Unique, educational, cultural, personal, enriching and lots of fun! Visit Kahua Ranch and learn about the 8,500-acre working cattle ranch and paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) lifestyle. Pitch horseshoes, try branding, learn to lasso, cook more around the campfire and gaze at the stars.
Kilauea Visitor Center
Begin your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at the Kilauea Visitor Center where families can watch an hourly film as an introduction to the park. Ranger talks are offered and ranger-guided activities can be scheduled. Pick up maps and learn about the park's hikes here.
Onekahaka Beach Park is a favorite for keiki (children). This small, shallow, sand-bottomed ocean pool is one of the safest swimming areas along the Hilo coast, with tide pools and inlets. Although there's no actual beach, this park is a perfect place to play and picnic, with pavilions, restrooms and lovely views of Hilo Bay.
Voyage Through Space
Stop by the Imoloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii for a unique experience. Located on a nine-acre campus above the University of Hawaii at Hilo, the center explores the connections between Hawaiian cultural traditions and the science of astronomy. Imoloa features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, group tours, a gift shop, cafe and plenty of events throughout the year.
Mokupapapa
Visit the Discovery Center for Hawaii's Remote Coral Reefs to experience educational and interactive exhibits. The Center also features a 2,500 gallon aquarium.
Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo
This is the only natural tropical rain forest zoo in the United States. Check out their collection of exotic animals, including Namaste, a white Bengal tiger.
