Hilo Ocean Adventures
Activities (28)
Beach Snorkel - Sea Turtle Lagoon and Black Sand Beach
Families with curious kids, first-time snorkelers, and anyone after a genuine encounter with Hawaii's underwater world will feel right at home on this snorkel tour on the Big Island with Hilo Ocean Adventures. Priced from $101.15 per person , this 3-hour guided experience trades boats for boots-on-the-ground exploration along volcanic black sand beaches and calm, turtle-rich lagoons on Hilo's scenic eastern shore. What to Expect in the Water This is a beach-entry snorkel - not a boat trip - so you'll walk the dramatic black sand shoreline before slipping into brackish bays teeming with life. Your local guide leads two snorkel stops and narrates the geology of the volcanic coastline along the way. Below the surface, you may spot green sea turtles, tropical reef fish, eels, and manta rays . New to snorkeling? The guide covers the basics in a thorough safety briefing and stays right alongside you throughout. Children ages 8 and up are welcome, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Unaccompanied participation requires guests to be at least 18 years old. Inclusions and What to Bring The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, safety briefing, marine life spotting, snacks, and soft drinks. Arrive at 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720 and check in 20 minutes before departure - tours leave promptly and will not wait for late arrivals. Pack swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a camera, and a light jacket. Hotel pickup is not available. The tour is not suitable for pregnant guests or those with back or mobility problems, and all participants must be able to swim unassisted in open water. To explore more of the island's marine life, the Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook Monument Snorkel offers a spectacular reef experience on the Kona side, while the 2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter takes things to a different level after dark. For families and beginners, this small-group Big Island snorkel tour out of Hilo delivers genuine wildlife encounters, expert guidance, and a setting that's hard to match anywhere in Hawaii.
Discover Scuba Diving
Ready to take the plunge? Hilo Ocean Adventures' discover scuba diving Hilo program opens up the Big Island's underwater world to complete beginners. If you're 10 or older and can swim confidently in deep water, this 4-hour adventure is your gateway to exploring Hawaii's spectacular marine life – no certification or diving experience required. What makes Hilo special for first-time divers? The protected coastal waters here offer some of the clearest visibility you'll find, plus your best shot at swimming alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles. The volcanic underwater terrain creates a living reef system where yellow tangs dart between black lava formations, parrotfish graze on coral, and countless tropical species make their home in these nutrient-rich waters. Your discover scuba diving Hilo experience unfolds in three carefully planned stages. First, you'll handle paperwork, get fitted for gear, and learn essential safety basics through a comprehensive briefing. Then comes the game-changer: a 45-60 minute pool training session where you'll master breathing techniques and practice key skills in a controlled setting. Only after you're comfortable and confident will you head out for your guided ocean dive, with certified professionals watching over you every moment underwater. The Big Island's volcanic landscape continues beneath the waves, creating dramatic underwater scenes unlike anywhere else. While we can't promise sea turtle encounters, Hilo's waters give you the island's best odds for these magical meetings during your dive. At $325 per person, this introductory program includes all scuba equipment and expert instruction. You'll earn a Discover SCUBA Diving Certificate that's good for 14 days toward full Open Water Diver Certification if you decide to continue your underwater journey. Just remember to complete your PADI medical forms beforehand – having paperwork ready prevents extra fees. With full refunds available for cancellations 48+ hours in advance, it's an easy way to test the waters and see if scuba diving captures your imagination.
