Hilo: Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Guided Kayaking Tour

Exploring the scenic waterways of Hilo, