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Pacific Tsunami Museum

4.4
·430 reviews·Hilo, United States

Explore Hilo's resilience through exhibits on devastating tsunamis, vital safety info, and survivor stories.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Streetview PTM

Pacific Tsunami Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Hilo's resilience through exhibits on devastating tsunamis, vital safety info, and survivor stories.

4.4
(430 reviews)

"Incredibly sweet staff and well-informed guides made us feel prepared for the tsunami warning."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers offer incredible insights and personal stories. Ask questions – they're passionate about sharing knowledge!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking and standing to explore the exhibits. Comfort is key for a full experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

1960 Hilo Tsunami Exhibit

1960 Hilo Tsunami Exhibit

Main Hall

Relive the devastating 1960 tsunami through powerful exhibits and survivor stories. A must-see for understanding Hilo's resilience.

Tsunami Science & Safety

Tsunami Science & Safety

Interactive displays

Learn the science behind tsunamis and crucial life-saving information. Essential knowledge for anyone visiting the Pacific.

Survivor Testimonials

Survivor Testimonials

Audio-visual stations

Hear firsthand accounts from tsunami survivors, offering a deeply personal and impactful perspective on these natural disasters.

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Planning Your Visit

Understand Tsunami Preparedness

This museum is more than just exhibits; it's a vital resource for understanding tsunami risks and safety. Learn crucial evacuation routes and preparedness tips that could save lives, especially if you're visiting coastal areas. TikTokReddit

Check for Special Events

The museum often hosts commemorative events, film screenings, and educational programs. Checking their schedule beforehand can enhance your visit, offering deeper insights into tsunami history and science. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique educational programs
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Crazy #hawaii #hilo #news #fyp #tsunami
@rosalia_monkey
342.7K likes • 2.2M views

🎯 Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers offer incredible insights and personal stories. Ask questions – they're passionate about sharing knowledge! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking and standing to explore the exhibits. Comfort is key for a full experience. Instagram

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said during an overnight press conference that the state has “not seen a wave of consequence” amid the tsunami warning that prompted officials to evacuate people across the island chain to higher ground. By early Wednesday morning, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said the Hilo, Hawaii, gauge recorded a tsunami height of 4.9 feet relative to normal sea levels and the Kahul...
@cbsnews
23.6K likes • 1.1M views
This Wednesday, May 22nd, marking 54 years since the tragedy of the 1960 Hilo Tsunami, the Pacific Tsunami Museum invites all to join us for a FREE* commemorative event. 🎬 We'll be screening the PBS documentary "Shinmachi: Stronger than a Tsunami," followed by an insightful post-film presentation. Doors open at 4:30 PM, with the film starting promptly at 5 PM and running for about an hour. Follo...
pacifictsunamimuseum
48 likes • 1.8K views

📱 Prepare for Warnings

Visit before a tsunami warning to get informed. The museum's info is invaluable for staying safe. TikTokReddit

🐶 Meet Hilo, the Dog

The museum often has a friendly dog named Hilo. If you have allergies, be mindful, but he's a beloved greeter. Reddit

HI-EMA 2024 Tsunami Summer Jam event. Hosted at Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hilo
hawaii_ema
21 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Engage with Volunteers

Volunteers offer incredible insights and personal stories. Ask questions – they're passionate about sharing knowledge! Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking and standing to explore the exhibits. Comfort is key for a full experience. Instagram

📱 Prepare for Warnings

Visit before a tsunami warning to get informed. The museum's info is invaluable for staying safe. TikTokReddit

🐶 Meet Hilo, the Dog

The museum often has a friendly dog named Hilo. If you have allergies, be mindful, but he's a beloved greeter. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(430 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Pacific Tsunami Museum highly informative and crucial for understanding tsunami risks and Hilo's history. The passionate staff and survivor stories are often highlighted as impactful, though some feel the exhibits could benefit from modernization. The museum's role in educating the public about safety is widely appreciated.