2 Tank Shore Dive – Wai'olena Beach
Hold an Open Water certification and want to see what lies beneath Hilo's coastline? This four-hour, two-tank shore dive with Hilo Ocean Adventures is built for you. Families with kids as young as 10, certified divers at any experience level, and anyone chasing real scuba diving on the Big Island will find it a rewarding way to spend a morning. A Dive Site Like No Other Leleiwi Beach sits along Hilo's lush East Hawaii coast, where cool freshwater springs meet the sea and keep coral healthy and marine life thriving. Your guided dives can put you face-to-face with green sea turtles, manta rays, octopus, eels, and a wealth of tropical fish. A safety briefing kicks things off before you ever get your fins wet, and experienced dive professionals lead every dive - so you can focus entirely on what's happening around you rather than navigating on your own. What Is Included Professional dive guide Marine life spotting Safety briefing Snacks and water Pricing starts from $249 per person . You'll need to show proof of Open Water certification or higher at check-in. Guests must be able to swim unassisted, and the activity is not suitable for those who are pregnant or have back or heart conditions. The meeting point is 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720 - plan to arrive 30 minutes before your departure time. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If you enjoy diving Hilo-side but also want to explore the Kona coast, the 2-Tank Local Morning Dive Charter and the 2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter offer a completely different Big Island scuba diving experience after dark. Both are excellent ways to round out your time on the island.
Royal Humpback Whale Experience
There's something magical about watching humpback whales breach against the backdrop of Mauna Kea's snow-dusted peaks, and the Royal Humpback Whale Experience Hilo delivers exactly that kind of unforgettable moment. As Hilo's only commercial whale watching vessel, this intimate tour departs from Wailoa Boat Harbor at 181 Manono Street, operating from December 16th through April 30th when thousands of North Pacific humpbacks make their epic 6,000-mile journey from Alaska to Hawaii's sheltered waters. Your 1.5-hour adventure unfolds along the stunning East Hawaii coastline during peak migration season, when these gentle giants return to breed, give birth, and nurture their calves in our warm Pacific waters. Expert local captains and crew share fascinating insights about whale behavior, migration patterns, and the deep cultural significance these magnificent creatures hold for the Hawaiian Islands. You'll witness spectacular displays—breaching, tail slapping, and those graceful pectoral fin waves that seem to greet the volcanic landscape stretching before you. The small-group setting aboard this comfortable vessel means you'll enjoy optimal viewing conditions and personalized attention from the crew, who know these waters like the back of their hand. As you cruise past the dramatic Hamakua Coast, light refreshments and water keep you comfortable while you scan the horizon for spouts and flukes. It's no wonder this Royal Humpback Whale Experience Hilo maintains an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 821 Google reviews—guests consistently rave about the quality of wildlife encounters and the crew's local expertise. At $139 per guest, this experience welcomes adventurers ages 8 and older, though several important safety restrictions apply. The tour isn't suitable for pregnant guests, individuals over 300 pounds, those with back or mobility problems, or anyone who cannot swim unassisted in open ocean conditions. Come prepared with reef-safe sunscreen (non-spray or tinted varieties only), sunglasses, a towel, hat, camera, and rain gear for the most comfortable experience. Tours depart promptly at scheduled times with no delays for late arrivals, so plan accordingly. The standard cancellation policy requires 48+ hours advance notice for a full refund or one-year gift card, and cancellations are accepted only by phone or email—making this Royal Humpback Whale Experience Hilo as reliable as it is remarkable.
