Learn About Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo Overview

Hilo is a town on Hawaii's Big Island, known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls.
The town was originally settled by Polynesians around 1100 AD, and later became a hub for the sugarcane industry in the 19th century.
Hilo suffered major devastation in 1946 when a tsunami caused by an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands destroyed much of the town.
Today, Hilo is a thriving community with a rich cultural heritage and a strong focus on sustainability and conservation.

Hilo is one of the wettest cities in the United States, with an average annual rainfall of over 130 inches.
The town is home to the largest tropical botanical garden in the United States, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
Hilo is also known for its diverse population, with a mix of Native Hawaiian, Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese influences.

Barbara Norfleet, a renowned photographer and author, was born in Hilo.
Duke Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer and father of modern surfing, spent a lot of time in Hilo during his life.

The population of Hilo has steadily grown over the years, from just a few hundred residents in the early 19th century to over 45,000 today.
The town has a diverse population, with a mix of Native Hawaiians, Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, and other ethnic groups.

Hilo is located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, overlooking Hilo Bay and surrounded by lush rainforests and volcanic mountains.
The town is known for its black sand beaches, stunning waterfalls, and tropical gardens.

Hilo's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and education.
The town is home to several major employers, including the University of Hawaii at Hilo, the Hilo Medical Center, and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation.

Hilo has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Native Hawaiian, Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese influences.
The town is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year.