Travel Budget for Hilo Visit Hilo on a Budget or Travel in Style

Hilo, Hawaii, United States of America

Hilo is a laid back town known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Hilo and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty.

How much does it cost to travel to Hilo?

You should plan to spend around $222 per day on your vacation in Hilo. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $121 on meals
  • $25 on local transportation
  • $142 on hotels

A one week trip to Hilo for two people costs, on average, $3,108. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $222
  • One Week Per person
    $1,554
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,108
  • One Month Per person
    $6,660
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,108
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,216
  • One Month For a couple
    $13,320
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hilo cost?

A one week trip to Hilo usually costs around $1,554 for one person and $3,108 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hilo on average costs around $3,108 for one person and $6,216 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hilo will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hilo on average costs around $6,660 for one person and $13,320 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Hilo expensive to visit?

Hilo is a terrific town that captivates many with its charm, appealing to a wide range of travel styles and budgets. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

Hilo can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $91 per day, mid-range travelers spend $222 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $511 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Hilo.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Hilo is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Lancaster or Montreal.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hilo Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Hilo?

The average Hilo trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hilo travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Hilo cost?

Hilo on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$30 $71 $147
Local Transportation 1 $10 $25 $63
Food 2 $49 $121 $294
Entertainment 1 $14 $32 $62
Alcohol 2 $2-6 $5-15 $11-34

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Hilo on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $91 per day that backpackers typically manage.

Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.

Thankfully, Hilo features plenty of hostels, such as Howzit Hostels Hawaii. At hostels like this, you can find economical dorm beds and a great social atmosphere, although amenities might be quite sparse. Visitors to Hilo often find food to be a highlight, but budget travelers may only indulge in street food or cook their own meals in hostels, missing some of the area's best culinary experiences.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Hilo. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $222 per person, per day.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

If you envision a trip that covers everything with high-end amenities and top-tier service, be ready for a daily expense near $511. Enjoying nicer hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, participating in extravagant activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the town will require a premium budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Tour: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Eco Tour - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Hilo

Hilo offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $164, but during peak winter season, they can average $306. Prices range from $103 to $588, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Hilo for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $142. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $71 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $71
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $142

Hotels in Hilo

Looking for a hotel in Hilo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Hilo

The average hotel room price in Hilo based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $164 in the low season and $306 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Hilo include:

  • Old Hawaiian Bed and Breakfast starting at $140
  • Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast starting at $238
  • The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls starting at $92
  • Hawaiian Ohana Home starting at $81
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Hilo

As a family-friendly town, Hilo is perfect for traveling with kids, so you may want to find an apartment with more room.

Many visitors stay in Hilo for a week, and if you're here for a longer time, renting a place with a kitchen could be a smart way to handle your own meals.

By avoiding the peak winter season and traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, you will be able to save on accommodation and avoid heavy tourist crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Hilo

Unfortunately, Hilo does not provide a solid public transit network. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Some regions of Hilo are walkable, which can enhance your sightseeing experience. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (moderate)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $25 per person, per day, on local transportation in Hilo. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Hilo is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $25

Transportation Tips

Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.

A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Private Transfer From Hotels in Kailua-Kona to Kona International Airport for $70 details
  • Private Transfer from Kona Airport (KOA) to Kailua Kona Port for $87 details
  • Private Transfer From Kona International Airport to Hotels in Waikoloa & Waimea for $95 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Hilo
How much does it cost to go to Hilo? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Hilo
The price of renting a car in Hilo will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Hilo

The food in Hilo is delightful, and it's important to take the time to experience all the local tastes. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Hilo can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Hilo is $121 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $121

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Hilo is around $121 ($121) per person, with previous travelers spending from $49 to $294. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Hilo are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $12 to $36
  • Lunch: $18 to $48
  • Dinner: $36 to $85
  • Coffee: $10
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $18

Hilo offers a handful of local specialties. The town is particularly famous for its locally-made ice cream. It's available at several places around town including Hilo Homemade Ice Cream at 41 Waianuenue Avenue. If you're looking to grab a quick and cheap bite to eat then head to Hilo Farmer's Market, which is located on the corner of Samehameha Avenue and Mamo Street. They have a wide variety of tropical fruit.

