq. ft. lot, just minutes from UH Hilo, schools, shops, cafés, and historic Bayfront, this location blends privacy with convenience. With RS-10 zoning and the new Bill 123, buyers are encouraged to investigate the possibility of adding
Discover a truly special off-grid homestead retreat in the cool, lush rainforest of Eden Roc Estates on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. Tucked away for privacy, this turn-key cabin offers the perfect opportunity for buyers seeking a more self-sufficient and sustainable island lifestyle. This unique property offers the rare combination of robust off-grid infrastructure, privacy, and a vast
Unmatched Value — Fully Renovated Home at a Truly Rare PriceWelcome to your slice of paradise in Mauna Loa Shores, Keaukaha, Hilo! This beautifully renovated, fully furnished condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience, making it an ideal investment or personal retreat. Currently a successful "mid-term" rental (min 31 days are allowed), this unit has been
Property Id: 1803130Aloha, Available May 1. Please tell us a little about yourself and your family and when you desire to move in. - Large. classic Hilo home, custom remodeled. - Excellent location in Hilo off Kaumana and Mohouli. Close to hospitals, UH Hilo, etc. - Open floor plan with a spacious kitchen, living room, and dining room - 3 full bathrooms (1 with
Property Id: 23019712 Bedrooms for rent in Hilo Town, June 1st, 2026: * $550 - Rm# 2 - Upstairs Bedroom Marked #2 on graph)* $500 - Rm# 1 - Downstairs (Below Bedroom Marked #1 & 2 on graph)(Downstair Rooms similar placement as graph.)YOGA HOMEBuddhist Hindu, 80-year old Grandma Vegetarian, opening her home for like-kind lifestyle = YOGI.Welcoming
Property Id: 16318623 Bed/2 Bath Fully furnished and includes utilities. Yard is 15,000 sq/ft about. Very safe area to live and friendly and great neighbors, cooler side of Hilo, 2000 feet elevation and away from the hustle and bustle, but still close enough to everything and every place you need like hospital, schools, shopping, dining, beach, downtown Hilo, waterfalls and Hilo
Property Id: 2250198Renovated 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Home in HiloEnjoy island comfort in this freshly updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home centrally located in Hilo. This home has been tastefully renovated with fresh interior paint and new flooring in the living room, kitchen, and bathroom.The downstairs area is open, spacious, and versatile, offering plenty of room for storage,
Luxury 3 Bed / 3 Bath Home in HiloLive in comfort and style on the Big Island! This stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in Hilo offers upscale living with space to relax, entertain, and enjoy island life. Featuring a spacious layout, modern finishes, and a prime location close to town, this home is perfect for those seeking both convenience and beauty.Located in Hilo, HI3
Delight in the tropical charm of 83a Lama Street, a cozy sanctuary nestled in the heart of Panaewa, Hilo. This inviting two-bedroom home offers 600 square feet of serene living space designed for comfort and ease. Awaken each day to the gentle sounds of nature, as lush greenery surrounds your new home, creating a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle. The open layout seamlessly blends
$2,200 per month
Furnished Beachfront Condo with Stunning Ocean Views
Live steps from the sand in this furnished 2 bedroom, 1 bath beachfront condo, offering ocean views, modern upgrades, and unbeatable convenience. This unit is designed for comfortable living with everything you need already in place.Unit Features:Furnished 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath — move-in readyMurphy Bed in One Bedroom — perfect for guests or flexible use of spaceUpgraded Shower
2nd floor, two bedroom, two bath Bayshore Towers Condo with views of the Pacific and lush Hawaiian greenery. Lots of windows for your comfort. Beautiful tropical atmosphere, unique and cheerful. Electricity, water, WIFI & Cable included. Assigned parking. Building amenities include: Pool, Security Building, Resident Manager, Library, small Gym & Laundry on-site. Walk to beaches, parks,
Well kept apartment on the 3rd floor in Wainaku. Fully furnished 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath with an enclosed lanai. Wainaku Terrace common area offers a pool, shared laundry room and one assigned parking stall. Quiet area and move in ready!Includes range, refrigerator, water, trash. Tenant responsible for electric, internet, phone. No pets.Contact: Brendan L Freitas R(S)Apply at:
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This property has the best of both worlds! Minutes away from downtown, yet completely tucked away off a private culdesac. Set back down a long gated driveway with a completely fenced yard- this classic mid century Hilo Home has been recently renovated with tasteful modern touches. The kitchen features all new appliances, an enormous island, and classic subway tile backsplash. Dining and living
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