Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo is a coastal city in the U.S state of Hawaii. Earlier in 1800, missionaries came to the city and founded several churches. Later, it expanded inland in 1960 as sugar plantations. Although it was destroyed much after the tsunami in 1946 and 1960, the city recovered and developed to become a known city in the Hawaiian Island. It is now the largest community on the island of Hawai'i and the county seat of Hawai'i County. It is also the second largest city in Hawaii.

Area & Location: Located in the South Hilo District, the city lies near two mountains, Mauna Loa, an active volcano, and Mauna Kea. Being the southernmost city in the U.S, Hilo is located at 19º42'20? Latitude North and 155º5'9? Longitude West. The city occupies a total area of 151.4 sq. km with 140.6 sq. km of land and 10.7 sq. km of water. It has a population of 40,759.

Tourist Attractions: Beautiful gardens and museums that describe the story of the city lures in millions of tourists every year.

Transportation: Hilo International and Kona International are the important airports that serve the city. Rental cars and taxis are the inexpensive method of transportation in the city. Bus service is also available in the city. The highway system makes the traffic easier in the city.

Hotels: Hilo is home to a number of hotels that provide most modern amenities to its guests. The beach side resorts help the visitors to avail and enjoy the marine food served on its tables. Dolphin Bay, Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Country Club Hawaii Condo Hotel, Hilo Seaside Hotel, Arnott's Lodge, Waiakea Villas, Uncle Billy's Hilo Bay Hotel and Hawaii Naniloa Hotel are the outstanding hotels in the city.

Places of Attraction: Hilo Tropical Gardens, Liliuokalani Park and Gardens, Coconut Island, Nani Mau Gardens, University of Hawaii at Hilo Botanical Gardens, Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, Nani Mau Gardens, Wailuku River State Park and Honoli'i Beach Park are the must visit places in the city. Lyman Museum, Pacific Tsunami Museum that tells the story of the tsunami waves that hit the city and Naha Stone are the highlights of Hilo. The city is also gateway to Hawaii Volcano National Park and many historic attractions like Orchid Island.