Top Adventurous Things To Do in Hilo, HA for Outdoor Lovers
When it comes to the Hawaiian Islands, Hilo could be called understated. In reality though, it’s the perfect base for exploring some of the top adventures in Hawaii! The lush side of the Big Island, filled with a fascinating blend of rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, lava flows, and beaches, also happens to be a haven from the crowds and tourism of other Hawaiian hotspots. With a laid back vibe and local charm, Hilo is the perfect destination for active travels looking for adventurous things to do in the Hawaiian outdoors!
Below are the best adventurous things to do in and around Hilo, ideal for hikers, explorers, and nature lovers.
Table of Contents
The Top Adventurous Things to Do in Hilo, Hawaii:
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Chase Waterfalls
- Hike Through Rainforests
- Explore Underground Caves and Lava Tubes
- Swim Among Black Sand and Lava Flow Beaches
- Enjoy Ocean and Water Adventures
- Visit Unique State Parks
- Explore Mauna Kea
Disclosure: Below are some affiliate links-these are all products I highly recommend. I won’t make any recommendations on this page that I haven’t tested or personally used! Enjoy this guide to the top adventurous things to do in Hilo, Hawaii!
🌋 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (A Must-Do)
Just 45 minutes from Hilo, this iconic park is one of the most unique national parks in the U.S. A chance to explore lava tubes, hike lava fields, and maybe even witness an eruption in person?
>>>Download your own U.S. National Parks Checklist HERE!
Volcano Themed Adventures include:
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Kīlauea Iki and Crater Rim Trail – A hike through rainforest and a solidified lava lake.
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Thurston Lava Tube Trail – Walk through an underground lava tunnel, created by a river of molten lava.
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Chain of Craters Road – Drive through dramatic volcanic landscapes with plenty of otherwordly views.
🔥 Why it’s adventurous: You’re literally walking on some of the Earth’s newest land. Bonus if you can catch an eruption at Kilauea Volcano!
💦 Chase Waterfalls Along the Hāmākua Coast
Hilo isn’t just about volcanoes and lava, it’s also waterfall country. Thanks to frequent rain and steep terrain, massive falls are everywhere.
Top waterfall stops near Hilo:
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ʻAkaka Falls State Park – An easy walk to a 442-foot waterfall
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Rainbow Falls – Easily accessible and fun surroundings
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Boiling Pots at Wailuku River State Park– Waterfalls, churning pools and short, scenic hikes
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ʻUmaʻuma Falls – Three tiered waterfall views and ziplining options
💦 Tip: Wear shoes with traction—paths can be muddy and slick.
🥾 Hike Through Lush Rainforests and Caves
Great hiking options to explore:
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Onomea Bay Trail – Coastal rainforest with ocean views and botanical gardens
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Kaumana Caves – Explore an actual lava tube (bring a headlamp!)
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Liliʻuokalani Gardens – a seaside ornamental Japanese garden with bridges and ponds
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Wailuku River State Park trails – River and waterfall views with short, scenic hiking trails
🌿 Why it’s special: These hikes feel untouched, wild, and connected to the heart of Hilo.
🌊 Explore Black Sand & Lava Flow Beaches
Hilo’s beaches are different. There’s an element of mystery that beg to be explored! Filled with black sand, lava rocks, shallow pools, and local sea turtles.
Outdoor-friendly beaches:
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Richardson Ocean Park – Snorkeling, tide pools, black sand, and sea turtles
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Carlsmith Beach Park – Calm, turquoise waters that are family friendly.
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Onekahakaha Beach Park – small, shallow beach with inlets, pools, and lava rock views.
🐢 Keep an eye out: Green sea turtles often rest on the rocks.
🚣 Ocean & Water Adventures
The Hilo side has calmer, less crowded waters than Kona— family friendly, low key, and great for exploration.
Try:
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Kayaking along Hilo Bay
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Snorkeling at Richardson, Carlsmith, or Leleiwi beach parks
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Stand-up paddleboarding near protected coves on the Hilo coast
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Seasonal whale watching (winter months)
🌊 Best for: Adventurers who prefer quieter, more natural settings.
🌺 Explore Hilo State Parks
Don’t miss:
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Lava Tree State Monument – Lava-molded tree formations
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Hawaiʻi Tropical Bioreserve – Coastal rainforest paths
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Wailuku River State Park – River overlooks and waterfalls
🌸 Why go: These places show how life thrives after lava.
Explore Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea is one of the most impressive volcano summits in the Pacific, and the highest point in all of Hawaii! And there are several ways you can explore it. Whether you want to hike or drive Mauna Kea, this massive volcano is a treat for adventurous travelers.
- Drive up to the summit of Mauna Kea (4WD vehicle required)
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Hike the trail to the summit (be prepared for long distance, altitude, and elevation gain)
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Stargazing or sunrise on Mauna Kea (guided tours offered)
- Check out this complete guide to exploring Mauna Kea safely
🌌 Note: High-altitude activities on Mauna Kea should be planned carefully.
🌴 Final Thoughts: Why Hilo Is Perfect for Adventurers
Hilo isn’t overly polished or resort-heavy—and that’s exactly why outdoor lovers fall in love with it. It’s raw, green, rugged, and full of real adventure. From volcanic craters and lava tubes to waterfalls, rainforests, and rugged coastlines, Hilo offers some of the most authentic outdoor experiences in Hawaiʻi.
If you’re looking for:
✔️ Fewer crowds
✔️ More raw nature
✔️ Big Hawaiian adventures
✔️ Real unfiltered exploration
RELATED ARTICLES:
- The 50 State High Points of the U.S.
- The Diamond Head Hike in Honolulu
- Summiting Mauna Kea: What to Know Before You Go
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