The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hilo

Our guide features 12 family-friendly hiking trails around Hilo, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes. You'll find 8 easy trails, 3 moderate, and 1 difficult option, ensuring there's something for every family's adventure level.

Hilo's family-friendly trails showcase a stunning variety of natural beauty. You can expect to encounter lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and serene coastal views. Highlights include the iconic Rainbow Falls, the tranquil Liliuokalani Gardens, and the unique Boiling Pots within Wailuku River State Park. Many trails also offer glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and vibrant tropical flora.

Yes, Hilo offers several easy and relatively flat options perfect for families with young children or strollers. The Liliʻuokalani Gardens Loop is a fantastic choice, offering paved paths through beautiful Japanese gardens. Another great option is the Coconut Island (Mokuola) – Liliuokalani Gardens loop, which provides scenic views and easy terrain.

For families keen on seeing waterfalls, the area around Hilo is ideal. While our guide features routes near Rainbow Falls and the Boiling Pots, you can also explore Akaka Falls State Park, which boasts the impressive 442-foot Akaka Falls and 100-foot Kahuna Falls via a paved loop trail. These are generally accessible and offer stunning views.

Hilo's tropical climate means hiking is enjoyable year-round. However, the drier season from April to October generally offers more consistent sunny weather, which can be more comfortable for families. The wetter season (November to March) brings lush greenery and fuller waterfalls, but also more frequent rain showers, so be prepared with rain gear.

Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails in Hilo are circular, making them convenient for a day out. The Liliʻuokalani Gardens Loop is a perfect example of an easy circular walk. For a slightly longer adventure, consider the Coconut Island (Mokuola) – Liliuokalani Gardens loop, which also offers a pleasant circular experience.

Given Hilo's tropical environment, it's wise to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hats, sunscreen), insect repellent, and rain jackets, as showers can occur unexpectedly. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential. Snacks, a first-aid kit, and binoculars for birdwatching or scenic views will also enhance your family's experience.

Yes, several trails provide beautiful ocean vistas. The Coconut Island (Mokuola) – Liliuokalani Gardens loop offers lovely views of Hilo Bay. Additionally, the Onomea Bay Trail, though not in our guide, is known for its scenic ocean views along the rugged coastline, winding through lush rainforest.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Hilo, with an average score of 3.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's stunning natural beauty, particularly the lush rainforests and impressive waterfalls. The accessibility of many trails and the opportunity to experience Hawaii's unique flora and fauna are also frequently highlighted.

For families with older children seeking a greater challenge, the Liliuokalani Gardens – Rainbow Falls loop from Hilo International Airport is a difficult, longer route that covers 20 km. This trail offers a more extensive exploration of the area's diverse landscapes, including both the gardens and the famous falls, providing a rewarding adventure for experienced young hikers.

Many of the trails, especially those around Hilo Bay and the Liliuokalani Gardens, are conveniently located near downtown Hilo. This means you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and picnic spots where your family can refuel and relax after your hike. Coconut Island (Mokuola) itself is a popular spot for picnics and swimming.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For popular spots like Liliuokalani Gardens and Rainbow Falls, designated parking lots are usually available. For other trails, street parking or smaller lots might be an option. It's always a good idea to check specific trail information beforehand, especially during peak seasons.