2 Tank Boat Dive - Hilo Horizons
Discover the Big Island's hidden underwater treasures with the 2 Tank Boat Dive - Hilo Horizons, an exclusive four-hour adventure that takes certified divers to remote reef sites along Hawaii's dramatic east coast. Operated by Hilo Horizons and departing from Hilo Harbor, this expedition ventures north along the scenic Hamakua Coast to pristine dive locations that remain untouched by the crowds found elsewhere on the island. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure as you cruise past towering waterfalls cascading down Mauna Kea's verdant slopes and remnants of historic sugar plantations that shaped this coastline in the early 1900s. Keep your eyes peeled for spinner dolphins dancing in the boat's wake on calm days, while winter visitors might catch glimpses of breaching humpback whales or snow-capped Mauna Kea in the distance. Beneath the surface, two carefully selected dive sites showcase the raw power of Hawaii's volcanic origins. You'll explore dramatic underwater pinnacles, glide through natural swim-throughs carved by ancient lava flows, and navigate coral-covered canyons at comfortable depths of 40 to 80 feet. These pristine reefs pulse with life—endemic Hawaiian butterflyfish dart between coral formations while tangs and Moorish idols cruise the current. Hawaiian green sea turtles make frequent appearances, and eagle-eyed divers often spot octopus camouflaged among the volcanic rock formations. Your 2 Tank Boat Dive - Hilo Horizons experience comes complete with two air tanks, weights, expert divemaster guidance, bottled water, and light snacks. Full gear rental packages are available including mask, fins, wetsuit, BCD, and regulator. With water temperatures holding steady at 75-80°F year-round, a 3mm wetsuit provides ideal comfort for your underwater exploration. Priced at $269 per person, this tour welcomes certified divers with a minimum of 15 logged dives and valid Open Water certification or higher. Divers who've been inactive for two years or more must complete a refresher course before booking. The experience isn't suitable for pregnant guests, individuals over 300 pounds, or those with back or mobility issues. Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and maximum safety throughout your four-hour adventure. Tours depart promptly at 9:30 AM from Hilo Harbor—late arrivals forfeit their spots with no refunds, so plan accordingly for this unforgettable Big Island diving experience.
Kayak - Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Statue Adventure
Families, first-timers, and anyone craving a laid-back water sport on the Big Island will find this guided kayak tour a natural fit. You launch from the Wailoa boat ramp at 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720 , gliding onto the calm, glassy waters of the Wailoa River - "long water" in Hawaiian - and the stress of the day fades almost instantly. Open to guests ages 8 and up , this easy, one-hour adventure requires no prior paddling experience and no swimming ability. What You'll See and Learn Your local guide leads you upriver through a lush tropical corridor, past graceful Japanese-style bridges and overhanging branches that frame the sky above. Watch for native birds and fish darting through clear water as you go. Midway through the paddle, you'll pull up near the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, where your guide shares rich stories about Hilo's history - from the ancient Hawaiian kingdom to the tsunamis that reshaped this coastline. The route also passes an arboretum recognized for some remarkably large tree species, adding a surprising natural history dimension to the trip. If you'd rather explore the same waterway on a board, the SUP - Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Statue Adventure covers a similar route on a stand-up paddleboard. What's Included and What to Bring Pricing starts from $99 per person , with a double-kayak option available for two guests. Your ticket covers a kayak, life jacket, snacks, and water - everything you need on the water. Pack a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to make the most of the scenery. Check in at the meeting location 20 minutes before your tour begins , and make sure all waivers are signed in advance. For a longer outing, Hilo Ocean Adventures offers the Kayak - Myths and Legends Waterfall Adventure as a separate experience. Few Big Island water sports are this accessible or this scenic. This gentle river route through the heart of Hilo adds up to a genuinely memorable hour on the water for visitors of nearly any age or ability.
1 Tank Shore Dive – Wai'olena Beach
Certified divers, this one is for you. Solo, with a partner, or alongside family, this 2.5-hour guided shore dive at Leleiwi Beach puts you face-to-face with one of the most vibrant reef systems on the Big Island. Accessible and expert-led, scuba diving on the Big Island rarely gets this relaxed or rewarding - all you need is an Open Water certification and a sense of adventure. Divers must be at least 10 years old and able to swim unassisted in the open ocean. What You Will Find Below the Surface Leleiwi Beach is alive with color and activity. Your guide from Hilo Ocean Adventures will lead you through a reef teeming with green sea turtles, eels, octopus, and a wide variety of tropical fish. The site is known locally for a sea turtle cleaning station, where turtles hover patiently while reef fish do their work - one of those genuinely rare moments that stays with you long after the dive. Your dive master handles navigation so you can focus entirely on the marine life around you. What Is Included and What to Know Priced from $169 per person, the experience includes your guide, a safety briefing, marine life spotting, and snacks and water. Proof of Open Water certification or higher is required at check-in. Guests who are pregnant or have back problems should not participate. Check with the operator about gear rental, as it may not be included. Meet the team at 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, and plan to arrive 30 minutes early to check in and complete your paperwork. Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a camera. Want to make a full day of it? The Big Island offers plenty of ways to keep exploring, including a 2-Tank Local Morning Dive Charter or the legendary 2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter for something unforgettable after dark. Few places offer this kind of variety, which is exactly what makes scuba diving in Hawaii so hard to pass up.
