Situated on the island of Hawaii’s eastern coast, Hilo is a charming community rich with natural beauty and cultural delights. Hilo’s daily rain maintains its lush greenery, keeping its rainforests fertile and its gardens in bloom. Hilo is home to the only rainforest zoo in the United States, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, which boasts an extensive collection of exotic plants and animals.

Hilo is also home to a welcoming community, which often gathers in the many art galleries, museums, restaurants, and shops of walkable Downtown Hilo, in addition to the Hilo Farmers Market. The University of Hawaii at Hilo also fosters a sense of community, touting a variety of cultural and educational opportunities.

Outdoor recreation is, naturally, a big part of life in Hilo. Richardson Ocean Park, Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens, Kaumana Caves, Wailuku River State Park, and Rainbow Falls are among Hilo’s most popular outdoor destinations.