Suggestions if Gov't Shutdown Closes Volcanoes NP

Question

We will be arriving in Hilo on October 10th on a cruise and have arranged for a rental car to go spend the day at Volcanoes NP. If there is a government shutdown that is still in effect on that date, we can't figure out what we would do in place of Volcanoes NP. We have the car from about 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. We like nature, but can't hike more than a mile or two at a time. We like beaches and water activities like snorkeling, but we won't have beach chairs, umbrellas or snorkeling equipment. The lava tours interest us, but we don't want to book a tour in advance in case there is no shutdown or if the shutdown ends by the time we reach Hilo. We also have an interest in astronomy, but I don't see anything other than the Imiloa Astronomy Center. And finally, we will be in a rental sedan, so we can't take roads that require 4WD.

Any suggestions for things to see and do for that day would be appreciated! (And we'll keep our fingers crossed about the shutdown.)

Answer

It’s unfortunate that you’re worried about a potential government shutdown affecting your visit to Volcanoes National Park, but there are still plenty of incredible things to do on the Island of Hawaii (Big Island), even if the park is closed! Here are some alternatives for your day in Hilo, taking into account your interests in nature, beaches, and astronomy:

1. Visit Akaka Falls State Park

If you enjoy nature but are limited in hiking, Akaka Falls is a great option. It’s an easy, short hike (about 0.4 miles) to see the stunning 442-foot waterfall. The park is beautiful and offers a chance to experience the lush rainforests and streams of the Hilo area. It's a perfect spot to stretch your legs without overexerting yourself.

2. Explore the Hamakua Coast

Take a scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast, a beautiful stretch of coastline with waterfalls, lush greenery, and stunning ocean views. The drive itself is a treat, and you can stop to take in the views. You can also check out spots like the Waipi’o Valley Overlook, even if you can’t do the full hike down into the valley. It’s a perfect way to enjoy nature without needing to hike too far.

3. Hilo Beaches (Great for a Relaxing Day by the Water)

While you won’t be able to do snorkeling without gear, you can still visit a few scenic beaches near Hilo. Some good options include:

Richardson Ocean Park – Known for its black sand beach and clear waters, this spot is perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery. While snorkeling gear is needed for full enjoyment, the beach itself is peaceful and beautiful for a quiet visit.
Carlsmith Beach Park – A popular spot for swimming, this park has calm waters and is often good for snorkeling. You could enjoy the beach here and relax by the water.

4. Lava Viewing from the Coast (If Possible)

If the lava flow is still accessible, there might be opportunities for viewing the lava from the coastline, depending on where it’s flowing. Some spots along the coast offer views of the lava entering the ocean, which can be a dramatic and beautiful experience. Since you're not keen on booking tours in advance, keep an eye on local news to see if there are any accessible viewing areas or unofficial spots where you can safely view the lava.

5. Imiloa Astronomy Center

If you're interested in astronomy, the Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo is a great option. It’s not a full-scale observatory, but it offers interesting exhibits on the science of astronomy, the history of Hawaiian star navigation, and the Mauna Kea observatories. They also have a planetarium, which can be a fun and educational experience.

6. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens

If you’re interested in more nature and wildlife, consider visiting the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, just outside of Hilo. It’s the only tropical rainforest zoo in the U.S. and is home to a variety of animals, including exotic birds, monkeys, and native Hawaiian species. The zoo is small but worth a visit, especially if you have kids or enjoy wildlife.

7. Downtown Hilo and Farmers Market

If you’d like to explore Hilo itself, you can spend some time walking around downtown. Hilo’s charming historic district offers local shops, art galleries, and cafes. If it’s a Wednesday or Saturday, you can check out the Hilo Farmers Market, which has fresh produce, local crafts, and food stalls. It’s a great way to experience local culture and pick up some souvenirs or snacks.

8. Scenic Drive to Mauna Kea Summit (Astronomy Interest)

Though you won’t be able to access the summit of Mauna Kea with a sedan (it requires a 4WD vehicle), you can drive part of the way up to enjoy breathtaking views of the island. If you're interested in astronomy, you can also visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Center at the 9,200-foot level, where you can learn about the observatories and the island’s connection to the stars. Just be aware that the higher elevation can be a bit cooler and require some adjustment.

9. Hilo Town and Local Food

If you find yourself with extra time, consider grabbing a meal in Hilo. Local favorites include:

Ken’s House of Pancakes – A popular spot for a casual, hearty breakfast or lunch with a local flair.
Hilo Bay Café – A great option for lunch or dinner with a view of Hilo Bay, offering fresh seafood and local dishes.
Pineapple’s Island Fresh Cuisine – Another great place for casual dining with local flavors, including tropical fruit-infused dishes.

Even if the government shutdown affects the National Park, there’s still so much to see and do on the island! These suggestions should help you make the most of your day, keeping things flexible and fun.

Best of luck with your trip, and let’s hope the shutdown ends by the time you arrive!