I came across this website called trip advisor that lists things to do in my favorite town in the world, Hilo. I think that I will go through their list as time permits and immodestly interject my take on what they think are the best things to do in Hilo.
Mauna Loa Observatory
First on their list is Mauna Loa Observatory. First off, this is not in Hilo. Second, people talk about seeing pretty stars. Hello! This is an atmospheric observatory, not an astronomical observatory. The real observatories that gaze into the heart of the universe are on Mauna Kea, not Mauna Loa. But in any case, no one is going to let the general public look through a telescope. At least on Mauna Kea, you can stop by the visitor center. It has a few exhibits and a small shop. On Mauna Loa, I don’t think that you will find the same amenities. There is a nice lake on Mauna Kea which is kind of nice to look at and I guess it is somewhat novel to go to the summit and see snow. But why come all this way to a warm, tropical island to see some snow? There are better things to see near Hilo, but I guess this might give people a cool story to tell.
So best thing to do in Hilo? I would have to say no. But if you are staying here for a while, I guess you could do worse.
But if you are a cyclist and if you brought your bike, if you want one of the toughest climbs I have ever seen, you might consider the ride from the hunter check in station to the visitor center on Mauna Kea. The gradient hits 17% in a few spots and makes for a fun ride if you like pain and lots of suffering. And the descent, well that’s scarier than the climb for me. Just make sure you watch out for the two cattle guards or you might end up flying off your bike or at least denting or shattering a rim (depending on whether you prefer aluminum or carbon fiber). Now this is something worth talking about, but it only applies to a small group of people so it doesn’t count in my highly scientific rating system.
Yes, this list of things to do in Hilo is kind of short right now. Don’t worry, I have a lot more to say once I get around to it.
Akaka Falls
Again another one that trip advisor gets wrong. They say it is 9.3 miles from the city center but it really isn’t. Akaka Falls is barely in the district of Hilo and it is actually located in Honomu. But they are right that this is definitely something that is worth seeing. It is a 422 foot waterfall that is the biggest on the island and it’s well worth seeing. From the parking lot a short path takes you to an area where you can view Akaka Falls and it is majestic. The path goes through a rain forest so the vegetation is also worth seeing, though you might get tired of hearing birds singing. But I guess it is better to hear birds than coqui frogs. The path gets slippery when it rains, so be careful out there.
So the verdict on Akaka Falls is that it is well worth seeing, but it is a bit far from Hilo, proper.