Hawaii is world-famous for its year-round great weather. What better way to take advantage of this than by visiting a local park? Luckily, the Hilo area is overflowing with great spots to get outside and relax, spend time with your family, or go for a walk. Grab your water bottle, hop in your Honda Accord, and drive over to one of these great parks near Hilo, HI.
1. Scenic Outlook Park
This park is located at 10-33 Mamalahoa Hwy. and offers breathtaking scenic views across Hilo Bay to the breakwater that extends from the opposite shore. Scenic Outlook Park is beautiful but does not offer walking trails, so if you are looking for a full afternoon, check out one of these other great spots.
2. Wailuku River State Park
You will find this state park at 2-198 Rainbow Drive. This is a gorgeous spot where you can see an 80-foot waterfall, Rainbow Falls, which is the legendary home of Maui’s mother Hina. You can also enjoy other interesting geologic features in the park, including the Boiling Pots, a series of pools connected by underground tunnels that give the appearance of boiling water, and a number of hexagonal basalt columns.
3. Carlsmith Beach Park
Carlsmith Park is located at 1815 Kalanianaole Street between two other popular beaches. This is a perfect destination to relax by the water and enjoy the view. Sea turtles frequent the lagoon, making this a great snorkeling spot in Hilo. It’s also a great place to bring a picnic lunch or some fishing poles and enjoy the water and the breeze with your friends and family.
4. Kaumana Caves State Park
Located at 1492 Kaumana Drive, this park allows you to descend into a lava tube cave. The lava tube was created by an eruption of Mauna Loa in 1881, and there is a ladder in place for access. This cave excursion is only half a mile round trip, so there is no need to make extensive preparations, and it can be enjoyed by the whole family. It is recommended that visitors bring a flashlight.
5. Kūlanihāko‘i Mountain Bike Park
This trail can be accessed off Stainback Hwy. in the mountainous area of southern Hilo. It offers an almost 10-mile-long biking path through the forested mountains that was purpose-built for mountain biking. This tight and twisty trail features relatively gentle terrain for the area, with only about 200 feet of elevation gain. Hiking and hunting are allowed in the park, but motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Hilo is surrounded by fantastic natural beauty, so it is definitely worth visiting one of these great spots. Whether you are looking for scenic views, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, or biking, Hilo will impress you. Before you hit the trail, come visit us at Tony Honda Hilo to see our newest inventory.
Image from Pixabay by David Mark-PB
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