Hilo vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Hilo
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Popular amenities for Hilo vacation rentals
Other great vacation rentals in Hilo
Guesthouse in Hakalau
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviewsOceanfront Gated Estate Retreat - 1 with Horses
Sep 7 – 14
Bungalow in Pepeekeo
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 301 reviewsHeavenly Hakalau: Oceanfront Cliff House
Mar 18 – 25
Guesthouse in Pāhoa
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 426 reviewsMariner Cottage/Sunrise Cottages Hawaii
Mar 1 – 8
Guest suite in Keaau
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviewsOceanfront! Outstanding 2BR/2BA w Pool & Hot Tub
Jul 25 – Aug 1
Apartment in Pāhoa
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviewsOceanfront Hideaway. Watch Whales. Sleep to waves!
Jan 6 – 13
Cottage in Pāhoa
4.75 out of 5 average rating, 248 reviewsWhale House @ Kehena Beach-by lava fields/beaches
Jan 19 – 26
Hut in Pāhoa
4.78 out of 5 average rating, 409 reviewsCabin\ Bali Hut, tropical paradise
Jan 4 – 11
Condo in Hilo
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 36 reviewsPanoramic View of Hilo bay and Hamakua Coastline
Dec 23 – 30
Home rentals in Hilo
Home in Keaau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 332 reviewsThe Lilikoi Ohana - (No Cleaning Fee Or Deposits)
Nov 2 – 9
Home in Hilo
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 375 reviewsCute Convenient Cottage in the Heart of Hilo
Jan 9 – 16
Home in Keaau
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 195 reviews•*•Your Private Suite in Paradise! •*•
Nov 14 – 21
Home in Volcano
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviewsOhia Hideaway Bed & Breakfast
Apr 27 – May 4
Home in Keaau
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 340 reviewsHUGE! remodeled 270* view w/ocean sleeps 6!
Nov 15 – 22
Home in Pāhoa
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 274 reviewsIdyllic Stay at the Treetop Retreat
Jun 9 – 16
Home in Pāhoa
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 508 reviewsPuna Rainforest Retreat Hotspring: Green Bamboo
Dec 10 – 17
Home in Keaau
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 219 reviewsAvocado Acre (Family friendly-2 adults/3 kids max)
Jan 10 – 17
Oceanfront home rentals in Hilo
Home in Keaau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 189 reviewsAbsolute Oceanfront Paradise with Hot Tub and A/C!
Sep 21 – 28
Home in Pāhoa
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviewsKehena Beach Ocean Front Cliff House
Nov 12 – 19
Home in Pāhoa
4.8 out of 5 average rating, 404 reviewsOcean View Lux Home. Explore this side of Island
Nov 2 – 9
Home in Keaau
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviewsPali Hale - Epic Hawaii Oceanfront Experience
Mar 24 – 31
Home in Hilo
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviewsWai 'Olena - "Healing Ponds"
Apr 6 – 13
Home in Pepeekeo
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviewsHamakua Coast Tropical Home
Oct 16 – 23
Home in Pāhoa
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviewsKalapana Beach Haven
Nov 12 – 19
Home in Hilo
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 137 reviewsOceanfront Beach Cottage Hilo HI
Dec 11 – 18
Quick stats about vacation rentals in Hilo
Total rentals
500 properties
Rentals with a pool
90 properties have a pool
Pet-friendly rentals
50 properties allow pets
Family-friendly rentals
200 properties are a good fit for families
Total number of reviews
30K reviews
Nightly prices starting at
$30 before taxes and fees
Your guide to Hilo
Welcome to Hilo
The town of Hilo meets the definition of an idyllic Hawaiian destination. Its black sand beaches are lined with swaying palm trees arching over aquamarine waters, dramatic waterfalls plunge from shelves blotted by tropical rainforests, and some of the planet’s most active volcanoes are only a short drive away. Yet Hilo sees a fraction of the crowds drawn to its sunnier sister town of Kona. Hilo’s lush beauty and relaxed vibe can be attributed to its status as the rainiest city in the United States. Many visitors drop into Hilo for a quick visit before jumping off to explore the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. But hikers, snorkelers, waterfall chasers, and science enthusiasts will find a wide range of activities to choose from in Hilo, accompanied by a collegiate town spirit, thanks to the nearby University of Hawaii at Hilo.
