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Hilo Hawaii- Itinerary for a Paddle in Hilo Bay

Writer's picture: volcanoeshikingguides@gmail.comvolcanoeshikingguides@gmail.com

Hawaii outdoor water adventures are a must-do for anyone seeking an adrenaline-filled experience, and Hilo Bay provides the perfect setting. Paddling in Hilo Bay can be done through various means including SUP, outrigger canoe or kayak. The history of paddling in Hawaii dates back centuries ago where it was used as a mode of transportation between islands but has since evolved into a popular recreational activity enjoyed by many tourists and locals alike. To embark on this exciting adventure, one needs to come prepared with the right gear such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water bottles and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. With calm waters and picturesque views of Mauna Kea mountain in the background, paddlers can explore hidden coves and beaches only accessible through waterways while discovering marine wildlife such as sea turtles and dolphins along the way. Whether you're an experienced paddler or new to this type of adventure sport, exploring Hilo bay is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving for more!P

Let's take a Paddle!!

Put in your SUP or Kayak at Reeds bay and paddle around Hilo bay and Coconut Island. See turtles, fish and enjoy the cool fresh water of reeds bay.


Reeds BayReeds Bay is located within Hilo Bay between Radio Bay and the Wailoa Harbor on Hawaii Island's east side.

On a typical day, Reed's Bay is a serene swimming spot, especially attractive to parents holidaying with their children. The onshore breeze causes surface ripples and creates mini waves lapping the shoreline. This peacefulness is achieved through the Hilo Breakwater, a two-mile long barrier made of stacked lava rocks. In periods of fierce winds, the breakwater bears the brunt of the might ocean swells rolling in from the open sea; something visitors are often drawn to witness.




At the mouth of Reed’s Bay Beach Park, there is a natural pond called “Ice Pond” known to locals. This secluded spot features coral-lined surroundings and is fed by a fresh spring below that rises from the ocean floor and mixes with saltwater. It provides the perfect refuge for a refreshing dip on those hot and muggy summer days in Hilo, providing an odd sensation of warmth and coolness at the same time; the upper body can feel warm from the incoming ocean water, while down below is a cool, inviting spring.



The ocean floor of Reed’s Bay is made up of white sand and chunks of coral rubble. The coral material was left behind by the dredging of Hilo Harbor in the early 20th Century as part of the project to build a deepwater port. Since the rubble was deposited in the bay, it has slowly mixed with the black volcanic sand to form patches of grey.



Reed's Bay is incredibly popular due to the plethora of sea creatures that may be spotted, yet this beach park also includes some land-based wildlife. This includes the notorious Hawaiian Goose, or “Nene” as they are more commonly known. The nene is a medium-sized black and brown bird with distinctive striping patterns, which was appointed as Hawaii's state bird in 1957. Unfortunately, their population has always been threatened due to their being extensively hunted during the colonial era; thanks to conservation efforts, however, the global population presently numbers only a few thousand and is restricted to Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Kauai and Big Island.



Google Image

Paddle around Coconut Island or Mokuola- In Hawaiian, Mokuola means "Island of Life" (Moku means "Island" and Ola means "Life"). There are two possible explanations for why, [1] that it used to hold an ancient temple dedicated to healing, and [2] that it served as a refuge for Hilo's residents.



Take a break from paddle and jump off tower!

Rent paddle boards or kayak here:

https://www.hilooceanadventures.com/rentals/

$45 stand up paddle board for 3 hours

$70 Kayak rental 3 hours


After paddle Grab a bite to eat. I suggest to go from either

Suisan Fish Market- Fresh poke plates

or Hilo Bay cafe



After your paddle get a bite to eat at either Susian or Hilo bay café. Get food to go and explore Liliʻuokalani Gardens a 30-acre Japanese-style garden features tranquil ponds, immaculate lawns, and vibrant flora. Take a peaceful stroll through the gardens and find a quiet corner to sit and eat your wonderful food.




A 24.67-acre Japanese garden was dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to Hawai'i's first Japanese immigrants who worked on the island of Hawai'i's sugar cane fields.


For desert head to Hawaii Island Ice Distributors- this is inside the park.





I had cucumber mint!


Beaches and snorkeling

Carlsmith Beach Park- The rocks form a natural barrier to keep the area inside calmer. Great for snorkeling and swimming. Lots of fish and turtles. There's a lifeguard.




Richardsons Beach Park- Just a litlle further from Carlsmith Beach park is Wai'uli or Richardsons beach park. This is s little less protected but fun place to snorkel and play in waves. This beach does have lifeguard.



Honu or turtle sun bathing at Wai'uli beach park.




