You can easily visit downtown area if you don't mind walking for 30-40 min. However, if you want more flexibility, get to finer beaches and hikes and luxurious Kona Coast, you'll have to rent a car. You can do it with the help of the hotels, or independently. Taxi stations are located immediately outside the baggage claim area at the Hilo Airport. The hotel will send a shuttle to pick you up within 10-20 minutes.
Clothing is casual and comfortable in Hawaii.
Expect daytime temperatures in Hilo to be in the low to mid 80's Fahrenheit, with overnight lows in the low 70's. The Big Island has ten different climate zones ranging from tropical to alpine, and temperatures are cool at higher elevations. If you plan to explore the island, pack warmer clothes that you can layer, along with your swimsuit. 974-7555, before June 1st, 2001.