 |
|
|
Exploring In and Around Hilo |
|
|
|
Exploring In and Around Hilo
|
One of the good things about visiting the Big Island of Hawaii is the diversity of this island giant. Hilo, located on the dense tropical side of the island, is a gorgeous beauty of “old world” Hawaii mixed with more contemporary “modern city” touches. There are wonderful sights to see in this area which are definitely worth a visit.
Although the gentle trade wind breezes and ample rainfall occurring on this side of the island provide the lush beauty, Hilo has some good examples of the more difficult side of island life. As you visit downtown Hilo, you are reminded of the devastating tsunamis of 1946 and 1960 which claimed the lives of over 220 people and destroyed many parts of the downtown area. On April 1, 1946, an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands brought a giant 25 foot tsunami wave down on the downtown area of Hilo claiming 159 lives and wiping out over 1,300 homes and downtown businesses. Fourteen years later, on May 22, 1960, a 35 foot wave caused by an earthquake of the coast of Chili again crashed down on the downtown area of Hilo killing another 61 people and causing millions of dollars of property damage. The Pacific Tsunami Museum on Kamehameha Avenue is a great place to learn about these historic tragedies as well as learn about Tsunami monitoring efforts in the islands.
|
| |
Just past the Hilo Public Library on Waianuenue lies the famous Naha Stone, estimated at 7,000 pounds. Legend has it that at the age of 14, Kamehameha risked death to move this massive stone to claim his destiny as king of the islands. The Lymon Museum is also worth a visit while in the downtown area. Near the University of Hawaii campus lies the Imiloa Astronomy Center. This planetarium has excellent exhibits and is also worth a visit while in Hilo. Another good place to visit while in Hilo is the Hilo Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens. This 12 acre rainforest habitat and botanical gardens houses animals, reptiles, butterflies and birds many of which are unique to the Hawaiian Islands.
|
| |
As a result of the frequent rainfall and lush tropical foliage, the Hilo area is home to several beautiful waterfalls. Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls and Pe’ep’e Falls with the bowl shaped water pools called Boiling pots. On Kaumana Drive which leads to Saddle Road, are found the Kaumana Caves. These lava tubes make for some fun exploring but be sure to bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. Another not to be missed Hilo sight is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens located just north of town. The Nani Mau Gardens is also a beautiful stop on your trip north.
|
| |
| Just to the south of Hilo on Hwy 11, is the Mauna Loa Visitor Center. You can see the processing plant and sample Hawaiian macadamia nuts and candies at the Visitor Center store. Head further south to visit the Lava Tree State park and a large selection of pools and warm springs along the southeastern coast. Warmed by geothermal activity, these pools are fun swimming holes and favorite spots of locals and visitors alike. As you drive to the end of Hwy 137, you can see the area where the lava flowed across the road during the 1990 eruption. Plan to spend some time exploring this area while in Hilo and you won’t be disappointed. |
|
© 2010 Southwest Training Development all rights reserved |
|
|
|
