Hale Huna Kai - House of Sea Spray Call for Information 808.966.8369 Mauna Kea looming over Hilo Bayfront Hilo is the town time forgot, with its false-front stores, covered sidewalks, and small town charm. Life moves at a slow, friendly pace. Shopping in downtown Hilo is an international adventure, free of "tourist traps". Pick up a walking tour map and just stroll around Old Hilo Town. Refresh yourself with a paper cone of "Shave Ice" in some exotic flavor (be real "local", order the li hing mui shave ice). See how many old hitching rings you can spot, and figure out why Hilo's sidewalks are black instead of gray. Hilo is an old sugar town and houses Hawaii’s largest historic core of buildings. Dating back to the turn of the century, the buildings showcase Hawaii’s unique architecture, with a splash of western, Art Deco and Renaissance Revival influences. Hilo flows down the lower slopes of Mauna Kea mountain of the world-famous astronomical observatories of seven major nations. The town straddles a tranquil river with waterfalls and lush vegetation. Don’t let the fact that it is the “rainiest city in the United States” distract you. Most rainfall is in the evening. When the sun is shining, Hilo is a lush, tropical oasis. Although Hilo is Hawaii’s second largest city (ranked second in size and population to Honolulu), it is a community. It has an old-fashioned comfortable feel. Hilo has been described by some as “Honolulu before the jets came in.” It is a great place to learn about old Hawaii and the environmental and cultural forces that shaped it. Visit the many unique and one of a kind shops featuring Hawaiiana, vintage island treasures, local crafts, and artwork. Shop for distinctive designer dresses and shirts, and check out the famous Hilo Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, featuring tropical fruits, flowers, and more. Then stop off for a bite to eat at one of the more than 4 dozen restaurants nestled in downtown Hilo. Hilo town - full of charm.