The Big Island’s largest city and county seat is Hilo. Hilo has a more “old world” flavor and the pace of life here is definitely laid back. While does not have the heavy tourist presence as does the Kona side, it does (at least at the present time) have the only indoor shopping mall and a large campus of the University of Hawaii here. The warm trade winds blow from northeast to the southwest in the islands. When the moist air hits the volcanic mountain, it cools and creates clouds. Since Hilo lies on the windward side of the island, this makes the Hilo side the wetter side of the island. Hilo gets frequent rain showers with an annual rainfall of approximately 140 inches of rain per year. The tropical vegetation grows wild and lush everywhere on this side of the island. You will also see breathtaking beautiful waterfalls that flow pretty much all year long on this side of the island. Just to show how big the Island of Hawaii actually is, most residents of Hilo don't frequent the other side of the island. They like it just fine where they are and have everything they need. Personally I like both sides of the island as it gives you a different slice of paradise. Welcome to Hilo!