The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Hilo
The lush eastern side of the island of Hawaii is temperate but characteristically wet, soaking in an annual average of 140 inches of rainfall. This wet climate means it’s advisable to layer or bring a light jacket in preparation for intermittent showers; if you plan to venture up to the higher elevations inland, especially near summits and volcanoes, come prepared for legitimately cold temperatures. Spring and fall generally offer visitors the best overlap of warm and dry days in Hilo, the latter months thinning out crowds as the tourist season comes to a close. Hurricane season spans June through November; while violent tropical storms are always a possibility, historically they’ve rarely made landfall across the Big Island.
Top things to do in Hilo
Punalu‘u Beach
Punalu‘u Beach is the most famous and accessible black sand beach on the island. Hawksbill and Hawaiian green turtles are known to amble up the volcanic-rock-tinted shoreline to sunbathe here. Just be sure to give these aquatic natives a wide berth onshore and in the water, as they’re protected under the Endangered Species Act.
Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive
While Rainbow Falls State Park unequivocally warrants a visit to take in its grand cascade of water, a more adventurous option awaits along this scenic serpentine 40-mile route tracing the North Shore of the island toward Waipi’o Valley. The road is dotted by a multitude of waterfalls and old sugar cane fields along the way.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden
While flora grows in abundance across Hilo, this botanical garden and nature preserve hosts a riot of tropical plants of unmatched color and beauty. There are more than 2,000 species collected and cultivated from across the globe, easily accessible to visitors by winding wooden pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the weather in Hilo?
Hilo has a tropical rainforest climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature is around 70-85°F (21-29°C). It's known as one of the wettest cities in the U.S., with the heaviest rainfall from November to March, but showers can occur at any time.
What are some of the best things to do in Hilo?
In Hilo, immerse yourself in nature at the Rainbow Falls or the Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, explore the Pacific Tsunami Museum for a dose of history, or visit the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens to see the local wildlife. The local Farmer's Market is also a favourite among visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit Hilo?
The most popular time to visit Hilo is during the summer, from June to September. During this period, visitors often attend the Hilo Orchid Society Annual Show and the Merrie Monarch Festival, a week-long celebration of traditional Hawaiian culture and hula dancing.
What are the best places to stay in Hilo?
Popular areas to stay in Hilo include Downtown Hilo for its close proximity to shops and restaurants, Keaukaha for its beachfront properties, and the Banyan Drive area, known for its lush, park-like ambiance and stunning views of Hilo Bay.
What are the best places to visit in Hilo?
Popular places to visit in Hilo include the Rainbow Falls, 'Akaka Falls State Park, Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, and the Pacific Tsunami Museum. The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden is also a firm favourite, offering the chance to explore a lush tropical rainforest.
What are some hiking trails in Hilo?
Hilo is home to several beautiful hiking trails. Consider exploring the Onomea Bay trail, a 4-mile (6.4 km) round trip through a lush botanical garden, or the Kaumana Caves trail, which leads through a fascinating lava tube. For a more challenging day out hike, the 4 mile (6.4 km) Kulaniapia Falls trail offers rewarding views.
What are some family activities to do in Hilo?
Families in Hilo can enjoy a day at the Hilo Bay Beachfront Park, explore the interactive exhibits at the 'Imiloa Astronomy Center, take a tour of the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation, or visit the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo to see a variety of animals and a beautiful botanical garden.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Hilo?
From Hilo, you can embark on a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, about 30 miles (48 km) away, to witness active volcanoes. Another option is the scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast, with stops at Akaka Falls and Waipio Valley.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Hilo?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 230 vacation rentals in Hilo featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Hilo?
Four-legged friends are welcome in Hilo. Choose from more than 50 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.
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