Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Statue SUP Adventure

Set out on a captivating stand-up paddle adventure along the serene Wailoa River in Hilo, Hawaii. This small-group tour allows you to glide through the gentle waters, taking in stunning views of Japanese-style bridges and diverse wildlife. As you paddle towards the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the Big Island’s rich history, immersing you in the natural beauty of this enchanting destination. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, this experience promises an unforgettable connection with Hilo’s remarkable landscape.

Tour Overview

The Wailoa River SUP Adventure offers visitors a chance to experience Hilo from the water on a small-group stand-up paddle tour along the Wailoa River.

The tour includes views of Japanese-style bridges and opportunities to spot native birds and fish. Guests will also break at the King Kamehameha Statue to learn about Big Island’s history.

With a maximum of 7 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience suitable for all levels, including beginners. Participants must be at least 8 years old and under 250 lbs.

The tour includes all necessary equipment and refreshments.

Small-Group Experience

Although the Wailoa River SUP Adventure accommodates all skill levels, including beginners, it maintains a small-group size of no more than 7 participants. This ensures a personalized experience, allowing the guide to provide individual attention and adapt the tour to the group’s needs.

The small size also allows for easy maneuvering and navigation on the river, providing a more intimate connection with the surroundings. Participants must be at least 8 years old, with a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Suitable for All Levels

While the Wailoa River SUP Adventure caters to all skill levels, including beginners, it maintains a focus on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

With a maximum group size of 7 participants, the tour ensures personalized attention and guidance from the knowledgeable guides.

Whether you’re a first-time paddler or an experienced SUP enthusiast, the appropriate equipment and instruction are provided to ensure your comfort and confidence on the water.

The tour’s moderate physical fitness requirement means participants of various abilities can participate and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of Hilo’s waterways.

Inclusions and Meeting Point

The tour package includes a stand-up paddle board, paddles, and life vests, ensuring your safety and comfort on the water.

This tour package includes essential equipment like stand-up paddle boards, paddles, and life vests for your safety and comfort on the water.

You’ll also enjoy snacks and local juice to refuel during the tour.

The Ocean Stewardship Fee of $1 per guest is collected upon arrival.

The tour meets at Hilo Ocean Adventures, located at 1717 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720.

At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the same meeting point.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or back problems.

Exploring the Wailoa River

As guests embark on the Wailoa River SUP Adventure, they’ll be immersed in Hilo’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

Paddling along the tranquil waters, they’ll witness:

• Picturesque Japanese-style bridges spanning the river

• Native birds soaring overhead and darting between the lush vegetation

• Vibrant schools of tropical fish swimming beneath the clear surface

The tour pauses at the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, where guests can learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this revered Hawaiian figure.

This intimate, small-group experience provides a serene and engaging exploration of Hilo’s natural wonders.

Spotting Native Wildlife

As guests glide along the tranquil waters of the Wailoa River, they’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of native wildlife.

Keen-eyed paddlers may catch glimpses of colorful native fish darting below the surface. Above, they might spot graceful white egrets or the distinctive silhouettes of black-crowned night herons hunting for prey.

With luck, guests may even witness the endangered Hawaiian coot, recognizable by its white bill and forehead shield.

The endangered Hawaiian coot, with its distinctive white bill and forehead shield, may grace guests with a sighting along the river.

The river’s lush, verdant banks provide a natural habitat for these indigenous species, allowing visitors to enjoy Hilo’s vibrant ecosystem.

Learning About Big Island’s History

During the stand-up paddle tour, guests have the opportunity to learn about Big Island’s history at a special stop near the King Kamehameha Statue.

The guide provides insight into:

• The life and legacy of King Kamehameha, the first monarch to unite the Hawaiian Islands under one rule.

• The significance of the statue, which stands as a symbol of his leadership and the islands’ rich cultural heritage.

• How the Wailoa River and surrounding area played an important role in the island’s history, serving as a hub for trade, transportation, and community gatherings.

Reviews and Pricing

The stand-up paddle tour has received 3 reviews with a rating of 4.7 stars across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Customers highlight the guide’s adaptability and knowledge of local history. The tour is priced from $100.80 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience and have the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour’s moderate physical fitness requirement and limitations for certain guests suggest it’s suitable for most participants seeking an intimate, educational paddling adventure along Hilo’s Wailoa River.

The Sum Up

The Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Statue SUP Adventure offers an immersive experience for visitors of all skill levels. Glide through serene waters while admiring Japanese-style bridges and spotting native wildlife. With personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, guests can learn about the Big Island’s rich history. This small-group tour provides an enchanting way to connect with Hilo’s natural beauty.