Hilo (ITO) is the #1 trending US domestic destination for 2026 per Google Flights, ahead of Honolulu. Fly into ITO via SFO, LAX, SEA or HNL. Stay in Hilo town or Volcano village. Bring rain gear — east side of Big Island gets daily showers (which is why it's so green).
At a Glance
| Country | United States |
|---|---|
| Main airport | ITO |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language | English |
| Best time to visit | April–June, September–October |
| Visa for US citizens | No visa needed — Hawaii is a US state. |
Top Things to Do in Hilo
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Kīlauea + Mauna Loa)
- Akaka Falls + Rainbow Falls
- Hilo Farmers Market (Wed + Sat)
- Mauna Kea sunset + stargazing
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
- Imiloa Astronomy Center
- Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
- Big Island helicopter tour over lava
- Day trip to Kona (West side, sunny)
- Snorkeling at Two Step or Captain Cook
Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- Hilo town — historic, walkable, local feel
- Volcano Village — near national park
- Pahoa — bohemian, lower Puna
- Honokaa — north side, ranching country
- Waikoloa — west side, sunnier, resorts
- Kailua-Kona — west side, busy tourist area
Our recommendation: Hilo town for first-time Big Island visitors, Volcano Village for park access, Waikoloa/Kona for sunny resort vibe.
What to Eat
- Loco moco (rice + hamburger + egg + gravy)
- Poke bowls (best at Ono Hawaiian)
- Spam musubi
- Malasadas (Portuguese donuts)
- Plate lunch
- Hawaiian shave ice
- Kona coffee
- Fresh tropical fruit at Hilo Farmers Market
How to Get Around
Renting a car is essential on the Big Island. Distances are large: Hilo to Kona is 2 hours. No real public transit. Roads are well-marked but rural.
How to Get There from the USA
Main airport: ITO.
👉 See our Los Angeles flight page.
👉 Call +1 (833) 546-3547 for live agent quotes.
👉 Or set a price watch and get an email when a matching fare appears.
Visa & Entry Requirements (US Citizens)
No visa needed — Hawaii is a US state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Hilo?
April–June, September–October.
Do US citizens need a visa for United States?
No visa needed — Hawaii is a US state.
Where should I stay in Hilo?
Hilo town for first-time Big Island visitors, Volcano Village for park access, Waikoloa/Kona for sunny resort vibe.
How do I book cheap flights to Hilo?
Call +1 (833) 546-3547 24/7.
Can you bundle the flight with a hotel?
Yes — full-service travel agency. Hotel booking.