Table of Contents
Introduction
King Kamehameha Statue Hilo, Hilo is the largest city within Hawaii , much of which has its history and culture concealed by the beauty of the natural environment. Some of the many cultural attractions that you could see in the region include the King Kamehameha Statue which is symbolic of Hawaii’s unification hero. In this article, the author provides a detailed narration of the importance of the statue, its history, and the further heritage of Hilo to give an accurate and insightful guidebook for people who are interested in the history of this area.
The Significance of King Kamehameha
However, to thoroughly organize and plan our day, it’s important we know who exactly King Kamehameha was who gave us an entire day in his honor. Also known as the Great Serpent , Kamehameha I was born around 1758 and his mission in unifying the Hawaiian Islands in 1810 after so many years of civil wars made him a warrior chief. His rule heralded the dawn of this new period in the history of the Hawaiian Islands having had much regional strife and the formulation of certain laws to steer the islands.
His accomplishments ranged posts beyond unification of the Islands, known for leadership, diplomacy, and support of agriculture/ trade. A statue symbolizing King Kamehameha has been erected in his honor: the King Kamehameha Statue.
The King Kamehameha Statue in Hilo
The King Kamehameha Statue is one of many others across the islands of Hawaii and this one is in Hilo. Erected in 1910 this monument of Kamehameha stands in a traditional style as a warrior with a feather cape and spear looking towards the sea, as a reminder of his stewardship of the land and the people.
Some of the landmarks include the sugar cane statue right at the Hawaii County Building entrance and beautiful gardens around them. Certainly, it is a location of interest for both residents and visitors often used for pictures and contemplation. On June 11, the statue is decorated with leis to mark the king Kamehameha Day in Hawai`i and other celebrations all over the islands.
Itinerary Overview
This walking tour will show you the best of Hilo’s local culture and history, originating at the King Kamehameha Statue and expanding from there. Get ready for a delivery of history, delicious food and beautiful sceneries that will make you value Hilo and its histories.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Morning: Arrival in Hilo
When getting to Hilo, accommodation can be obtained at any of the certified hotels in the city some of which include Hilo Hawaiian Hotel or Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel with excellent view of Hilo Bay. Once you’re set up for work or study, head down to Ken’s House of Pancakes, a local restaurant that has been serving delicious food, including breakfast, at its own comfortable portions.
Late Morning: Visit the King Kamehameha Statue
Kingly statues are always compelling to watch as they represent administrative power and control, so your first destination should be the King Kamehameha Statue. Relax and simply wander around taking pictures while listening to explanations of why the statue is important. The following gardens are located nearby the temple and offer the possibility to relax and to get acquainted with Hawaiian traditions.
Afternoon: Lyman Museum and Mission House
After your visit, we recommend that you explore the Lyman Museum and Mission House. This museum provides information about Hawaii history, culture and geology. Some of the items put up are relics from early Hawaiian communities; these are social objects used in activities such as food processing, fashion accessories, and religious ceremonies.
The first stop is the Mission House, the oldest building of Hilo built in 1837 that gives a brief history of the missionaries in Hawaii and their impact on the education and culture of Hawaii. Tours are actually informative; they give you excellent narratives and history behind historic events touching on the town of Hilo.
Evening: Dinner at Hilo Bay Café
Other suggestions are for dinner, try Hilo Bay Café, a restaurant that has been voted most likely to succeed in achieving the farm-to-table model. Food and drinks on the menu are sourced locally by using locally caught fish and farm fresh fruits and vegetables. While at the sea view of Hilo Bay, taste delicious meals prepared with the recipes of Miso-Glazed Opakapaka or Grilled Ahi Steak.
Night: Stroll Along Hilo Bay
After dinner, if you would like to take a rather boring walk, take a walk at Hilo Bay. That fresh oceanic air and the sound produced by the waves of the water make so much noise. Grab a cab and head out to Coconut Island that is close by; watch the sunset on this island and the views of the bay are magnificent.
Day 2: Nature and Culture
Morning: Rainbow Falls
Another local dining can be Pineapples Restaurant offering to have breakfast with tropical food and drinks. Afterward, head to the rainbow falls, one of the natural tourist attraction’s sites in Hilo. The waterfall is really easy to reach and the trail provides excellent views in less than an hour. It’s like if the appropriate weather arrives, it is possible to witness the condensation result in a rainbow!
