What to expect: Beginning in 1933, celebrities, royalty, and national and local leaders have planted banyan trees on the street around the hotel. Between the deep shade of these trees and the bay is where nearly all of Hilo's hotels are located. Visitors stopping overnight in Hilo or exploring the Big Island stay at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel.

Amenity highlights: Though it's within a couple minutes' drive of downtown Hilo, the hotel's location on Banyan Drive gives a sense of tranquil isolation. Guests relax in Hawaiian ambience, swim and sun, and indulge in the spa's massage, body, and facial treatments before and after forays around the Big Island.

Insider tip: Directly in front of the hotel is the banyan tree planted by Babe Ruth in 1933. Although more than 40 trees have been planted since the first eight in 1933, none garners more attention that Ruth's, including those planted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and King George V.

What to expect: This quiet, well-maintained hotel provides many places within its grounds for tranquility and privacy. On the grounds is a freshwater pond filled with fish. People come here for budget accommodations close to Hilo attractions.

Amenity highlights: Secluded and open to the sun, the pool provides a tranquil spot for sunning and swimming.