Kayak - Hilo Bay & Coconut Island Adventure
The Kayak - Hilo Bay & Coconut Island Adventure delivers the perfect mix of gentle paddling and rich Hawaiian storytelling as you glide through Hilo Bay's calm, protected waters. This 2-hour guided journey takes you along one of the Big Island's most historically significant coastlines, where the towering silhouettes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa provide a breathtaking volcanic backdrop. With intimate groups capped at just 6 guests, you'll enjoy personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides who bring Hilo's fascinating past to life. After a thorough safety briefing and paddling tutorial, you'll launch into these beginner-friendly waters where stories unfold with every stroke. Your guide will regale you with tales of Queen Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the tranquil Japanese-style park honoring Hawaiʻi's final reigning monarch. The crown jewel of your kayak - hilo bay & coconut island adventure Hilo awaits at Coconut Island (Moku Ola)—a beloved local sanctuary where sheltered beaches meet fascinating tide pools and a peaceful lagoon invites exploration. Here, you can stretch your legs and discover why this spot holds such special meaning for Hilo residents. As you paddle, you'll uncover layers of Hilo's compelling history. Learn about the plantation era, the devastating tsunamis that transformed this coastline, and the profound spiritual connections between Hawaiian culture and these waters. Your guide weaves together tales of ancient legends with marine life encounters, creating an educational experience that's anything but dry. Everything you need comes included: kayak, paddle, life jacket, safety equipment, bottled water, and light snacks. Professional guides prioritize both safety and storytelling, welcoming paddlers of all skill levels while sharing insights into Hawaiian traditions and the bay's diverse ecosystem. This kayak - hilo bay & coconut island adventure Hilo welcomes guests ages 8 and up (minors need adult accompaniment) at $119 per person or $238 for a double kayak perfect for pairs. Tours launch from 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720. Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a towel for the complete experience. More than just a paddle, this adventure immerses you in the heart of old Hawaiʻi, where stunning volcanic vistas meet centuries of cultural heritage in Hilo's sheltered bay waters.
1 Tank Shore Dive – Certified Night Dive
When the sun sets over Hilo's coastline, the underwater world comes alive in ways that will change how you think about diving. This 1 tank shore dive – certified night dive Hilo adventure opens up a completely different realm beneath the waves, where creatures that hide during the day take center stage. As darkness settles over the Big Island's eastern shore, the transformation is remarkable. Eels glide gracefully through coral formations, nudibranchs emerge in vibrant colors, and brittlestars spread their arms to feed in the current. Fireworms dance through the water column while nocturnal reef fish venture out for their evening hunt. Meanwhile, the fish you're used to seeing during day dives tuck themselves away for the night—it's like exploring an entirely different reef. Your experienced divemaster from Hilo Ocean Adventures knows exactly where to find the action, guiding you safely through this hidden ecosystem. The company provides top-quality gear including 2018 Atomic Z3 regulators and Oceanic BCDs, so you can focus completely on the incredible marine encounters happening around you. This 3-hour experience is designed for certified divers ready for something special. You'll need to be at least 12 years old with Open Water Diver certification or higher—bring your certification card for check-in. The physical requirements are straightforward: you must be able to carry 50 pounds of equipment unassisted and follow detailed English instructions throughout the dive. Safety comes first, which means this adventure isn't suitable for pregnant divers, anyone over 300 pounds, or those with back or mobility limitations. There's also an important altitude restriction—you'll need to wait at least 12 hours after diving before ascending above 2,500 feet. Tours start promptly at the scheduled time, and if you need rental gear, arrive early for proper fitting. With 4.7 stars from over 821 Google reviews and a reasonable 48-hour cancellation policy for full refunds, this 1 tank shore dive – certified night dive Hilo reveals why nighttime diving creates some of the most memorable underwater experiences on the Big Island. It's marine life photography and observation like you've never experienced before.