Rainbows and Waterfalls:

Rainbow Falls is a waterfall located in Hilo, Hawaii. It is 80 ft tall and almost 100 ft in diameter. The falls are part of the Hawai'i State Parks. There is no fee to see the falls. At Rainbow Falls, the Wailuku River rushes into a large pool below.


ʻAKAKA FALLS STATE PARK- Pleasant self-guided walk through lush tropical vegetation to scenic vista points overlooking the cascading Kahuna Falls and the free-falling ‘Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge. The 0.4-mile loop footpath requires some physical exertion. (65.4 acres)

Daily – 8:00am to 5:00pm Entrance fee takes *Credit Card Only*

  • Hawaii Residents = Free w/ Drivers Lic. or ID

  • Non-Residents = $5.00 Per Person

  • Children 3 and Under = Free

Parking Fee

*Credit Card Only*

Non-Commercial Vehicles

  • Residents = No Charge w/ID or DL

  • Non-Residents = $10




More fun things to do in Hilo aera!

Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden- Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden attracts photographers, gardeners, scientists, and nature lovers from around the world. We offer over a mile of trails lined with thousands of rare and endangered flora from all parts of the globe. It is a magical place where paths and bridges guide you over mountain-fed streams and waterfalls.


No matter what part of the island you’re coming from, we encourage you to take the Scenic Route (Old Mamalahoa Rd).



Sometimes, GPS will misdirect you down a dirt road (Old Onomea Rd.) While this route will get you here, it is not recommended since the Scenic Route is easier (and prettier too)!

From Route 19, we are 15 min North of Hilo.



Take Route 19 along the Hamakua Coast and look for the blue Scenic Drive sign between mile markers 10 and 11. On the makai (ocean) side of the highway, turn onto Kulaimano Road. From Kulaimano, take a right onto Old Mamalahoa Rd, known as the Scenic Route. Our Visitor Center is about 1.5 miles on the right.


Kaumana Caves- A lava flow from Mauna Loa stopped just short of Hilo in 1881. At Kaumana Caves Park, explore the lava tube created by the flow. Enter through a collapsed skylight. Visitors can expect to see somewhere under two miles from the entrance of Kaumana Caves even though the tube may measure over twenty miles long.


It is about four miles from downtown Hilo to a parking area along Kaumana Drive. You can access the Kaumana Caves by crossing the road. The stairs descend into an open area where the roof of the cave collapsed. A sign beside the stairs reads:


There are unseen dangers inside this cave, which may result in death or serious injury. Cave exploration is inherently dangerous. The danger increases in a seismically active and flood-prone area.




A confusing aspect of the Kaumana Caves lava tube is that some parts are preserved as a park, while others are privately owned (below private property). It is unclear which parts of the lava tube are off limits, but visitors are allowed to enter the public areas of the caves.





Let's Eat: My favorite restaurants!

Moon and Turtle: feature a frequently changing international menu with a pacific emphasis and focus on locally

sourced ingredients. Since we are small, we highly recommend reservations! Please call us at (808) 961-0599 to set one up!


Living Food For Living Folks Big Island Booch Kombucha and Organic Nitro Cold Brew Coffee on tap daily. Local grass-fed burgers Local beer, wine, and craft cocktails Eclectic menu designed to be delicious for everybody. Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Gluten -Free and Conscious Omnivores alike! Healthy hand crafted meals utilizing organic and local ingredients whenever possible. House made fermented foods such as saurkraut, kimchi and pickles.



Pineapples-https://pineappleshilo.wordpre…Island-inspired fresh cuisine, including local caught fish, farm fresh fruits and vegetables. Locally-produced beers, specialty cocktails and a comprehensive wine list. The only open-air restaurant in downtown Hilo! Entertainment Thursday thru Sunday. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to Pau.



Deserts:


Nicosice-The best ice cream joint in all of the Big Island. The sorbet ice cream is certified vegan and organic, and for those with lactose intolerance like me, it is a must-try because it is made from coconut milk. http://www.nicocohawaiiangelat…



home made waffle cone!


Puna Chocolate Company-http://www.punachocolate.com

Are you a cholcohalic!? Well, this place is for you if you want to visit Chocolate heaven.





My favorite is banana chocolate smoothy with coconut milk. Too good.


Hilo's Farmers market offers fresh fruit and food.


Exploring the history of Hilo, Hawaii is a captivating experience that immerses you in its rich culture. From its deep connection to Polynesian traditions to the unique blend of cultures that call it home today, each visit reveals something new and unexpected. Whether you’re looking for a way to explore the past or an exciting opportunity to learn about other cultures, there’s no better place than Hilo, Hawaii. So come join us on this cultural journey as we uncover the hidden gems of this beloved city!





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