Ruth Haines
Hilo International Airport (ITO) is one of two major airports on the Big Island of Hawaii. The airport is located on the east side of the island and is served by inter-island airlines. The Big Island is home to active volcanoes, orchid farms, waterfalls, and a rugged coastline. There are several attractions and activities near the airport, including the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness active volcanoes, lava fields, and scenic drives. Hilo's location also offers excellent stargazing opportunities, with night tours to Mauna Kea's summit for a breathtaking celestial experience. The Hamakua Coast, connecting Hilo to Waipi'o Valley, offers incredible scenery with waterfalls and canyons lined by lush rainforest. The 'Imiloa Astronomy Center is another great option for those interested in Hawaiian culture and astronomy. For outdoor adventures, you can explore the Kaumana Caves Park, a 25-mile-long lava tube, or visit the Rainbow Falls, perfect for an early morning picnic. Hilo also offers a variety of eateries, such as Ken's House of Pancakes, Cafe 100, and Moon and Turtle, where you can savour Hawaiian and local dishes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Code | ITO |
| Location | East side of the Island of Hawaii |
| Airlines | Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele, United Airlines |
| Transport to/from Airport | Taxi, bus, rental car |
| Attractions | Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, Kaumana Caves Park, Rainbow Falls, Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo, 'Imiloa Astronomy Center, Hamakua Coast, Banyan Drive, Reeds Bay, Carlsmith Beach Park, Richardson Ocean Park |
| Food | Ken's House of Pancakes, Cafe 100, Moon and Turtle |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Getting to Hilo from the airport
Hilo International Airport (ITO) is located on the east side of the Island of Hawaii and serves most of East Hawaiʻi, including the districts of Hilo and Puna. The airport offers a straightforward way to get to Hilo, with options to travel by taxi, bus, or rental car.
If you choose to take a taxi, you can find one at the designated taxi lane in front of the baggage claim area. Taxi rates are approximately $3.00 flag drop + $0.30 per 1/8th mile + $0.30 per minute for waiting time + $1.00 per bag. The ride from the airport to downtown Hilo takes less than 15 minutes.
For those who prefer public transportation, there is a public bus service that runs from the airport to the main bus terminal in downtown Hilo. The Hele-on bus service operates about eight buses a day from Monday to Saturday.
Alternatively, you can opt for a rental car. Most major rental car companies, as well as some local ventures, have kiosks located just across from the arrival area. Local companies often offer the best rates.
Once you arrive in downtown Hilo, you can explore the city's attractions, such as its natural wonders, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Hilo's location on the Big Island also offers excellent stargazing opportunities and scenic drives along the Hamakua Coast.
Bern Airport: Does It Exist?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Exploring the outdoors
The Hilo International Airport (ITO) is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, serving most of East Hawaiʻi, including the districts of Hilo and Puna. The island is home to active volcanoes, orchid farms, waterfalls, and a rugged coastline. If you're looking to explore the outdoors, there are plenty of options to choose from, including:
Hiking
The lush and green surroundings of Hilo offer stunning hikes, from short 30-minute walks through botanical gardens to hour-long treks to witness red-hot lava. The Hawaiʻi Bioreserve and Garden and the Kilaueaʻiki crater are two easily accessible and moderately easy hikes close to Hilo. The Hamakua Coast, a 40-mile stretch of land connecting Hilo to Waipi’o Valley, offers numerous spectacular waterfalls and incredible canyons lined by lush rainforest.
Waterfalls
The Rainbow Falls, located within Hilo, are a perfect spot for a picnic or an early morning visit. The volume of the falls changes daily, and they are especially impressive after a good rain upstream. There are also numerous waterfalls along the Hamakua Coast and the forest trails near Hilo, with both long and short paths available.
Beaches
Reeds Bay, located on the other side of Banyan Drive, offers nice grass areas and family-friendly beach spots. The shallow water makes it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Carlsmith Beach Park and Richardson Ocean Park, on the south side of Hilo town, are also great options for a fun beach day.
Outdoor Adventures
Hilo offers a range of outdoor adventures, including helicopter tours, stargazing at Mauna Kea's summit, and exploring the Kaumana Caves, a 25-mile-long lava tube created by the 1881 flow from Mauna Loa.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
While not in Hilo itself, the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit attraction. Here, you can witness active volcanoes, explore lava fields, and enjoy scenic drives.
Arriving Early: Navigating Airport Arrival Times Stress-Free
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Hilo's food scene
For a true taste of Hawaii, spend some time exploring the local eateries in Hilo. Most restaurants are concentrated in downtown Hilo, with a range of options, from mom-and-pop diners to cafe-style venues and finer dining establishments. Hilo has a thriving food truck scene, with mobile eateries serving inventive and delicious dishes. The city also has a vibrant bar scene, with fun and hip bars like The Temple Bar serving fantastic drinks and pupu.
Some favourite local spots include Pineapples, a popular downtown venue with a fun bar scene, indoor/outdoor dining, and live music. Moon and Turtle is another great option for high-quality, locally sourced Pacific Fusion cuisine in a warm and low-key setting. Cafe 100 is a unique Hilo dining destination, serving delicious and affordable Hawaiian cuisine. Hilo Coffee Mill is perfect for coffee lovers, offering visitor tours and insights into coffee culture.
