Kona, not Hilo, is the place to stay on the island of Hawaii during your vacation. Kona offers better weather, the best beaches and snorkeling, newer resorts, more vacation rentals, and more nightlife compared to Hilo Town. Hilo is worth a visit but may not be worth staying for more than a night.
What is the difference between Hilo and Kona?
What are the main differences between Hilo and Kona? Kona feels more like a touristy suburban town, while Hilo has the vibe of an antique small town. Hilo is older and more tropical looking with all the plant life, and Kona is newer and less tropical.
Is Hilo worth visiting?
It Offers High-Flying Adventures
With its gorgeous tropical rainforests and incredible canopy views, Hilo is the perfect spot for zip-lining. There are several outfitters in and around Hilo, each offering different runs and scenic vistas.
What is the nicest part of the Big Island?
The Best Places on the Big Island for Tourists
- Kona. The Kona district takes up about two-thirds of the Big Island’s western coastline, from just south of Waikoloa Village (where Kohala begins) to Manuka Bay (where Ka’u begins).
- Hilo.
- Kohala.
- Puna.
- Hamakua.
- Ka’u.
Which side of the Big Island has the best beaches?
The Big Island’s most popular beach is located on the Kohala Coast on the northwestern shore of the island. This half-mile stretch of white sand is loved by many for its calm swimming conditions that are perfect for families with younger kids, as well as great for bodyboarding and snorkeling.
Is Kona worth visiting?
If you only have 4-5 days, perhaps spent 1 day in Hilo and the rest of your time on Kona or Volcanoes National Park. Kona and Hilo are both worth visiting – just adjust your schedule based on whether you prefer beaches and upscale shops or rainforests and history. You can’t go wrong with either destination!
Which side of Hawaii is the best?
Including Hilo and Nearby Areas. Locals refer to the Hilo side as the island’s East side, which includes downtown Hilo (the second largest town in Hawaii) and the Volcano area. Ultimately, the east side’s proximity to all the great Big Island attractions makes staying here worthwhile.
Is Hilo Hawaii a good place to stay?
Hilo – the best place to stay on the Big Island on a budget. Hilo is located on the east side of the Big Island and offers spectacular landscapes such as a rainforest, national parks, and gorgeous beaches. Hilo has a more local vibe and is a bit less touristy compared to the other parts of the island.
How is the drive from Kona to Hilo?
Driving to and from the island’s two largest towns—Kailua-Kona and Hilo—will take well over an hour, and that’s the short way. Driving along Hawaii Belt Road and Mamalahoa Highway would be considered the scenic route—the 125-mile trip takes about three hours.
Where Should tourists avoid in Hawaii?
10 Most Dangerous Places in Hawaii
- Wahiawa. Wahiawa with a population of 46,562 has a Livability Score of 58/100, which is considered poor.
- Makaha. This leeward Oahu census-designated place has a population of 8,934.
- Kahului.
- Pahoa.
- Ewa Beach.
- Hilo.
- Waianae.
- Kapaa.
Is Hilo HI safe?
The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Hilo is 1 in 29. Based on FBI crime data, Hilo is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Hawaii, Hilo has a crime rate that is higher than 93% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes.
Which island should you visit in Hawaii?
Oahu is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaii If…
Oahu is the best Hawaiian island to visit for those who want the amenities of city life like great restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. But you can still get all that while also enjoying slow-paced island life.
Where do the richest people live in Hawaii?
Hawaii places ranked by per capita income
| Rank | Place | Per Capita Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kapalua | $75,992 |
| 2 | Puako | $63,857 |
| 3 | Kaanapali | $48,506 |
| 4 | Maalaea | $43,571 |
Are there swimmable beaches in Hilo Hawaii?
The best (easiest to visit) beaches in Hilo are located in a string of beach parks that are located towards the south/east side of Hilo. All beaches are well suited for swimming, snorkeling and / or a picnic.
Does Kona have white sand beaches?
A secluded beach with pristine white sand located at Kua Bay, Manini’owali is one of Kona’s best white sand beaches. The water here is crystal-clear and, when it is calm, is perfect for snorkeling.
What is the most beautiful beach in Kona?
11 Best Beaches in Kona
- Spencer Beach.
- Anaeho’omalu Beach.
- Honl’s Beach.
- Makalawena Beach.
- Manini’owali Beach.
- Ke’alakeku’a Bay Park. Wooden sculptures at Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park.
- Ho`okena Beach Park. Ho`okena Beach Park.
- Keiki Ponds. Trail by the sea at the Old Kona Airport Recreation area in Kailua-Kona.
Does Kona have nice beaches?
Kona Coast or Kekaha Kai State Park is 1,600 acres of beautiful sand and pristine blue waters. Several beaches in the park are accessed via a 1.5-mile road located between the 91 and 90-mile markers on Highway 19 north of Kona.
Is Hilo or Kona closer to Volcano National Park?
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawai’i, 96 miles from Kailua-Kona and 30 miles from Hilo.
What is the best time of year to visit Kona Hawaii?
Clear Skies. The winter months between November and March rank as generally the best time to visit Kona. It’s then that Kona often experiences clear skies, which means it’s prime time for viewing constellations.
Is Kona the dry side of the island?
The west side (Kona side) is called the ‘dry side’ of the island, and the east side (Hilo side) the ‘wet side’.
Which Hawaiian island is the cheapest to visit?
Oahu
Oahu: The Least Expensive Hawaiian Island to Visit
Due to the abundance of hotels, activities, tours, and attractions, Oahu is the most affordable island for tourists to visit.
