Hilo is Big Islands main Town
25182
Travel & Leisure
Jun 16, 2007
Hilo is Big Islands main Town
Hilo lies on the east coast of the Island of Hawaii in the heart of Hilo Bay, whose crescent shape has earned it the name Crescent moon Bay. The settlement of Hilo was founded in the same year that Captain Cook arrived at the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. Its population of 43,500 makes Hilo the second largest town in the State of Hawaii. One third of Big Islands inhabitants live here. Hilo is Big Islands main town and an important centre of agriculture, such as sugar cane and flowers, as well as a significant port. Two disastrous tsunamis in 1946 and 1960 destroyed great parts of the town. Most of the government offices, which were situated near the coast, were rebuilt in safer parts of Hilo. As coastal protection, several grassed areas for walking and leisure activities were laid in their place. The city is home to the University of Hilo, as well as the Merrier Monarch Festival, a week long celebration of ancient and modern hula, which takes place each year in the week following Easter. Hilo has a large tourism sector, as is prevalent across the whole island. Hilo, as the second largest city in the state of Hawaii, is home to shopping centres, movie theatres, hotels, restaurants and a developed downtown area. Hilos rainy climate does not make it a particularly favourite haunt for tourists. However, its well preserved Old Town, with buildings dating from 1870, is well worth exploring. Thanks to the heavy levels of rainfall a unique display of flowers, particularly orchids, can be admired in the gardens and surroundings of Hilo. Hilo is a suitable starting point for exploring the various places of interest nearby such as the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, only 32 miles away, several waterfalls and tropical rainforests. The town cannot be recommended to those seeking a bathing resort. The few beaches are mainly man made beach parks which cannot be compared to the natural sandy beaches found elsewhere on the island. As public transportation on the Island is minimal, virtually all visitors rent a vehicle from one of the many rental agencies upon arriving at Hilo International Airport. As an alternative, taxis are also available at the airport though renting a car is almost always more practical. The counties bus system does not serve Hilo International Airport. Its a good idea to make car reservations in advance, as special events or active conditions at the Volcanoes National Park can quickly deplete the supply of available vehicles.
Douglas Scott works for The Rental Car Hire Specialist. and is a free lance writer for The Hilo Rental Site
Write a Review
Add to My Favorite
Refer it to Friend
Report Article
Other links at Travel & Leisure
Whether you are traveling internationally or domestically there are some things you can do to make your trip faster, easier and more safe.
Category:
Peru is located on the upper west coast of South America. If you are considerg Peru as a travel destation, followg is an overview of the country. Overview of Peru for Travelers Historically, Peru was the location of the domant early cultures
Category:
Everybody would want to have a smooth check in without having the need to either leave some prohibited items. Here are a few tips to make your travel a leisurely one.
Category:
Whether you are a party person or rather prefer a couple of drinks in a relaxed bar Munich has something to offer for everyone.
Category:
Algeria is a vast country offering tourists a wide selection of attractions and activities.
Category:
Site Sponsor
Directory Statistics
Articles: 68309
Categories: 501
Yahoo Entertainment