Other budget options around town include Blane's Drive Inn, Hilo Coffee Mill, Cafe 100, Kuhio Grille, Suisan, Ken's House of Pancakes, and Ocean Sushi Deli. If you're looking to splurge, then there are a handful of high end restaurants that offer excellent fresh seafood and entrees.

Food & Dining Tips

If you're dining out with children, try to find restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since those meals tend to be cheaper. Remember, some places may not highlight their kids' options, so don't forget to ask your waiter first.

Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.

Pack a picnic to save cash and enjoy the views. Find a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful location for your meal.

Carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying drinks everywhere you go. It's good for the earth, too.

Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.

If you want to experience the culture in Hilo, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay for $189 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Hilo

It's understandable that travelers choose Hilo, as it is famous for hiking, food, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Hilo typically cost an average of $32 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $32

There are a handful of sites around the town of Hilo, although most visitors prefer to get out of town and explore the other area's along the eastern side of the Big Island. Popular museums in town include the Pacific Tsunami Museum, the Hilo Art Museum, and the Lyman House Museum. Other landmarks include the King Kamehameha Statue and Naha Stone. Also make sure you visit Lili'uokalani Gardens. This authentic Japanese garden was built in the early 1900s and is quite beautiful. Rainbow Falls is a good alternative to Akaka Falls. You are most likely to see the rainbow early in the day.



There is no shortage of activities in and around Hilo. Surfing is a big part of the culture around town. You can rent boards from Orchidland Surf. If you're interested in swimming then head to Four Mile, which is a popular swimming spot, although there is not a beach. Other activities include helicopter tours of the area and visiting the Kaumana caves.

Sightseeing Tips

Hiking:
The hiking around Hilo offers breathtaking views. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Hilo. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Kaimana Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Adventure for $155 details
  • Offshore Safari Adventure in Kona with Underwater Photos for $180 details
  • Private Electric Bike Tour with Lava Hike in Pāhoa for $88 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Hilo

The nightlife in Hilo is fairly quiet and relaxed. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $10 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Hilo per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $10
Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.



Travel cost data last updated: Dec 29, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Hilo

  • In peak season during winter, expect to see higher prices and an influx of visitors in the town. To save some cash and avoid the crowds, think about visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • By opting for a more leisurely travel pace, you can save money while enjoying the area's beauty. If you try to squeeze too many activities into your schedule, expenses can climb quickly. On the other hand, slowing down often allows for a more enjoyable and cost-effective experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Public transportation is quite scarce in Hilo. It may be beneficial to rent a car or arrange a form of transport in advance, like a tour. Keep in mind that this could impact your budget in other ways.
  • There aren't a lot of hostel options in Hilo, so if you're thinking of saving money in a dorm, you might need to adjust your travel plans. A cheap hotel or apartment rental may be a better choice.
Traveling in Hilo
Hilo Hawaii Volcano National Park, near Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo is a town on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is also the county seat and largest city in Hawaii County, so many people use it as the starting point to explore the eastern half of the island. The town has a population of just over 40,000 people. It looks out over Hilo Bay and most of the town's development is between Hilo Bay and Waiakea-Uka near the active volcano of Mauna Loa. Hilo is where you will find the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corportation and Hilo International Airport.

The town's climate is tropical rainforest. There is a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. It is located on the eastern, or windward side of the Big Island so it is the third wettest city in the United States. There are an average of 126 inches of rain annually and precipitation occurs on 275 days a year. The monthly mean temperature is 71 degrees Fahrenheit in January and 76 degrees Fahrenheit in August.



Neighborhoods & Around

Downtown Hilo has plenty of shopping opportunities and restaurants, particularly in the Bayfront area. The farmer's market is also located downtown. The downtown area is pedestrian friendly and you can spend a decent amount of time exploring the area.

If you're looking for retail shopping then head to Prince Kuhio Plaza. It is best to have a car as this is not a pedestrian friendly area.

If you want to enjoy the ocean then Richardson's Ocean Park is a great place to visit. It's located at the end of Kalanianaole (Highway 19). This is a popular place with locals for family cookouts. It's also a great place to snorkel or relax on the beach.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.