Port of Call | Hilo, Hawaii
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If you've never been to the Big Island, Hilo is the side most visitors never see — and that's exactly what makes it special. This is the Hawaii of towering waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and ancient rainforest. It's quieter than Kona, less polished than Maui, and completely unforgettable.
The ship docks right in Hilo Bay, putting you within easy reach of everything.
Don't Miss
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — One of the most dramatic natural sites in the United States. Walk the rim of an active volcano, explore lava tubes, and see firsthand how the Big Island is still being formed. Plan at least half a day here — it earns every minute
- Rainbow Falls — A short, easy walk from the parking area leads to a 80-foot waterfall framed by wild ginger and tropical foliage. Go in the morning when the light catches the mist and creates the rainbow the falls are named for
- Akaka Falls — A scenic loop trail through bamboo groves and tropical flowers leads to one of Hawaii's most photogenic waterfalls — a 442-foot free-fall plunge into a lush gorge below
- Hilo Farmers Market — One of the best in the state. Fresh fruit, local honey, handmade crafts, and island-grown coffee. A great first stop before heading out for the day
Good to Know Hilo is on the wet side of the island — that's why everything is so green. A light rain jacket is worth having, even on a sunny morning. Showers pass quickly and the landscape is more beautiful for it.
The pace here is relaxed and local. This isn't a port for luxury shopping — it's a port for people who want to feel like they've actually been to Hawaii, not just passed through it.