Hilo HI

Hilo, HI – A haven of lush rainforests, volcanic wonders, and island charm, Hilo captures the heart of the Big Island with its natural beauty and relaxed pace of life. From wandering through blooming gardens to marveling at lava flows, this peaceful paradise blends Hawaiian heritage with unforgettable scenery. Whether you're dipping into waterfalls or exploring black sand beaches, Hilo invites you to slow down and embrace aloha in every moment.

• Population: ~45,000
• Weather: Warm and humid year-round (65–85°F); frequent rainfall, especially during winter and spring.
• Places To Visit: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls State Park, Liliuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls, Imiloa Astronomy Center.
• Top Activities: Hiking through lava tubes, visiting orchid farms, strolling the Hilo Farmers Market, paddleboarding in Hilo Bay, touring local museums.
• Famous Food: Fresh poke bowls, loco moco, malasadas, plate lunches, and shave ice at Wilson’s by the Bay.

Hilo, Hawaii, is a scenic city on the Big Island known for its natural beauty, tourism, and strong public sector employment. As the largest settlement on the island’s eastern side, Hilo also plays a central role in education and healthcare for the region. Below are some of the top jobs in Hilo, HI.

Hilo, Hawaii, offers a relaxed, friendly vibe that makes it perfect for students looking to unwind after class. Whether you're into nature, tasty local treats, or laid-back activities with friends, Hilo has everything you need to chill, relax, and have fun.

Coconut Island (Moku Ola) – Close to downtown, Coconut Island is a peaceful and scenic spot. Bring friends for a picnic, swim, jump off the tower into the bay, or simply take in the stunning views of Mauna Kea and Hilo Bay.

Rainbow Falls – Need a break from the books? Rainbow Falls is just minutes away from town. It's the perfect spot for snapping Instagram-worthy photos, enjoying lush greenery, and getting refreshed by nature's beauty.

Big Island Candies – Stop by this popular local treat shop for delicious chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, shortbread cookies, and all sorts of tasty snacks, great for treating yourself or sharing with friends.

Hilo Farmers Market – Open every day—but especially lively on Wednesdays and Saturdays—this colorful market is ideal for sampling fresh local fruits, island snacks, and handmade crafts. Grab lunch with friends, try exotic fruit smoothies, or pick up souvenirs.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory – Visit this fun factory just outside of Hilo to see macadamia nuts being processed, taste free samples, and enjoy delicious ice cream. An excellent, relaxed getaway from studies.

Kaumana Caves Park – An exciting yet accessible lava tube perfect for adventurous students. Bring a flashlight, wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty, and explore hidden caves and lava formations with your crew.

Richardson Ocean Park – Ideal for relaxing on the beach, swimming, snorkeling, and spotting turtles. Richardson’s is popular among students for its easy-going atmosphere and shaded areas perfect for casual hang-outs.

Palace Theater – Located right in downtown Hilo, the historic Palace Theater offers affordable movie nights, concerts, comedy shows, and special events perfect for a chill evening out with friends.

Wailoa River State Recreation Area – Beautiful and centrally located, this spacious park has walking paths, picnic spots, and green, open space that's great for hanging out, tossing a Frisbee, or just kicking back on sunny afternoons.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful day by the ocean or tasty local eats with friends, Hilo offers plenty of easygoing spots to unwind and have a memorable time.

Hilo, Hawaii, is known for its lush landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to education. This scenic city on the Big Island offers a mix of public and private institutions that prepare students for success in diverse fields such as environmental science, Hawaiian studies, nursing, and liberal arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Hilo

University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo – A well-respected public university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in fields such as marine biology, Hawaiian language, and astronomy. As part of the University of Hawaiʻi system, it promotes research and cultural preservation.

Hawaiʻi Community College – Located near the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, this two-year college offers associate degrees and certificates across fields like culinary arts, nursing, and liberal arts. It is known for workforce training and transfer pathways to UH Hilo.

UH Hilo College of Pharmacy (Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy) – Although a specialized college within UH Hilo, it stands out for producing skilled pharmacists serving across Hawaii and the Pacific region. It emphasizes community-focused healthcare education.

Hilo Education Center (satellite of Windward Community College) – This outreach center provides select courses and adult education services, supporting continuing education and workforce development in East Hawaiʻi.

Hawaiʻi P-20 Partnerships for Education (Hilo Extension) – While not a traditional college, this public initiative housed in part within local education offices helps students transition smoothly from high school into college, strengthening public education pathways in Hilo.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Hilo

Pacific Bible College (Hilo campus) – A small Christian institution providing faith-based education and degree programs in Christian ministry and counseling. It supports spiritual and leadership development in the local community.

Argosy University (formerly in Hilo) – Though now closed, Argosy once provided degree programs in psychology and business, offering career-oriented education to working adults in Hilo.

Hawaii Institute of Nursing (Private Vocational School) – A private institution offering practical nursing programs. It focuses on hands-on clinical training and serves as a pathway into the healthcare field in Hawaiʻi.

Hilo International Christian College (Private Bible School) – A small faith-based college committed to biblical instruction and missionary training. Students often pursue church service and outreach roles.

Zion Christian School (Post-secondary Certificate Programs) – Though primarily a K-12 institution, Zion Christian School occasionally offers adult education and certificate-level programs in biblical studies, making it a unique spiritual and educational hub in Hilo.

Hilo, HI, located on the Big Island, offers quality educational options supported by dedicated educators and engaged communities. Whether you're seeking public or private high schools, Hilo features schools that focus on academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and preparing students for future success.

