Authentic Hawaii: New nonstop flights take you to the heart of Hilo

Ready to get off the beaten tourist track on your next Hawaiian adventure? Continental/United Airlines has just made it that much easier with a new non-stop flight to Hilo on the Big Island.

Instead of flying into Kona International Airport and driving 2.5 hours to Hilo, there will be daily direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). A huge timesaver!

It all begins June 9th, so start booking your tickets now.

What makes Hilo so appealing?

Instead of grand five-start resorts, you can expect quaint inns, bed & breakfasts, family-friendly hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. People love Hilo for its unique natural beauty. Just look at the photos:

Waipio Valley, from the Waipio Valley Overlook. Located about an hour north of Hilo, it’s one of the spectacular highlights on the Hilo-Hamakua Heritage Corridor. Credit: Bob Coello/BIVB

Kilauea volcano’s lava pouring into the ocean last year. Credit: Tor Johnson/HTA

Buckets of exotic tropical flowers at the Hilo Farmers Market. Credit: Bob Coello/BIVB.

Halemaumau Crater in Kilauea volcano…home to Hawaii’s volcano goddess Pele. As seen from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Credit: www.bluewaterjon.com

The Big Island Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is only 40 minutes from Hilo International Airport, and one of five national parks on the island. Yes, the Big Island is that big.

This shot shows one of several waterfalls at Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens in Hilo. Credit: Bob Coello/BIVB

Now are you ready to visit Hilo?