For breakfast, Ken's Pancake House is an iconic choice, with huge portions and friendly service. Sweet Cane Cafe is also fantastic for vegetarian breakfast or lunch, with great coffee, fresh juices, and acai bowls. Hilo Bay Cafe offers stunning views, Pacific fusion cuisine, and locally sourced organic ingredients. Nearby, Suisan Fish Market is a great spot for a poke bowl. Cafe Pesto, located in the historic Bayfront area, serves locally sourced dishes like wood-fired shrimp and Thai sweet chili pizza.
Hilo's Friday night market, founded in 2021, is a great option for exploring a range of local foods and celebrating the diverse cultures that call Hawaii home. Standout dining experiences at the market include Melange Hawaii Style Birra Tacos, Vai Niu, Lemonade Honey, and Jillann's Caribbean Food.
Best Airport Options for Your Trip to Madrid
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cultural experiences
Hilo, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its abundant natural wonders, including active volcanoes, orchid farms, waterfalls, and a rugged coastline. The area surrounding Hilo International Airport offers a range of cultural experiences for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Here are some suggestions:
Explore Hilo's Cultural Heritage
- Hula Performances: Enjoy the graceful art of hula, a traditional Hawaiian dance form that tells stories and embodies the island's culture and history.
- Local Art Galleries: Visit galleries showcasing the works of local artists, where you can appreciate the unique artistic styles and themes inspired by Hawaiian culture and nature.
- Traditional Hawaiian Ceremonies and Events: Participate in traditional Hawaiian cultural events and ceremonies, allowing you to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions.
Discover Hawaiian History and Culture
- 'Imiloa Astronomy Center: This educational center offers insights into Hawaiian culture and astronomy. It features exhibits, activities, and a full-dome planetarium, providing a great learning experience for both adults and children.
- Lyman Museum and Mission House: The Lyman Museum gives visitors a concise history of the island of Hawaii and its culture. The adjacent Lyman family home showcases the story of Hawaii's education, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the island's past.
- Kaumana Caves Park: Venture into the Kaumana Caves, a skylight in a 25-mile-long lava tube created by the 1881 flow from Mauna Loa. The lava tube provides a unique perspective on the area's volcanic history.
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture
- Farmers Market: Wander through the bustling Hilo Farmers Market, where you'll find an array of local produce, tropical fruits, handmade crafts, and live music. It's a great way to interact with local vendors and experience the authentic culture of Hilo.
- Local Eateries: Sample Hawaiian and local dishes at restaurants like Ken's House of Pancakes, Cafe 100, and Moon and Turtle. Don't forget to indulge in shave ice or malasadas, sweet treats unique to the area.
- Liliuokalani Gardens: Stroll through these serene Edo-style Japanese gardens, featuring towering banyan trees, tranquil ponds, and traditional bridges. The historical park offers an opportunity for cultural appreciation and a peaceful escape.
TSA Staffing at Airports: How Many Are Enough?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Weather considerations
Hilo International Airport is located on the east side of the Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island. The airport is a short distance from downtown Hilo, with the highway to Volcano, Kona, and Waimea passing right in front of it. The island is known for its active volcanoes, orchid farms, waterfalls, and rugged coastline. The tropical climate of the region is characterised by warm temperatures and occasional rain showers, which contribute to the lush greenery and vibrant flora that surrounds the airport.
When planning a visit to Hilo Airport, it is important to consider the weather conditions, which can vary throughout the year. The dry season in Hawaii typically lasts from May to October, offering warmer and sunnier days with minimal rainfall. This period may be ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions nearby, such as the Hamakua Coast, with its scenic waterfalls and canyons. The dry season is also a popular time for helicopter tours departing from Hilo Airport, offering breathtaking views of tropical waterfalls and active lava fields.
On the other hand, the wet season in Hawaii occurs from November to March, bringing more frequent rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. While the rain showers contribute to the island's lush greenery, they may impact outdoor activities and transportation. It is advisable to check the weather forecast and be prepared for potential travel disruptions during this period. The wet season also coincides with the winter months, when Hawaii experiences slightly lower temperatures, especially in the evenings. Packing accordingly for the cooler weather is recommended.
Regardless of the season, it is important to be mindful of the tropical climate and occasional rain showers in the region. Carrying rain gear, such as umbrellas or light raincoats, is always a good idea. Additionally, the warm temperatures may call for lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable during your visit. It is also worth noting that Hilo Airport is located just a few miles from the coast, so the weather conditions can include coastal breezes and higher humidity levels.
Dubai Airport: Uber Availability and Accessibility
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can get to and from the airport by taxi, bus, or rental car. The taxi ride from the airport to downtown Hilo is less than 15 minutes. There are around eight buses a day from the airport to the main bus terminal in central Hilo. You can also rent a car at the airport, with most major rental companies present outside the arrival hall.
Hilo has a range of attractions, eateries, and natural wonders. You can visit the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, the 'Imiloa Astronomy Centre, or Kaumana Caves Park. You can also take helicopter tours, hike through the lush rainforest, or stroll through the Hawai'i Bioreserve and Garden.
You can try Hawaiian and local dishes at eateries like Ken's House of Pancakes, Cafe 100, and Moon and Turtle. You can also try shave ice or malasadas for a sweet treat.
