Our next stop on our Hawaii circumnavigation was Hilo.
It was too early to check into our hotel, so we explored the downtown area shops, farmer’s market and restaurants. We found almost any type of food in the area. We picked Lucy’s Taqueria for lunch; I was thrilled to find decent Mexican cuisine in Hawaii. I also found a couple of yoga studios and bought some shorts and a top at a clothing store.
Afterward we went to Akaka Falls, which is about 15 miles outside Hilo. The tranquil garden was a treat to walk through. We were surrounded in color and plants, but never by people.
We also went to Rainbow Falls. The waterfalls were flowing and the sun was shining. In fact, the temperatures were above normal every day on our Big Island vacation.
It’s just a short walk to the top of the waterfall. We paused to admire the banyan tree on the way.
Next we walked across the street to Rainbow Falls Cafe for a beverage. I opted for a lilikoi-flavored soda while Graham chose an iced white mocha coffee. We sipped our drinks on the patio for a while.
Hilo Hawaiian, adjacent to the bay, is one of the few hotels in the town, and we were told it’s the best option. The rooms were recently renovated and comfortable. Graham requested a room with a view so he could see the water and the colors at sunset. Mauna Kea’s summit is visible in the background.
I had time for yoga at Yoga Centered. It was an early evening class that focused on doing less. The instructor asked us to put in 75 percent effort into every pose. It was a drastic change from the classes I am used to in Phoenix, and I appreciated that.
In the morning, Graham watched the cruise ship come in.
We spent more time in the downtown area before departing for our next destination.
And that was our short but sweet visit. See you soon, Hilo!