Late Morning: Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
After that, visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. This is a nineteen acre garden filled with over 2000 plant species and varieties from all over the world and is situated north of Hilo. The tour around the garden includes walkways surrounded by tropical vegetation, water features, and breathtaking sea views. It is a good chance to capture the moments and perfect to appreciate the natural scenery of Hawaii.
Afternoon: Lunch and Imiloa Astronomy Center
If you do decide to take a visit to the botanical garden you should stop by for lunch at the Hilo Fish and Chips joint which features some really tasty fish and chips.
After lunch, proceed to the Imiloa Astronomy Center. This special building revolves around both Hawaiian themes and astronomy as Hawaiian people have used the stars and space for navigation and other purposes for centuries. This center has some touch-activated displays, a celestial observatory, and a very attractive landscape garden.
Evening: Dinner at Suisan Fish Market
In the evening, consider going to Suisan Fish Market for dinner. You will find it popular with the locals. This restaurant will offer you a chance to choose your seafood from a wide range of fresh fish. Try poke bowls, sashimi and grilled fish respectively with a touch of Hawaiian cuisine.
Night: Hilo Farmers Market
If you are in Hilo on Wednesday or Saturday, then the Hilo Farmers Market is something that you should not afford to miss. This market is filled with colorful local food and fresh farmer products, unique craft and jewelry. This is a great opportunity to communicate with the inhabitants, to buy fruits and vegetables, and touch souvenirs.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Farewell
Morning: Explore Liliuokalani Gardens
For the last full day, start your day by visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, this beautifully developed park that has a traditional Japanese garden with pathways, koi pond and waterfalls. Indeed it is the right place for a morning walk or breakfast in the nearest park.
Late Morning: Hilo’s Historic Downtown
Hilo’s Historic Downtown should be your next stop after you are done with exploring the gardens. There are a lot of nice little shops, art galleries and historical buildings in the area. Last but not least you should also visit the Hilo Palace Theatre. It is one of the finest theaters of HILO which is fully Air conditioned and has a very good looking interior and exterior look and always has some or the other program or show or event going on in it.
Afternoon: Lunch at Café 100
Eat at Café 100 where there is the famous Loco Moco that is a traditional food made from rice with a hamburger patty, fried egg and gravy. Despite this, this simple and plain restaurant represents what a typical eatery is like in Hilo.
Post-Lunch: Visit the Pacific Tsunami Museum
Before proceeding with the tour, go to the Pacific Tsunami Museum after lunch. This is a museum which contains historical information about the Pacific ocean tsunami and effects on Hawaiian islands. Read the scientific facts about tsunamis and listen to people’s testimonials. Ocean seems to be a lifeline for Hawaiian people and the museum helps the visitors to grasp the relation.
Evening: Final Dinner and Departure
They include Woody’s Sandwich Bar, Hilo Bay Cafe, Cronin’s Hilo Brewery and Tavern, and Moon and Turtle – a farm to table restaurant which offers creative Hawaii Island cuisine. I love the rather warm, friendly atmosphere of the place which is ideal to make an order in case it is your last meal on earth.
After dinner, before it gets too late, you can take an hour or so walk at the waterfront or get back to the hotel and chill a little before departing.
Conclusion
Hilo and the King Kamehameha Statue show the true essence and identity of Hawaiian culture and tradition. It helps you understand why the image of King Kamehameha is revered and why the communities of Hawaii are so vibrant that includes its natural locations. Below is a packed three-day itinerary that will give you the best of both history, culture as well as adventure while in Hilo. This is the spirit of Hilo and as you leave take with you the stories and experiences you will gain.
For More Routes Info: Click Here.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Hilo?
It is advisable to visit Hilo during the dry season because the climate is cooler and there is less downpour than in other parts of the year/ year. Thus, the district is dominated by green landscapes so tourists are guaranteed rain even during the driest period.
Are there any cultural events in Hilo throughout the year?
Indeed, Hilo provides numerous opportunities for cultural tourism: Hilo Orchid Society Show, Merrie Monarch Festival, numerous farmers’ markets where one can buy local products, listen to music or watch artists creating their paintings and sculptures.
Is the King Kamehameha Statue accessible for people with disabilities?
Indeed, both the King Kamehameha Statue and the associated area are indeed accessible. Hilo has favorable conditions for the disabled and most places of interest offer facilities and services for them.