"Visited the Pacific Tsunami Museum on a weekday. The volunteer gave a detailed presentation and then went on a self guided tour. Very informative. Lots of posters explaining Tsumami and giving life saving information if a Tsunami occurs."

K RV

"We visited the DAY before the tsunami warning and let me tell you- we are glad we did! Not only were they just incredibly sweet with our two young kids, the staff were so passionate and well informed. So much so that we weren't completely blindsided and panicked when the tsunami warning came through less than 24 hours later. Thank you for setting us up with great info so we could stay safe!"

Sydney Anaya

"This tsunami museum is one of a kind! The guides are very informative and will be open to answering questions. The museum is very interesting and tells about amazing rescues from several tsunamis. When stopping in make sure you meet Hilo (the museum dog).
In conclusion 5 stars."

Nolan Chamberlin

What People Like

Informative exhibits
Passionate volunteers
Survivor stories

What People Dislike

Needs modernization
Allergy concerns with dog

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at 130 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720. Street parking is available on Kalakaua Street and Kamehameha Avenue. It's easily accessible by car within Hilo. Reddit

Yes, Hilo has a public bus system that can take you to the downtown area near the museum. Check the local transit schedules for routes and times.

If you're staying in downtown Hilo, the museum is within walking distance. It's a pleasant stroll through the historic district. Instagram

Street parking is generally available on Kamehameha Avenue and surrounding streets. Be mindful of any posted parking restrictions. Reddit

While the museum aims to be accessible, some older buildings can have limitations. It's best to call ahead to confirm specific accessibility features. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $10 for military and seniors, and $5 for children. Reddit

The museum is typically open on weekdays and Saturdays, but it's closed on Mondays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, especially around holidays. Reddit

While not always required, booking in advance, especially for special events, is recommended. For general admission, walk-ins are usually accommodated. Instagram

Yes, discounts are available for military personnel and seniors. Children also have a reduced admission price. Reddit

The museum sometimes hosts free commemorative events, such as screenings of documentaries about tsunamis. Keep an eye on their announcements for such opportunities. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find exhibits detailing the impact of tsunamis on Hilo and the Pacific, including the devastating 1946 and 1960 events. There are also displays on tsunami science and safety. TikTokReddit

The museum features some interactive elements, though some may be in need of an update. They aim to educate visitors about tsunami phenomena and preparedness. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or ask a staff member. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, many museums of this nature have a small gift shop offering related books and souvenirs. It's worth checking upon arrival.

Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits and engaging with the information. You can easily spend longer if you delve into all the displays and listen to survivor accounts. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not appear to have a cafe or restaurant. However, it is located in downtown Hilo, which offers numerous dining options nearby. Reddit

Downtown Hilo has a variety of eateries, from casual local diners and cafes to restaurants serving Hawaiian and international cuisine. You'll find plenty of choices within walking distance. Instagram

It's generally not permitted to consume outside food and beverages inside museum exhibits. There may be designated areas outside if you need to eat.

Many visitors enjoy the local flavors available in downtown Hilo. Exploring the streets around the museum will reveal many popular spots for lunch or dinner.

There are public spaces and parks in Hilo where you could potentially have a picnic, though not directly at the museum. Check local park regulations.

📸 📸 Photography

The exhibits themselves, particularly historical photos and artifacts, offer compelling visual stories. The museum's exterior architecture can also be photogenic. Instagram

It's best to avoid using flash photography, as it can damage delicate exhibits and disrupt the experience for other visitors. Always check for signage or ask staff. Instagram

The displays detailing the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis, with their historical images and artifacts, are often highlights for photographers. TikTok

Lighting varies by exhibit, but it's generally designed to preserve the displays. Some areas might be dimmer, requiring a higher ISO or careful camera settings. Instagram

If Hilo is present and approachable, taking a photo is usually fine, but always be respectful of the dog and its handlers. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Pacific Tsunami Museum offers a unique educational experience for families. While the subject matter is serious, the museum presents it in an engaging way that can be understood by children. Interactive exhibits and survivor stories can spark curiosity and important conversations about nature's power and safety. InstagramReddit

Consider attending their Keiki Reading Hour for younger children, which makes learning fun and accessible. Instagram The museum's friendly staff and the presence of Hilo, the museum dog, can also make the visit more welcoming for kids. Remember to discuss the serious nature of tsunamis beforehand to prepare them for the content. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Researchers

For those fascinated by historical events and their impact, the Pacific Tsunami Museum is a treasure trove. The detailed exhibits on the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis, complete with historical photographs, artifacts, and survivor accounts, offer deep insights into a critical period for Hilo. TikTokReddit Researchers can find valuable primary source material and personal narratives that shed light on the social and environmental history of the region.

