Renting one of many Hilo Town vacation rentals is an ideal way to experience the quieter, less touristy western shore of the "big island" of Hawaii. Hilo, the largest community on the island of Hawaii, sits in the shadow of two large volcanoes, Moana Loa and Mauna Kea. The town is also home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, and Hilo reflects this young, vibrant demographic.
Hilo Attractions
Visitors to Hilo will find many things to do and see. Among the highlights are:
- Banyan Drive - Also known as "the Hilo Walk of Fame," this strip is adorned by scores of Banyan trees, planted by such varied celebrities as Babe Ruth, Cecil B. DeMille, and Richard Nixon.
- Lyman House Memorial Museum - This natural history museum, founded in 1931, features an array of exhibits on Hawaiian culture and natural history.
- Lili'uokalani Park and Gardens - This beautiful 30-acre Japanese garden and park is named for Queen Lili'uaokalani who donated the land for the site.
- Volcanoes National Park - Located about a half hour from Hilo,Volcanoes National Park, established in 1916, encompasses 377 square miles. It includes Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world as well as Mauna Loa and Mauna Ulu. Visitors can view exhibits about the volcanoes at the Kilauea visitors' Center and the Jagger Museum.
- Merrie Monarch Festival - Held each spring around Easter, this week-long hula festival honors King David Kalakaua, dubbed "the Merrie Monarch." Events include a craft fair, live entertainment, and, of course, a hula competition.
Finding Hilo Town Vacation Rentals
Hilo Town vacations rentals are a great way to experience the western shore of Hawaii. Such rentals give you more room than traditional hotel accommodations and often include cooking facilities. Hilo Town vacation rentals are offered by the week, month, or for the entire season. Amenities vary widely among properties, ranging from simple one-bedroom apartments to spacious multi-bedroom houses. Most condo complexes and some private homes feature private swimming pools, outdoor patios and deck areas. Some even offer beach access. Other amenities and services sometimes offered are washer and dryers, high-speed Internet access, and indoor parking. Rates for Hilo vacation rentals start at around $300 per week and increase to $3000 and more. Few summer rentals offer maid service or on-site restaurants; instead, rentals generally come fully furnished and outfitted with linens and kitchen supplies. Guests bring their own food and personal affects. Smoking and pet policies vary among rentals. Be sure to ask the property in which are you interested about their policy.
Booking Hilo Town Vacation Rentals
A number of companies act as brokers for individual properties and condo developments, seeking to rent their buildings and units. Among these are:
Most rentals require a deposit at the time of booking with the balance payable 60 to 90 days prior to your arrival. In most cases, payments are non-refundable unless the property is re-rented.
