The Hilo Visitor
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The Hilo Visitor Newsletter is a free resource created specifically for travelers exploring East Hawai’i.
06/19/2026
What’s in season? Mangoes
The best mangoes are the ones in season! Early summer varieties of Hawai‘i mangoes coming from the west side of Hawai‘i Island include Reposas, Hayden’s and Golden Glows.
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06/17/2026
06/16/2026
Every Tuesday at the Palace — Hilo Hula Tuesdays!
Looking for something authentic on your Big Island visit? Every Tuesday at noon, the historic Hilo Palace Theater comes alive with authentic hula performed by local dancers — all on the gorgeous stage of our beloved 100-year-old theater in Downtown Hilo.
06/11/2026
What's in Season? Ice Cream Bean
Ice cream bean are named for their bean-like appearance and creamy dessert flavor. Opening a pod feels like peeling a single lifesaver candy from its stack. The fruits inside look like little cotton candies and taste like vanilla ice cream.
06/06/2026
What's in Season?
Abiu: a sweet fruit native to the amazon, Abiu look like bright yellow plums, and taste lie butterscotch or flan. The best way to eat them is to cut them in half and scoop out the sticky flesh. Abiu is rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A and vitamin B.
06/03/2026
"Visiting Hilo this summer? Don't miss Bon Dance season!
From June through August, Buddhist temples across the Big Island host these beautiful outdoor festivals — think live drumming, circle dancing, yukata, and local food. Visitors are always welcome. No tickets, no dress code, just good vibes and great culture. Check the schedule and plan your visit!
Another Big Island Hidden Gem
You haven't truly visited the Big Island until you've stopped at Tex Drive In. Since 1969, this Honoka'a landmark on the Hamakua Coast has been serving up world-famous malasadas — hand-made fresh, filled with coconut cream, guava, or Bavarian cream, and worth every single bite. Watch them being made right through the bakery window. Pull over. You won't regret it.
Photo Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)
Looking for a day trip from Hilo?
Did you know Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is one of the best places in Hawaiʻi to spot honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) in the wild? These gentle giants often haul themselves onto the warm black sand to bask in the sun. Remember: federal law requires visitors to stay at least 10 feet away but it's better to stay 15-20ft away. Bring your zoom lens — you won't regret it!
What's in Season: Lychee
This is by far our favorite from the soapberry family, which includes longan, lychee and rambutan. Lychee have a red, leathery shell that is easy to peel away to reveal the juicy white flesh inside. The fruit tastes like a mix of melon and pears. It is super sweet like a glass of apple juice. I can eat an entire bucket of Kaimana Lychee!
Check out a local farm tour. See The Hilo Visitor Newsletter for more information.
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