This morning, we will take you on a scenic tour of Hilo.  The state of Hawaii's fourth largest city, Hilo is a colorful port town that lies along a lovely crescent bay.  Hilo's charm is a blend of old and new, east and west.  Originally a trading spot for early Hawaiians, Hilo has managed over the years to maintain its small-town charm and reputation as one of the friendliest places in Hawaii.

Located on the windward side of the island, Hilo has an abundance of sun, rain and rich volcanic soil, creating a natural greenhouse effect which makes it lush and green year round.  Hilo’s tropical gardens are legendary and produce a multitude of flowers, although the main cash crops are orchids and antherium’s. We will visit an Orchid
Nursery today. 

Hilo is also famous for its historical museums, waterfalls and beautifully maintained public parks.  We will visit the Lili'uokalani Park and Gardens which covers almost 30 acres on the Waiakea Peninsula. It is named for Queen Lili'uokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii who bequeathed part of park land for public use. Located on Banyan Drive in next to Hilo Bay, it is a an authentic Japanese garden park built in the early 1900's as a memorial to Japanese immigrant sugar plantation workers. These are beautiful grounds for a leisurely stroll with gazebos, fish ponds, bridges, statues and a panoramic view across Hilo Bay.

A short drive from downtown Hilo, up Waianuenue Avenue, takes you to Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots, located on the Wailuku River. Rainbow Falls was named for the beautiful rainbows frequently seen in the waterfall’s mist, especially in the
early morning.