Come enjoy the spirit of Aloha in Hilo, HI!

This charming coastal town located on the Big Island of Hawaii lies at the feet of three volcanoes, Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest; Mauna Loa, the world’s most voluminous; and Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano. This quaint and lush city features centuries-old wooden storefronts, beautiful galleries, shops, restaurants and cultural sites — all of which can be explored on foot. This quiet town overlooks the lovely Hilo Bay and has some of the best beaches for surfing, snorkeling and swimming. Since there are so many places to explore below is a quick list of “must sees.”

Keaukaha: This notable beach area, referred to as Lattilo Bay, features some of Hilo’s best snorkeling and surfing. Richardson Beach contains freshwater pools and is ideal place to view sea turtles, bodyboard and scuba dive. Leleiwi Beach, known as Hilo’s best shore dive, contains beautiful coral reefs, sea turtles, spinner dolphins and whales (in winter and spring).

Akaka Falls: This stunning 420 foot drop is located approximately 14 miles north of Hilo. This breathtaking site can be seen after a quick three to five minute walk through lush vegetation and streams.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: Located approximately 20 miles from Hilo, this wonderland of active volcanoes is guaranteed to be the “hot spot” of your Hawaiian stay. This fascinating wonderland of active volcanoes features the best hiking on the island and also includes a lush rainforest to explore.

Other points of interest include:

Hilo Farmer’s Market
Hilo Art Galleries
East Hawaii Cultural Center
Lyman Museum and House

April 4-10: Merrie Monarch Festival. Watch one of Hawaii’s most prestigious hula competitions, featuring group and solo contests. Tickets sell out fast, but the festival is one of the great events on the Big Island. Edith Kanakaole Stadium, Hilo. (808-935-9168; www.merriemonarchfestival.org)

Bring your family and stay in a beautiful Hilo Vacation Rental.

Hilo Vacation Rentals: House for sale

Many of our guests have looked for real estate while staying at the Hilo vacation rentals. So many people fall in love with the Hilo area and the friendly local folks. Over the years, many have shopped and several have purchased land, houses, and condos. Since we're not Realtors, we refer guests to local realtors at several agencies in town. One of our neighbors in Hawaiian Paradise Park has an oceanfront home for sale by owner. Her house is not listed on the Hawaii MLS, but it is available. It is essentially a new construction as they tore the old house down to the studs, and replaced everything from the bottom up. Those interested in Hilo Hawaii real estate can see this outstanding oceanfront house online at http://www.nenesnest.com. As one of our guests from California pointed out, where else in the US can people buy nice oceanfront houses on 1/2 acre parcels for less than $1,000.000? Values abound in east Hawaii.

Beautiful Hilo Hawaii

Once again another beautiful day in paradise. With beautiful weather in the 70's and clear skies all around it has been a great week. I'll write again soon.

A post from one of our recent guests

We had a great time last week at your Hilo house. It was lovely. And we were pleasantly surprised by the outstanding snorkeling across the street at Richadson's. Everyone said Kona had the best snorkeling, but we found Richardson's to be just as good. And the climate - marvelous. Even with daily morning showers, it was great. My other rave about Hilo is that it is so NOT touristy (for Hawaii). The tropical rainforest climate is far preferable to the hot sunny climate of Kona. And the locals are so incredibly friendly. What a great place to vacation.

Well another beautiful day in Hilo Hawaii. Welcome to the Hilo Vacation Rentals Blog. I hope that you will come here to find out not only information about local vacation rentals but also to see news and information about Hilo. I look forward to guiding you to the best Hilo has to offer. Live Aloha :)