A visit to Volcanoes National Park, which has been described as a true wonder of the world, is the state’s biggest attraction and is an absolute must. Within the national park’s boundaries are a variety of scenic drives and 150 miles of hiking trails.
Tropical Hilo, on the northeastern side of the island, is exceptionally lush and offers sweeping views of majestic Mauna Kea. The flourishing Hilo-Hamukua Heritage Coast, between Honoka’a and Hilo, is a 45-mile drive through scenic byways, hidden waterfalls, former sugar mill towns, and plantation villages. Exotic tropical flowers are in bloom from south Hilo throughout the flower-growing district of Puna. Many of the gardens and nurseries are open for tours.
