Kailua-Kona, HI, USA to Hilo, HI, USA from $0: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Kailua-Kona to Hilo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$0 by busBest price

127 kmDistance

1h 44m Fastest

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Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kailua-Kona to Hilo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Kailua-Kona to Hilo

The journey from Kailua-Kona to Hilo reveals a stunning contrast, where the sun-soaked beaches of the Kona coast give way to Hilo’s lush rainforests and vibrant waterfalls.

Best Neighbourhoods in Hilo

Hilo's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences, from historic charm to natural beauty.

Downtown Hilo

• Home to local shops and unique restaurants.

• Features historic buildings and vibrant street art.

Liliuokalani Gardens

• Scenic Japanese gardens perfect for leisurely strolls.

• Offers serene views of Hilo Bay.

Hilo Bayfront

• Access to waterfront activities and festivals.

• Great dining options with oceanfront views.

Best Times To Visit Hilo's Attractions

Timing your visits to Hilo's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Rainbow Falls

Early mornings offer the best light and fewer visitors, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Liliuokalani Gardens

Late afternoons are ideal, with cooler temperatures and beautiful sunset views.

Hilo Farmers Market

Visiting on Wednesdays or Saturdays provides the widest selection, avoiding peak hours.

Hilo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Hilo experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with frequent rain and warm temperatures throughout the year. Visiting during the drier months from April to October enhances outdoor activities, while the rain can impact some experiences, so be prepared for the unexpected.

Dining Recommendation in Hilo

Visit Cafe 100 for their famous Loco Moco, a hearty dish that embodies Hilo’s comfort food culture, contrasting with the more upscale dining options found in Kailua-Kona. This casual eatery, often buzzing with locals, offers a true taste of Hawaii’s unique flavors through fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Kailua-Kona - Hilo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kailua-Kona and Hilo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes

Website

https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/getting-around/bus-schedules-and-maps

Bus from Luhia Street @ Loloku Street to Mo'oheau Bus Terminal

Average Duration

2h 49m

Estimated price

$0-0

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Other from Kailua-Kona to Hilo

Average Duration

1h 44m

Estimated price

$14-21

Kailua-Kona to Hilo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Kailua-Kona and Hilo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Kailua-Kona to Hilo, covering a distance of 79 miles. Enjoy the picturesque drive through the diverse landscapes of the Big Island. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs, with car journey prices ranging from $14 to $21 between Kailua-Kona and Hilo. Plan your budget accordingly for this delightful road trip adventure. 🌴 Arrive in Hilo after approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes of driving, ready to discover the charms of this charming town on the eastern side of Hawaii Island. Experience the unique culture and natural beauty that Hilo has to offer.

Average price

$14 - $21

🚆 Traveling from Kailua-Kona to Hilo by train offers a scenic journey through stunning landscapes of Hawaii. With a distance of 119 miles, the trip takes approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes. 🌺 Whether you choose Route 1, 2, 3, or 4, the adventure of train travel from Kailua-Kona to Hilo promises a unique and memorable experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of Hawaii's lush greenery and volcanic terrains.

🚌 The direct bus from Kailua-Kona to Hilo departs from Luhia Street @ Loloku Street and arrives at Mo'oheau Bus Terminal. The journey, operated by Hele-On Bus, takes approximately 2 hours and 49 minutes. 🗺️ Route options for the trip vary in duration, with transfers and distances. Whether taking Route 1, Route 2, Route 3, or Route 4, travelers can expect a scenic journey through the Hawaiian landscapes. 💵 The bus fare for the trip between Hilo and Kailua-Kona is $0, providing an affordable and convenient way to explore the island of Hawaii. Travelers can enjoy the sights and relax on the bus ride between these two charming Hawaiian cities.

Departure Point

Luhia Street @ Loloku Street station

Arrival Point

Mo'oheau Bus Terminal station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Make sure to check the latest schedule for Hele-On Bus at heleonbus.org as services from Kailua-Kona to Hilo depart every four hours and may vary due to holidays or weather conditions.

• When you arrive at Mo'oheau Bus Terminal in Hilo, take a moment to locate the information desk and grab a map of the area; this will help you navigate to local attractions and find taxi or shuttle services easily.

• Remember to bring some snacks or a light meal for the journey, as the bus trip from Kailua-Kona to Hilo takes nearly 3 hours, and food stops might not be available along the route.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kailua-Kona to Hilo.

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The distance between Kailua-Kona and Hilo in the United States is 60 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 78.7 miles. Traveling by car, it generally takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes to reach Kailua-Kona from Hilo. If you prefer to take the bus, the typical travel time from Hilo to Kailua-Kona is about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Kailua-Kona to Hilo is by bus, which costs $1-$2 and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. This option allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenic drive along the coast. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to drive, which takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes and costs around $14-$21 for fuel. Both options provide convenient and efficient transportation between the two cities.

The prices for a bus between Hilo and Kailua-Kona can vary between $1 and $2.

To get from Kailua-Kona to Hilo without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 79 miles and it takes approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes to drive. The prices to rent a car and drive from Kailua-Kona to Hilo vary between $14 and $21.

The best way to travel from Kailua-Kona to Hilo without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and costs around $1 to $2. The bus route provides a convenient and affordable option for travelers who do not have access to a car. Additionally, taking the bus allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views of the island during your journey.

Yes, there is a direct link between Kailua-Kona and Hilo. There is a bus service operated by Hele-On Bus that departs from Luhia Street @ Loloku Street in Kailua-Kona and arrives at Bayfront Park and Ride in Hilo. The bus service runs every four hours, every day, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Hilo. With over 140 hotels to choose from, you will find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Hilo start at $89 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly options, or more unique accommodations such as vacation rentals, you will find a range of choices in Hilo. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to secure the best rates and availability.