Two excellent walking tours stand out in Hilo, Hawaii.
For a spooky evening, the Ghost Tour ($35) explores haunted sites and eerie landmarks, including the Pacific Tsunami Museum.
History buffs will appreciate the self-guided History and Legends Tour ($15), which covers downtown’s key historic spots through a well-researched smartphone guide.
I especially love the Ghost Tour for its engaging local guides and spine-tingling stories, while the History Tour’s flexibility lets you explore at your own pace.
These memorable walks reveal Hilo’s most fascinating corners and stories.
Let’s look at the details of each tour.
Good To Know
- The Hilo: Walking Ghost Tour offers a 2-hour paranormal exploration of the city’s haunted heritage, with highlights at notable landmarks and encounters with local supernatural entities.
- The Hilo: History and Legends Walking Tour provides a smartphone-guided adventure covering historic sites, local legends, and immigration history at a budget-friendly price of $6.50 per person.
- Both tours offer flexible exploration, allowing participants to pause the experience for breaks or refreshments, engaging at their own pace.
- The Hilo: History and Legends Walking Tour features professional narration, music, and a virtual tour option, making it accessible for diverse audiences.
- The tours cover a wide range of topics, from the spiritual influence of Mauna Kea to the impact of tsunamis on the Hilo community, providing a comprehensive understanding of the city’s unique history and legends.
Hilo: Walking Ghost Tour
The Hilo: Walking Ghost Tour offers visitors a spellbinding exploration of the paranormal history and haunted heritage of Hilo. Priced at $54.02 per person, this 2-hour tour takes a small group of up to 10 participants on a journey through the town’s most haunted sites.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour delves into Hawaiian and Japanese supernatural accounts, shedding light on the spiritual influence of Mauna Kea and the tragic occurrences linked to supernatural forces.
Highlights include photo stops at the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Kress Building, Palace Theatre, and other eerie locations, where guests can encounter local entities such as uhane, aumakua, and akualele.
The tour concludes at Jackie Reys Ohana Grill, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of Hilo’s haunted past.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 8 reviews, the Hilo: Walking Ghost Tour is a must-do experience for those seeking an immersive and enlightening glimpse into the otherworldly side of this enchanting Hawaiian town.
Read our full review: Hilo: Walking Ghost Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hilo: History and Legends Walking Tour With a Smartphone App
Why opt for a traditional walking tour when you can experience Hilo’s history and legends through a smartphone-guided adventure? The Hilo: History and Legends Walking Tour with a Smartphone App offers an engaging and flexible way to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
At just $6.50 per person, this tour allows you to discover Hilo’s historic sites, local legends, and immigration history at your own pace.
The app’s professional narration and music production create an immersive experience, covering topics ranging from Kapu and Hawaiian kings to the impact of tsunamis on the community.
You can pause the tour anytime for breaks or refreshments, and the virtual tour is accessible even after the on-location experience.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, you can book your spot without risk.
All you need is a charged smartphone with the app downloaded to embark on this unique journey through Hilo’s past.
Read our full review: Hilo: History and Legends Walking Tour With a Smartphone App Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
How Long Do the Walking Tours Typically Last?
The walking tours typically last between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the specific tour and the pace of the group. Most tours cover a distance of 1 to 2 miles, allowing participants to explore the area at a leisurely pace.
Is There a Dress Code for the Walking Tours?
There is typically no strict dress code for walking tours, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Participants should dress in layers and bring sun protection if needed. The focus is on exploring the area, not fashion.
Can the Tours Accommodate Large Groups or Families?
Most walking tour providers can accommodate large groups or families. They often offer discounts for larger bookings and may provide private tours for groups. However, it’s best to inquire about group sizes and any special arrangements when booking.
Are the Walking Tours Suitable for All Fitness Levels?
The walking tours are suitable for a variety of fitness levels. They often offer options for more strenuous or leisurely paces, allowing participants to choose the level of activity that best fits their needs.
Do the Tours Provide Any Food or Refreshments?
The walking tours generally don’t provide food or refreshments, but some may offer light snacks or water along the way. Participants should plan to bring their own water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the tour.
Worth The Stay
Hilo offers a variety of engaging walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and supernatural legends. Whether you choose the spooky Ghost Tour or the informative History and Legends Tour, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Hilo’s past. Both options provide an immersive experience and a chance to discover the unique character of this Hawaiian destination.