""The Big Island" - East Side" Hilo by annk


Hilo Travel Guide: 287 reviews and 400 photos

We did not stay in Hilo, but drove around to the east side of the island to see the sights. Hilo is not considered to be a touristy area although there are a few hotels, and the cruise ships make a stop here. The area receives considerably more rain than the west side, supports many gardens, and is the center of Hawaii's orchid and anthurium industry. Many scenic waterfalls can be seen from or near the highway. Volcanoes National Park located to the south, is a favorite tourist destination.

We stayed in Waikoloa, on the west side which is about 20 minutes north of Kona. Most visitors stay in the Kona/Waikoloa area of which there are many hotels, resorts, and numerous golf courses. Please refer to my "Kailua-Kona" page for more photos (sunsets) and info on the big island.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:Lush & tropical, beautiful gardens, not as touristy as the west coast
  • Cons:Don't know of any
  • Last visit to Hilo: Nov 2000
  • Intro Updated May 6, 2006
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Reviews (3)

Comments (87)

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  • Shihar's Profile Photo
    Shihar Apr 5, 2007 at 6:26 AM Report Abuse

    Great pictures! I'm getting excited for my trip next month!

  • AnnemieB's Profile Photo
    AnnemieB Dec 15, 2006 at 5:48 PM Report Abuse

    Hello, I visited the volcano in September and I thought it was awesome! Great photo!

  • KonaJohn Apr 29, 2006 at 3:01 PM Report Abuse

    The place is very much improved since 2002. New management, new Garden Director. Give it a second chance, you'll be pleasantly surprised!

  • mtncorg's Profile Photo
    mtncorg Apr 19, 2004 at 10:55 AM Report Abuse

    The volcanoes of the Big Island are amazing, as you demonstrate. I recommend The Green Dolphin as a place to stay in Hilo if you like stay on the damp side next time;-]

  • mrclay2000's Profile Photo
    mrclay2000 Oct 7, 2003 at 7:44 PM Report Abuse

    Wonderful shot of the Hawaii volcanoes park! So you're beating me to the punch every time I look up.

  • matcrazy1's Profile Photo
    matcrazy1 Jul 13, 2003 at 11:45 AM Report Abuse

    Wonderful page and AMAZING, professional pictures especially of flowers in travelogue - better than in National Geographic Magazine :-))).

  • TropicGirl77's Profile Photo
    TropicGirl77 Feb 13, 2003 at 12:37 AM Report Abuse

    Wonderful. I really enjoyed your volcano and botanical gardens travelogues.

  • VERONIQUES's Profile Photo
    VERONIQUES Jan 24, 2003 at 8:31 PM Report Abuse

    Very nice pics. I like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park one.

  • xaver's Profile Photo
    xaver Aug 10, 2002 at 11:16 PM Report Abuse

    what a wonderful page!

  • QuimG's Profile Photo
    QuimG Aug 7, 2002 at 3:29 AM Report Abuse

    Very beautiful pictures

annk

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