Hale Kohola

<30 Minute Drive

Half-day excursions close to home

Tropical Botanical Gardens
Tropical Botanical Gardens
2-4 hours; have lunch before or after at What’s Shakin
Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls
422′ waterfall; roughly 0.5 mile paved(ish) loop. 1-2 hours
Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive
Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive
30 minute drive; combine with the Tropical Botanical Gardens
Honomu Goat Dairy
Honomu Goat Dairy
nice short stop after visiting Akaka Falls
Umauma Falls ZIpline
Zipline, ATV, Waterfall Rappeling Tours
Tsunami Museum
Budget at least 2 hours for this. You could easily spend an entire afternoon here.
Honoli’i Beach Park
Popular intermediate+ surf spot.
Onomea Bay
Popular series of hiking trails leading to the ocean; great add-on to the Tropical Botanical Gardens
Lyman Museum
Smithsonian Affiliate museum with exhibits on volcanoes and the history of the Hawaiian people, gem and mineral displays.
Rainbow Falls
80′ waterfall covering the entrance to the home of the ancient Hawaiian goddess of the moon, Hina. Popular with tourists, but the Akaka Falls are more impressive.
Carlsmith Beach Park
Popular large Bach park great for kids, with multiple large, protected saltwater lagoons, grassy areas, facilities and picnic areas
Liliuokalani Gardens Park
Picturesque Japanese Edo-style gardens right in the middle of downtown Hilo. Don’t miss seeing the centuries-old Banyan trees here!
Laupahoehoe Beach Park
Large beach park with plenty of grassy space and facilities. Rocky Beach with smaller tide pools and a boat harbor; currents can be strong here.