Family Adventure in Hilo, Hawaii: Nature & Education Over 3 Days

Day 1: Waterfall Wonders

Hilo, Hawaii

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ken's House of Pancakes

Start your day with a hearty Hawaiian breakfast featuring their famous pancakes, which the whole family will surely love.
Located centrally in Hilo, easy to reach.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rainbow Falls

Experience the stunning Rainbow Falls, known for its mist that creates vibrant rainbows, perfect for family photos.
A quick 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Stroll through this tropical garden showcasing exotic plants and flowers, fostering nature appreciation in children.
20 minutes from Rainbow Falls heading north.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe 100

Grab a local plate lunch featuring a Loco Moco or other Hawaiian specialties that are great for kids.
Head back to Hilo, it's about a 30-minute drive south.
USD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Lyman Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits showcasing Hawaii's history, geology, and culture, offering insight for all ages.
Just a few minutes drive south from Cafe 100.
USD10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Liliuokalani Park and Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon, letting the kids explore the Hawaiian gardens and Japanese bridges.
5-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pineapple's Island Fresh Cuisine

Indulge in a farm-to-table dining experience featuring fresh seafood and a kids' menu.
Close to Liliuokalani Park.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventures in Volcano

Hilo, Hawaii

7:30AM

Breakfast at Sweet Cane Cafe

Enjoy fresh tropical fruit smoothies and pastries made with locally grown ingredients for an energizing start.
Located about 10 minutes from downtown Hilo.
USD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Head to the park where the family can explore unique volcanic landscapes and learn about the geology of Hawaii.
About a 45-minute drive south from breakfast.
USD30 per vehicle, 3 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Kilauea Overlook

Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in breathtaking views of Kilauea Volcano, a memorable spot for families.
Bring lunch from a local deli or the hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Thurston Lava Tube

Explore the incredible lava tube, a great chance for kids to learn about volcanic formation and history.
Short hike from the picnic area.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Chain of Craters Road

Drive and appreciate the geological diversity, stopping for short walks at various points along this scenic route.
Start driving down Chain of Craters Road.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Volcano House Restaurant

End the day with a delightful dinner overlooking the caldera, a unique experience with local dishes.
Located within the Volcano National Park.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Hilo, Hawaii

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

Enjoy a buffet breakfast with scenic ocean views, perfect to kickstart your final day.
Just a quick drive from downtown Hilo.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Pacific Tsunami Museum

Educate the family about tsunamis through interactive exhibits that delve deeply into the history and safety measures.
Located in downtown Hilo, easy to walk to.
USD15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Hilo Farmers Market

Explore local produce and crafts, a fantastic opportunity for kids to engage with the community and learn about local agriculture.
Just a short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hilo Bay Cafe

Relax with a delicious lunch featuring local dishes while enjoying views of Hilo Bay.
About a 5-minute walk from the market.
USD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Imiloa Astronomy Center

Discover the stars and the history of Hawaiian navigation, with interactive exhibits sure to fascinate kids.
A short 10-minute drive from the cafe.
USD15, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Carlsmith Beach Park

End the trip relaxing at the beach park, where kids can swim in the calm waters while enjoying the natural surroundings.
A nice 15-minute drive from the astronomy center.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Fish Hopper

Savor a farewell dinner with fresh seafood and local cuisine before bidding Aloha to beautiful Hilo.
Located near the beach, an easy drive back.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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