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Hilo is so different than other parts of Hawaii. It had an old-fashion-y feel to it. Older buildings in downtown and beautiful moss covered bridges. Gorgeous giant, old banyan trees and other beautiful trees and plants you dont get to see in other more popular locations. Has amazing waterfalls a short drive away and lots of farms that give the area a quaint feel.

An interesting town. CBD seemed very small and old, a little rundown, although filled with great cafes and restaurants. Recommend "Pineapples" - but you will have to book ahead or line up and wait. Then Hilo expands around it and some of it is very modern. A great starting point for volcano and astronomy fans.

From our Deluxe Ocean View Room, we caught a glimpse of Mauna Kea after the clouds and rain stopped, beautiful view of Coconut Island and the Hotel Swimming Pool. Welcoming Front Desk Staff and got free water bottles upon check-in, and a $5.00 coupon per room for the designated reservations stay dates at Hilo Hawaiian on-site Restaurant, WSW The Steakhouse. Surroundings were peaceful and quiet. Enjoyed the scenery from our balcony. Free parking.

Hilo is a very relaxing place. I live in Oahu, a very fast paced island, so if you need to relax go to Hilo. Everything in Hilo closes early. If you stay at a nice place like the Guest House you will enjoy it. I only stayed 2 days and 1 night, too short. There is a walmart close to the airport, so just go there to pick up snacks and toiletries and your good to go. I would recommend doing take out since Restaurants close early. Getting around is easy. Just find a great place to stay, invite a few friends and you will enjoy your stay. I would recommend stay at least 3 days. 1 day to just relax and then 2 days to go site seeing.

Hilo is a slower-paced alternative to Kona that feels slightly less touristy. It has an array of restaurants and shoppes and accommodations are a bit more affordable. Hilo is a great base for waterfall viewing and hiking. The Mauna Loa macadamia factory is close by too. If you have food allergies there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian restaurants here, including nicoco gelato which is entirely dairy free and rotates over 400 flavors. The suisan fish market is great for poke too. We enjoyed coconut grill as well and while we get a chance to try Tina's kitchen, we met the owner - who is just the sweetest- she's renowned for placing her own spin on authentic thai for almost 20 years. Check out the farmers market for artisan goods and to try local produce, it is much more authentic than downtown Kona's. Volcano national park is also only 35-45 min away as well. If you stay in Hilo I'd recommend either SCP Hilo because of their phenomenal hospitality and eco-conscious efforts or the Naniloa Hilton if you'd rather a more resort feel.

This side of the island runs at a little different pace. It seems more intwined with Hawain culture and heritage. Everyone we encountered was a very nice experience. Very friendly, helpful, and courteous.