5 Best Sights in Liliuokalani Gardens and Reeds Bay, Big Island

More than 50 enormous banyan trees with aerial roots dangling from their limbs were planted along the road, mostly during the 1930s but also after World War II, by visiting celebrities. Names such as Amelia Earhart, Babe Ruth, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt appear on plaques affixed to the trees. A scenic loop beginning at the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo ( 93 Banyan Dr.) makes a nice walk, especially in the evening when thousands of mynah birds roost in the trees.

Designed to honor Hawaii's first Japanese immigrants and named after Hawaii's last reigning monarch, Liliuokalani Gardens' 30 acres of fish-filled ponds, stone lanterns, half-moon bridges, elegant pagodas, and a ceremonial teahouse make it a favorite Sunday destination, or any day of the week for that matter. You'll see weddings, picnics, and family gatherings as you stroll. The surrounding area, once a busy residential neighborhood on Waiakea Peninsula, was destroyed by a devastating 1960 tsunami that killed 61 people.

Also known as Coconut Island, this small island sits just offshore from Liliuokalani Gardens and is a nicely manicured spot where children play in the tide pools and anglers try their luck. Accessible via a footbridge, it was considered a place of healing and refuge in ancient times. There's a grassy picnic area, swimming spots, and a restroom, plus incredible views.

Safe swimming, proximity to downtown Hilo, and the Ice Pond—a freshwater-fed swimming hole that flows into the backwaters of Hilo Bay—are the enticements of this cove. No, there really isn't ice in the swimming hole; it just feels that way on a hot, sultry day. The large pond, between SCP Hilo Hotel and the Ponds Hilo Restaurant, is a favorite of local kids, who enjoy jumping into and frolicking in the fresh- and saltwater mix. The water is usually calm. Amenities: parking (no fee); showers. Best for: swimming.

At the Wailoa River State Recreation Area, a beautiful park setting near downtown Hilo, this circular exhibition center hosts monthly exhibits in two galleries featuring impressive work from local artists. Pieces range from photography, pottery, contemporary painting, quilts, glassworks, multimedia, and woodworking to musical instruments and artwork depicting Hawaii's native species. There's also an educational space for workshops and community events.