Is there a shuttle between Kona and Hilo?

Bus from Kona Airport to Hilo To take the Hele-On Bus, you will need to first take the airport shuttle from the terminal to the Kona International Market bus stop, which is about a 5-minute ride away. From there, you can catch the Hele-On Bus Route 1, which runs between Kona and Hilo.



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Driving along Hawaii Belt Road and Mamalahoa Highway would be considered the scenic route—the 125-mile trip takes about three hours. Fortunately, there's a lot to see on the way from Kailua-Kona to Hilo, so if you've got the time—and gas—to spare, here's a guide on what to look out for on your journey.

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The city is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, as with any destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Women should avoid walking alone at night, and should be aware of their personal belongings at all times.

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Kona is the more popular town among tourists for one reason: Kona is how we image Hawaii to look like. It has hot weather with beautiful beaches. If you goal is to sit on the beach while staying at your luxury beach front resort for your entire Big Island vacation, then Kona is perfect for you.

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There is a negligible difference in ticket prices between flying to Kona or Hilo. Kona and Hilo do enjoy the cheapest roundtrip flight to Hawaii per our research. The decision on where to fly in and out of the Big Island has more to do with your itinerary.

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If there's no traffic it will take approximately one and a half hours to to drive from downtown Kona to downtown Hilo without traffic. This is a great way to go if you don't intend to stop for food and you just want to get there.

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In West Hawaii, Kailua-Kona is typically a few degrees warmer and quite a bit more arid than tropical Hilo. It can stay warmer in the evening (unless you are higher up in the Kona hills.) It's typically warm and sunny near the ocean, and partly cloudy in the hills.

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Overall, you'll find more of a traditional Hawaiian feel on the Kona side. You'll also discover that it can be wetter and cooler than Kona, where it can be hot and sunny nearly every day. However, many people love the lush landscape of Hilo, with its Jurassic-Park-sized waterfalls and botanical gardens.

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Lower Tourist Population = Lower Prices This means greater room availability and lower prices for accommodations in and around Hilo, making a Hawaii vacation within easier reach for those traveling on a budget.

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