Planning a day trip to the Hilo side of the Big Island is the perfect solution. A tour can be arranged with much the same result, but to make air and car reservations, or booking a fly-drive package, will allow the flexibility of sightseeing at your own pace.
Both Hawaiian and Aloha airlines operate the short 50 minute flight from Oahu to Hilo about every 45 minutes or so. It's best to get an early start on a trip of this type. Book a flight to arrive on the Big Island by 8:00am. Reserving seats on the last flight out of Hilo for the day will allow you the flexibility to enjoy a full day as well as the option to return on any earlier flight by calling ahead to change your reservations or by just getting to the airport for the next departure.
Car rental desks are located just across the street at Hilo airport, making the car rental and return process fast and simple. Since cars are rented on a 24 hour basis, there will be no overtime charges to contend with at the end of the day.
Once out of the airport, expect the drive to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to be about 50 minutes. After leaving the airport take the first left to follow the signs to the park entrance. Once at the park entrance, there is a nominal per car fee that must be paid upon entry. The park's extensive visitor's center is the recommended first stop.There is something for everyone at this park. so, choose activities that are both appropriate for your age and fitness level. One of the most interesting experiences at the park is the Thurston lava tube. A well paved and lighted trail makes the short stroll through this natural tunnel safe and easy.
Once finished with the park, it's a relaxing drive to visit one of Hawaii's longest waterfalls. Akaka Falls is located just mauka or mountainside of the Hilo Bayfront Highways along the Hamakua Coast. To get there, return to Hilo passing the airport entrance. Once at the corner of Banyan Drive turn left onto the Hilo Bayfront Highway. The drive to Akaka Falls will take approximately 45 minutes. This drive will take you through Hilo town and up along the coast though agricultural lands and cane fields. Once past Onomea Bay, turn left at Honomu (Hwy #220) and up toward the entrance to the falls. Akaka Falls is located in a tropical gully along a paved trail. Lots of native tropical plants and of course the waterfalls make the area seem so fanciful.
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