Boat Snorkel - Tropical Reef & Wildlife Adventure
Explore Hilo's incredible underwater world with the boat snorkel - tropical reef & wildlife adventure Hilo through Hilo Ocean Adventures, where Hawaii's volcanic coastline creates some of the most unique snorkeling experiences you'll find anywhere. Setting off right from Hilo's harbor, this 2-hour family adventure takes you to carefully chosen snorkeling sites that change daily based on weather and ocean conditions—ensuring you always get the best possible experience. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from 821 Google reviews, this small-group tour delivers the personalized attention that makes all the difference. Your crew knows these waters intimately, and they're passionate about sharing the Big Island's marine treasures with you. What makes snorkeling here so special? The volcanic landscape beneath the waves creates an underwater playground unlike anywhere else. Dramatic lava rock formations and underwater ledges provide shelter for an amazing variety of marine life. You'll drift over colorful coral gardens where Hawaiian green sea turtles are regular visitors, gliding gracefully through crystal-clear waters. Schools of tropical fish create brilliant displays of color as they weave between the coral, while the unique volcanic terrain offers hiding spots for rays and countless reef species. Keep your eyes open for seasonal wildlife encounters—dolphins sometimes make appearances along Hilo's scenic coastline, though sightings can't be guaranteed. What you can count on is plenty of time in the water to explore, photograph, and simply marvel at this remarkable underwater ecosystem. Every detail is handled for you. High-quality snorkel gear and float belts are included, plus you'll have knowledgeable crew members providing guidance and support throughout your adventure. Whether you're a snorkeling veteran or trying it for the first time, the relaxed atmosphere and expert instruction create the perfect environment for ocean exploration. This boat snorkel - tropical reef & wildlife adventure Hilo starts at $179 for participants ages 8 and up. Pack your swimwear (wear it under your clothes), bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. A waterproof camera is perfect for capturing those magical turtle encounters and vibrant coral scenes. Important safety notes: this tour isn't recommended for pregnant guests, individuals over 300 pounds, those with back or mobility issues, or non-swimmers. Since tours depart right on schedule, plan to arrive early if you need equipment fitting and check-in time. Ready to discover what lies beneath Hilo's waters? Book your underwater adventure and experience the Big Island's most captivating marine destinations.
Cliffs of Hawai’i Onomea Waterfall Cruise
Picture yourself gliding along Hilo's dramatic coastline, where ancient Hawaiian stories come alive against a backdrop of towering sea cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The Cliffs of Hawai'i Onomea Waterfall Cruise delivers exactly this kind of magic—a 2-hour journey that weaves together East Hawaiʻi's natural splendor with the rich cultural tapestry that makes this corner of the Big Island so special. What sets this experience apart isn't just the scenery (though those secret coves and tropical shoreline views are absolutely breathtaking). It's the storytelling. Your expert local guide brings the Hamakua Coast to life, sharing tales of the Hawaiian communities that once flourished here and pointing out remnants of the early 1900s sugar mills that powered Hilo's booming plantation economy. You'll discover how these coastal waters witnessed centuries of island history, from ancient Hawaiian villages to the sugar era that shaped modern Hawaii. The boat itself becomes your front-row seat to one of nature's greatest shows. Playful spinner and bottlenose dolphins often join the adventure, leaping alongside your vessel as you cruise past dramatic cliffs. From this unique vantage point, both Mauna Kea—the world's tallest mountain when measured from ocean floor to summit—and Mauna Loa, Earth's most massive active volcano, dominate the horizon in ways you simply can't appreciate from land. This cliffs of hawai'i onomea waterfall cruise hilo experience strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and education. Your professional captain and crew provide continuous historical and cultural narration while serving light refreshments and bottled water throughout the journey. It's the kind of intimate small-group adventure where you actually learn something meaningful about Hawaiian culture rather than just snapping photos. At $159 per guest, the tour welcomes visitors aged 8 and older (minors need adult supervision), and smart packing makes all the difference. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and definitely pack a light jacket or rain gear—Hilo's weather can be wonderfully unpredictable. Don't forget your camera for those coastal landscape shots that'll make your friends back home seriously jealous. With a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 821 Google reviews, this cliffs of hawai'i onomea waterfall cruise has earned its reputation as more than just another boat tour. It's a peaceful escape that connects you to the stories and spirit of East Hawaiʻi, offering a perspective on the Big Island that you simply can't get anywhere else. Book your spot for an afternoon that combines stunning natural beauty with authentic Hawaiian cultural storytelling—the kind of experience that stays with you long after you've returned to shore.
