Share The Article

There’s no question that Hawaii is one of America’s dreamiest destinations. Otherwise, those in need of a sunny vacation wouldn’t bear the long flight across the Pacific.

But when it comes to Honolulu, some could argue it doesn’t live up to the hype as you see in the movies.

With a surprising amount of headache-inducing traffic from the get-go and a perceived lack of culture disguised by an urban sprawl of name-brand eyesores, some travelers wish they had skipped Hawaii’s capital city for a more authentic sense of aloha.

Well, it appears Southwest heard the moans and groans of disappointment and just announced its most exciting new route in years!

Those seeking less pizzazz and more substance, the real Hawaii awaits in the lesser-known coastal paradise of Hilo.

Small Town Delights On The Big Island

Sitting on the windward side of Hawaii’s Big Island, charming Hilo almost feels out of place in the best of ways.

This local-first town isn’t exactly a bustling tourist haven — not that it shouldn’t be — vacationers just aren’t as familiar with this side of Hawaii’s appeal.

Since Waikiki is all but a household name at this point, when venturing this far off from the mainland, travelers tend to take fewer chances and go with what’s the safest bet for a successful vacation.

Hilo is quite the opposite of Honolulu, and that’s no knock — this laid-back town offers an array of unforgettable sites and attractions.

From untamed beauty within Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and stunning waterfalls to chase in close reach, Hilo is a far cry from unsightly resort crowds.

Without a crowd in sight, and nothing but lush greenery and open coastlines, we at Travel Off Path believe this is the Hawaii you’ve always dreamed of.

Plus, the town center is truly delightful, offering unexpected small-town charm not often depicted in postcard-perfect advertisements.

Peruse the Hilo Farmers Market, pause for ocean views at Hilo Bayfront, and turn back the clock at Lyman Museum to trace the roots of Hawaii’s past.

Is Hilo A Beach Destination?

Hilo is not a classic beach destination per se — and this is a key reason why many opt for the chaos of Waikiki over Big Island serenity.

With rugged, lava-formed coastline, you may witness jaw-dropping beauty, but not ideal beach conditions to lounge along sun-kissed shores.

Hilo is more of a nature destination, minus swimming and surfing. But being outdoors is a huge draw and there are some apostrophe-laden accessible beaches worth the trip if you’re up for an adventure.

I mean, you’ve come this far…

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is about 90 minutes from town, offering — you guessed it — dark-hued volcanic sand, plus common turtle sightings and virtually no crowds to snorkel freely.

But Richardson Ocean Park is the closest swimming spot near town. It’s a short drive from the airport and a stone’s throw from At the Beach With Friends Bed and Breakfast, one of the most charming, locally-owned accommodations anywhere in Hawaii.

Southwest Is Set To Launch Groundbreaking New Flight From Vegas

Now the moment you’ve been waiting for!

Southwest is listening to travelers’ demands by making Hilo easier to reach than ever.

Currently, pint-sized Hilo International Airport only serves one other domestic route from Honolulu.

That means travelers have to accept a layover to get here — but that’s not the case any longer!

Once Southwest launches its new Las Vegas–Hilo route, travelers can fly nonstop to Hilo on the only trans-Pacific service directly linking the mainland to this side of the Big Island.

Set to launch in the midst of summer, circle August 6, 2026 on your calendar (if anyone uses physical calendars anymore).

Southwest will offer flights 3x/week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from Las Vegas (LAS) to Hilo (ITO).

According to Southwest’s press release, the following is expected to be the flight schedule for both directions:

• Hawaii-bound: departing 9:30 am and arriving 12:35 pm
• Vegas-bound: departing 8:45 pm and arriving 5:10 am (the following day)

But wait, there’s more!

If you just can’t wait until August, Southwest is offering a loophole with special flights in honor of Merrie Monarch Festival 2026:

Thursday, April 9, 2026: depart Las Vegas at 9:25 am and arrive Hilo at 12:30 pm

Sunday, April 12, 2026: depart Hilo at 9:50 am and arrive Las Vegas at 6:25 pm