★★★★★ 4.6 stars, 12 reviews

Hilo Ghost Walk

$65.25 per person

Walking tour of historic downtown Hilo with plenty of ghost stories and local folklore.

*includes all taxes and fees


Ghost Tour

Duration

2 Hours

Ghost Tour

Meeting Point

near Day-Lum Properties (2 Kamehameha Ave.)

Ghost Tour

Minimum Age

13+

Check-Out Availability

On Christmas Day 1915, a Hilo native named Elena dove into the ocean off of Keaukaha with a friend. They swam about 100 feet to some rocks in Hilo Bay to collect Hawaiian shellfish for dinner. Just a moment later, the friend heard Elena’s panicked cries for help. Suspended in place for unknown reasons, an unseen force held her in its powerful grip underneath the waves and wouldn’t let her go. Elena hoped to see her grandchildren again, but her friend, try as she might, could not free her from the crushing, invisible embrace. Who would save Elena?

This is just one of many gripping, otherworldly tales from Hilo. The New Orleans of the Pacific, Hilo is a colorful, historic, mural-filled town — home to music, ghosts, and magic. The scene of devastating tsunamis and the wandering spirits they leave in their wake, Hilo’s crescent-shaped bay also saw the launch of King Kamehameha’s 800 war canoes in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

Expect to learn about Hawaii's haunted heritage and to hear tales of Hilo's unique paranormal activity. Enigmatic local entities include 'uhane, wandering spirits of the dead, 'aumakua, ancestors transformed into family gods, the protective power of Hawaiian deities such as Pele and Mo'oinanea, and akualele, mysterious fireballs associated with curses and the dead.


What To Expect

A building with a sign that says kress on it

Why Choose American Ghost Walks?

The Hilo Ghost Walk tour was created by not only combing through old books, newspaper articles, and stories, but by interviewing the people who live and work in these establishments every day. We worked closely developing the tour stops with a local archaeologist and our guides are Hawaiian locals. We are proud to be part of the tourism community in this vibrant town with a fascinating mix of cultures.

Ghost Tour

Expert Paranormal Guide

Ghost Tour

Select nights at 5pm

Ghost Tour

Easy/Moderate

Ghost Tour

$65.25 Per Person

Important Info


  • Free parking is available in the lot near the historical marker, but there is also ample street parking throughout the area.
  • The duration of our tours is 1.5-2 hours depending on the engagement of each group. Please allow for 2 hours since our guides take pride in what they do and can sometimes provide updates and extra juicy details when guests ask questions.
  • This tour runs rain or shine, so please dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.
  • The tour route is wheelchair-accessible, just let us know if you plan on using one, so we can adjust the route appropriately for your comfort.
  • Because this is a limited capacity tour, all sales are final. But we will reschedule you if you have an emergency.
  • Service animals are welcome. However, for liability issues, please leave your furry friends at home if you don’t require their assistance.
A neon sign for the palace theater is lit up at night

The haunted Palace Theatre

A wall with graffiti on it that says hilo town

A beautiful mural

A mural on the side of a building shows a crab and a woman

More incredible local artwork

Kamehameha Avenue, where your haunted excursion begins

The haunted Kress Building

The magnificent Mauna Kea

The haunted Palace Theatre

A beautiful mural

Reviews

Itinerary

Meeting Point


The historical marker near Day-Lum Properties (2 Kamehameha Ave.)

Highlights

  • Marvel at Hawaii's unique perspective on the paranormal.
  • Hear Hawaiian and Japanese accounts of local supernatural encounters and strange tales from the annual Merrie Monarch Festival.
  • Learn about the spiritual influence of the sacred mountain named Mauna Kea on legal affairs.
  • Enjoy a haunted stroll through the quaint streets of historic Hilo with its charming pre-World War II persona and historic storefronts.

List of Services

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Hilo Ghost Walk?

    The Hilo Ghost Walk is a guided evening tour through downtown Hilo that shares true local ghost stories, Hawaiian folklore, and paranormal history. You’ll explore historic landmarks and learn about Hawaii’s unique spiritual heritage, from ancient deities to wandering spirits.


  • How long does the tour last?

    The tour usually lasts about two hours. It covers a moderate walking distance through Hilo’s historic district, making it both accessible and immersive for visitors.

  • Where does the tour start?

    The tour begins near the historical marker by Day-Lum Properties (2 Kamehameha Ave.) in downtown Hilo. This central meeting point offers free parking nearby, with additional street parking throughout the area.


  • What can I expect during the Hilo Ghost Walk?

    Expect a mix of history, culture, and ghostly legends. You’ll visit sites like the Palace Theater, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, and Kalākaua Park, hearing tales of spirits, ancient gods, and unexplained phenomena that shape Hilo’s haunted identity.


  • Is the tour scary or family-friendly?

    We can never guarantee a supernatural encounter, but we will explain paranormal phenomena such as cold spots and residual hauntings. What we do guarantee: Our local connections and dedication to research means you'll get authentic accounts — in all their shocking detail.

  • Who leads the Hilo Ghost Walk tours?

    All tours are led by knowledgeable local guides, many of whom grew up in Hilo. They’ve worked with historians, archaeologists, and residents to ensure every story is authentic and rooted in Hawaiian tradition.


  • Is the Hilo Ghost Walk wheelchair accessible?

    Yes, the tour route is fully wheelchair-accessible. Guests using wheelchairs are encouraged to let the team know in advance so the route can be adjusted for maximum comfort.


  • What should I wear or bring?

    Hilo’s weather can change quickly, so bring a light rain jacket and wear comfortable walking shoes. The tour runs rain or shine, and the terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate.


  • Are pets allowed on the tour?

    Service animals are welcome, but other pets should be left at home for safety and liability reasons.


  • Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

    Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a light jacket or rain gear. Hilo evenings can be humid and sometimes rainy, so being prepared makes the tour more enjoyable.

  • What makes this ghost tour unique?

    Unlike generic ghost tours, the Hilo Ghost Walk blends Hawaiian mythology, local oral history, and true paranormal accounts gathered from Hilo residents. It’s an authentic, respectful look at Hawaii’s spiritual world, led by locals who know the land’s stories best.


  • What is your cancellation policy?

    Because this is a limited capacity tour, all sales are final. If we cancel the tour because of weather or another event, we offer a full refund.

    We will do our best to accommodate rescheduling requests, but cannot guarantee changes because other tours and dates might be sold out.

Do you have the courage to join?

Explore haunted locations and hear chilling tales. Face your fears and uncover dark secrets. Join us, if you dare!

BOOK NOW
A large body of water with palm trees in the foreground

Hilo Ghost Walk

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A sunset over the ocean with palm trees in the foreground

Kailua-Kona Ghost Walk

Kailua-Kona on the Big Island is crawling with accounts of Night Marchers, choking ghosts, and ancient deities. From $59 per person. Select nights at 5:30pm.