1 Tank Boat Dive - Hilo Horizons
Certified divers who want a relaxed, guided dive without a long boat ride will feel right at home here. Priced from $139 , this 2.5-hour trip runs aboard Hilo's only commercial dive boat and ranks among the most accessible options for scuba diving on the Big Island . Divers aged 10 and up are welcome, and the easy difficulty level makes it a great fit for anyone holding an Open Water certification or higher. What to Expect on the Water Check in at the Hilo Ocean Adventures shop - arrive 45 minutes before your trip - then board and head out along the East Hawaii coastline. Your expert local guide leads a small group down to volcanic reef structures shaped by ancient lava flows, where Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish, eels, and octopus tuck into the coral at every turn. East-side waters tend to run calm, and the guided format keeps the pace comfortable from start to finish. What's Included Tank and weights, wetsuit, mask, and fins Expert divemaster guide Snacks and water Marine life spotting throughout the dive Certified divers pay $189 per person . A snorkeler may join at $139 per person , but only when booked alongside a paid diver in the same party. Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a camera. Swimming ability is required, and the trip is weather dependent, so conditions may affect scheduling. If one tank leaves you wanting more bottom time, the 2-Tank Local Morning Dive Charter extends your morning on the reef, or try the 2 Tank Night Manta Dive Charter for a completely different angle on Big Island scuba diving . Either way, this one-tank Hilo dive is a solid starting point for exploring East Hawaii's underwater world.
About
Hilo Ocean Adventures has been showing visitors the magic beneath Big Island waters for years, and they've got it down to an art. Operating out of Hilo town, this local crew knows every reef, every current, and every secret spot worth exploring along the island's rugged eastern coastline.
What makes them special? They keep groups small and personal. You won't find yourself crammed onto a cattle-boat operation here. Instead, expect intimate adventures where guides actually have time to point out that rare nudibranch or explain why certain fish gather at cleaning stations. Their territory spans from the easily accessible coral gardens at Leleiwi Beach to those pristine offshore sites that only locals know how to reach safely.
The variety is impressive. Experienced divers love their night dives – there's nothing quite like watching the reef transform after dark, with octopuses hunting and eels emerging from their hiding spots. New to diving? Their single-tank introductory dives ease you into the underwater world without overwhelming you. Snorkelers get just as much attention, discovering rainbow parrotfish and angelfish in shallow coral gardens. They even throw kayaking and waterfall hikes into the mix for those who want to experience more of what makes this side of the island so special.
The real difference is in the details. These guides grew up diving these waters. They understand the subtle changes in conditions that make or break a dive day, and they're passionate about sharing Hawaii's marine world responsibly. Whether you're logging your first dive or your thousandth, you'll walk away understanding why Big Island's eastern coast offers some of Hawaii's most authentic ocean experiences.