Top Public High Schools in Hilo, HI

• Hilo High School – One of the oldest public schools in Hawaii, Hilo High offers a wide range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement courses and career technical education. It has a strong tradition of student leadership and community involvement.
• Waiakea High School – Recognized for its diverse curriculum and strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opportunities. Waiakea also features language immersion programs and active extracurricular activities.
• Ka ʻUmeke Kāʻeo Public Charter School – A culturally-focused charter school that integrates Hawaiian language, culture, and traditions into its high school curriculum. It emphasizes environmental education and social responsibility.
• Hālau Kū Mana Public Charter School (Serving Hilo Students) – Though primarily based in O‘ahu, this school has a virtual option for students across Hawaii, including Hilo. It provides project-based learning centered on place-based education and Hawaiian values.
• Connections Public Charter School – An innovative school focusing on hands-on learning and environmental science. It offers small class sizes, making it ideal for students who thrive in personalized settings.

Top Private High Schools in Hilo, HI

• Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘i Campus – A top-tier private school offering comprehensive academics, cultural education, and college preparation. Exclusively for Native Hawaiian students, it blends tradition and innovation for holistic student growth.
• St. Joseph School – A private Catholic school with a focus on academic excellence, moral development, and community service. It offers a college-prep curriculum and individualized support in a close-knit environment.
• Parker School (Near Hilo in Waimea) – Though located in Waimea, Parker regularly serves students from East Hawaii. Known for small class sizes, Parker School emphasizes critical thinking, arts, and advanced academics.
• Amy B.H. Greenwell Charter School (Private Options Available in Collaboration) – Offers hybrid and alternative education pathways for high school students interested in Hawaiian cultural studies and sustainability.
• Christian Liberty Academy – A faith-based school that provides a supportive environment and strong academic programs for students from elementary through high school levels. It features flexible tuition options and a commitment to values-based education.

Hilo, Hawaii is a beautiful town on the Big Island known for its lush landscapes, active volcanoes, and laid-back island lifestyle. Unlike bigger mainland cities, Hilo does not have professional sports teams in the major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS. However, Hawaii has a deep appreciation for sports and a strong sports culture, especially at the amateur and collegiate levels. Many local athletes have gone on to play professionally, and sports remain a favorite form of recreation throughout the state.

🏈 Football – No Professional Teams, But Strong Local Support

• University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors – While not located in Hilo, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in Honolulu has a Division I football team that is widely followed across the islands. The Rainbow Warriors play in the Mountain West Conference and have a loyal fan base, including many residents of Hilo.
• Local High School Football – High school football is very popular in Hilo. Teams like the Hilo High Vikings are known for their talent and competitive spirit. Many players from local schools earn scholarships and go on to play in college and the NFL.

🏀 Basketball – College and Amateur Play

• University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Vulcans (UH Hilo) – The UH Hilo Vulcans compete in NCAA Division II sports, including basketball. They play in the Pacific West Conference and give local athletes the chance to compete at a high level while staying in Hawaii.
• Community Leagues – Hilo has several local and youth basketball leagues that keep the sport active in the area. These programs serve as great opportunities for kids and adults alike to enjoy organized play.

⚾ Baseball – Focus on Development and Tradition

• Hilo’s Baseball Heritage – Baseball has long been a favorite pastime in Hilo. The area produces strong talent, with youth playing in Little League and American Legion baseball programs. Hilo once hosted the Hawaii Stars, a semi-professional team in the now-defunct Pacific Association.
• Notable Athletes – Hawaii has produced MLB players such as Kolten Wong and Kurt Suzuki, and many aspiring players from Hilo follow in their footsteps by competing regionally and nationally.

🏐 Volleyball and Other Popular Sports

• Volleyball in Hawaii – Volleyball is an extremely popular sport across Hawaii and especially in Hilo. Both men’s and women’s teams at the high school and college levels attract strong followings.
• Other Sports – Soccer, canoe paddling, judo, and surfing are also widely enjoyed in Hilo. While there are no pro leagues, the local culture values athleticism and community events.

Though Hilo does not have professional sports teams like those in Los Angeles or other major mainland cities, it offers a vibrant sports scene built on community pride and the development of local talent. From watching the Vulcans play to cheering on high school teams, sports remain an important and celebrated part of life in Hilo, Hawaii.

Hilo, HI is a charming town on the Big Island that captures the true spirit of Hawaii. With its rich culture, lush landscapes, and unique attractions, Hilo is full of surprises. Here are some fun facts about this beautiful Hawaiian city:

1. Rainiest City in the U.S. – Hilo gets about 130 inches of rain per year, making it one of the wettest cities in America.
2. Home to the World's Largest Mauna Kea Telescope – The Mauna Kea Observatories near Hilo host the world's most powerful telescopes for deep space observation.
3. A City of Waterfalls – Hilo is surrounded by stunning waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, each with their own legends.
4. A Tsunami Survivor – Hilo was hit by major tsunamis in 1946 and 1960, which reshaped the downtown and led to better warning systems worldwide.
5. Hawaiian Culture Alive – Hilo is a hub of traditional Hawaiian culture, home to the Merrie Monarch Festival, the world’s most prestigious hula competition.
6. Big Island Candy Starts Here – The famous Big Island Candies factory and shop, known for its shortbread cookies and chocolate, is located in Hilo.
7. Two Volcanoes Nearby – Hilo lies between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the most massive volcanoes in the world.
8. Lush Tropical Gardens – Hilo is home to Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the largest authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan.
9. Historic Farmers Market – The Hilo Farmers Market is famous for its fresh tropical fruits, handmade crafts, and local flair, open year-round.
10. Educational Hub – Hilo has a branch of the University of Hawai‘i, known for its strong marine science and astronomy programs.