Want to take an early morning stroll, have some extra time before dinner? There are some lovely little parks right in the city of Hilo for your enjoyment. If you have some extra time between your big events of the day or you want to stretch your legs after a long day at the beach why not check them out!
Liliuokalani Gardens, 191 Lihiwai St Hilo, HI 96720
This park is a dream. A Japanese garden with gentle rolling hills, little bridges, and pagodas with the ocean as your backdrop.
There are a great variety of trees and creatures that live here. We spotted little black crabs, many fish in the ponds, and canaries.
The park is 30 acres so walking the paths won’t take you too long. If you want to stay longer bring a blanket to lay on and soak up the wonderful atmosphere for hours.
Coconut Island, Banyan Drive, Hilo, Island of Hawaii, HI 96720
We walked across the street from Liliuokalani Gardens to get to Coconut Island, they are great as a combo package, but this park is fantastic on its own as well! The whole tiny island, also known as Mokuola, is a recreational park with picnic facilities. I loved crossing the pale blue bridge and the views of Hilo.
We walked around the perimeter of the island, which took only a few minutes. We saw kids jumping off the stone tower into the water below.
The beach had calm waters for swimming. There were informational plaques that spoke to the history of the island and its relationship with tsunamis. On one tree you can see the shocking height of where the water levels were during such events.
Coconut Island is a great relaxing family place located just a few steps from Hilo resorts, a beautiful park to explore.
Wailoa River State Recreation Area, Mamalahoa Hwy/19 the left before Pauahi St, Hilo
There are ducks to feed, cool wavy bridges to walk over, and lots of green grass to run around upon in this spacious park. However the major reason I was drawn to this park was the shiny King Kamehameha Statue I saw on the side of the road every time we made our way into Hilo.
The gilded statue is huge and striking, one of four on the Hawaiian Islands. Be sure to read all of the historical information provided.