Let's Go Hawaii Travel Planner - Hilo & Volcano Itinerary

Hilo Bay with Mauna Kea in Background

Plan your Day in Hilo

There is a lot to see in and around Hilo town, including the impressiveVolcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. Whether you are a cruise-ship passenger or just short on time, you may only have one day to see everything, If you only have one day to see the main attractions, a must-see is the Volcanoes National Park.

We recommend you take at least two days to visit all the attractions on the Hilo (eastern) side of the island. But, if you have but one day, here is a suggested itinerary.

Remember to check the local weather forecast and consult Big Island maps and guide books for more details prior to starting your trip. Review our suggested Hawaii packing list before you depart from home.

Tour of Hilo and Volcano in 8 Hours or less
Event Time	Elapsed Time	Activity Description
START	0:00	Arrive Hilo International Airport orDepart area hotel
0:15	0:15	Drive to Richardson Beach Park, walk around and take a look at the black sand beach and scenery
0:30	0:45	Drive to Rainbow Falls State Parkat the edge of Hilo town and view the falls
0:30	1:15	Pick up a Plate Lunch (Blane’s Drive Inn or Kuhio Grille) or Deli Sandwich (Manono Mini Mart) to-go for a picnic at the Volcano
0:45	2:00	Drive to the Volcanoes National Park (10$ entrance fee per vehicle) View road map
0:45	2:45	Stop at the Visitor’s Center, view exhibits and walk across street to the Volcano House and observation deck
1:45	4:30	Drive around Crater Rim Drivecounter-clockwise stopping at these attractions: Sulphur Banks; Jaegar Museum; Halemaumau Crater; Thurston Lava Tube
2:00	6:30	Drive to the ocean via the Chain of Craters Road and stop at these attractions: Scenic Overlooks; Holei Sea Arch; end of road where lava flowed
1:30	8:00	Drive back to Hilo, stop at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory on the way home