Hilo is well positioned for some real adventures. It’s known for its pretty downtown district, astronomical observatories, and easy access into nature right on its doorstep.
First up on your list of things to do in Hilo is simply to take a walk around the downtown area. Here you’ll find historic wooden storefronts, galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants, making it ideal for an afternoon or morning of strolling around.
It’s actually the Big Island’s oldest surviving wooden building, and is worth paying a visit simply for its own history. Famous guests here include Mark Twain and Isabella Bird.
Kilauea, or more accurately Kilauea Caldera, is an active volcano on the southeast shore of the Big Island that's part of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
A kayak is a good way to go, with relatively calm waters to paddle around in – go with a guide and you’ll have the added benefit of insider information (and history) as you discover the Hilo coastline.
If adventurous things to do in Hilo are what you’re looking for, take note of this place. Kaumana Cave is a two-mile long lava tube formed in 1881 thanks to the lava flow of a then-erupting Mauna Loa.