The museum's collection provides a powerful lens through which to understand disaster response, community resilience, and the long-term effects of natural catastrophes. Engaging with the knowledgeable volunteers can also provide additional context and historical anecdotes. Reddit

🌊 Travelers Seeking Safety Information

If you're traveling to coastal areas, especially in the Pacific, understanding tsunami risks and safety protocols is paramount. The Pacific Tsunami Museum excels in providing this crucial information. You'll learn about tsunami science, warning systems, and essential evacuation procedures. TikTokReddit This visit can transform anxiety about potential warnings into preparedness and confidence. TikTok

By visiting the museum, you gain practical knowledge that can be life-saving. The exhibits clearly outline what to do in an emergency, making you a more informed and safer traveler. It's a proactive step towards enjoying your trip with peace of mind. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Impact of Tsunamis on Hilo

Hilo, Hawaii, has a profound and tragic history with tsunamis. The museum powerfully illustrates the devastating impact of these natural disasters, particularly the major tsunamis of 1946 and 1960. These events reshaped the town's landscape, caused immense loss of life, and left indelible scars on the community. TikTok The exhibits delve into the science behind these waves, explaining how seismic activity in the Pacific can trigger catastrophic surges that travel thousands of miles to impact coastal communities like Hilo.

Visitors can explore personal stories of survival and loss, gaining a deep appreciation for the resilience of the people of Hilo. The museum serves not only as a memorial to the victims but also as a crucial educational center. By understanding the history and the science, the museum aims to equip both residents and visitors with the knowledge needed for preparedness and safety in the event of future tsunami warnings. TikTokReddit

Learning about these events is a somber but essential experience. It underscores the raw power of nature and the importance of respecting the ocean's potential for destruction. The museum's dedication to preserving these stories ensures that the lessons learned from past tragedies continue to inform and protect future generations. Instagram

Tsunami Preparedness and Safety

Beyond historical accounts, the Pacific Tsunami Museum places a strong emphasis on tsunami preparedness and safety. This is a critical aspect of their mission, especially for a region situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire. The museum provides vital information on what to do during a tsunami warning, including understanding evacuation routes and designated safe zones. TikTokReddit

Interactive displays and informative posters guide visitors through the steps to take, from recognizing natural warnings like earthquakes or unusual ocean behavior to heeding official alerts. The goal is to demystify the process and empower individuals to act quickly and decisively. This practical knowledge is invaluable for anyone living in or visiting coastal areas prone to tsunamis. TikTokInstagram

By understanding the science and the protocols, visitors can feel more confident and less panicked should a tsunami warning be issued. The museum's commitment to education extends beyond the exhibits, often involving community outreach and events designed to reinforce these life-saving messages. Instagram

The Museum's Role in the Community

The Pacific Tsunami Museum is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a vital community resource deeply rooted in Hilo's history. Founded in response to the devastating 1960 tsunami, its primary mission has always been to serve as a memorial and an educational hub. Instagram The museum actively engages with the local community through various events and programs, fostering a sense of shared history and collective responsibility for safety. Instagram+1

Through initiatives like Keiki Reading Hour, the museum promotes literacy and early education about ocean safety among children. Instagram They also collaborate with local organizations and businesses, as highlighted by their partnership with Hawaii Energy to promote energy efficiency, demonstrating a commitment to broader community well-being. Instagram This community focus ensures the museum remains relevant and impactful, serving as a beacon of education and remembrance. Instagram