12-29-2024
Pacific Tsunami Museum
Located within the Hilo Region on Big Island
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Big Island of Hawaii Museum
Pacific Tsunami Museum Hilo
This small museum provides a wealth of multimedia information on tsunamis and their effect on the Pacific islands. Docents, many of whom are actual tsunami survivors, are more than happy to share their experiences and guide guests through the displays.
Television sets are anchored throughout the museum and play short videos to accompany the stories recounted on the walls. There are several interactive displays, including one that teaches visitors about the Tsunami Warning System by allowing them to "create" a tsunami and then decide whether or not it is strong enough to warrant evacuation.
2024-2025 Update
Unfortunately, the museum may have to close, see this article for more information.
The building is a renovated bank that managed to withstand both the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis. The museum has turned the old vault into a theater where an introductory movie is shown recounting the stories of tsunami survivors. The Pacific Tsunami Museum is well worth the time and $7 admission fee to gain a greater understanding of the natural disaster that has shaped the town of Hilo. It is located at 130 Kamehameha Ave at the corner of Kalakaua Street. Metered parking is available on Kamehameha and the one-way Kalakaua Street. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The admission price is $8 general. 808-935-0926 www.tsunami.org.
Pacific Tsunami Museum Reviews
Guidereview:
B (based on 332 visitor reviews)Geolocation Data
Geographic Coordinates
Latitude: 19.7255361
Longitude: -155.0858104
Hawaii Safety Information
Pacific Tsunami Museum Photo Gallery


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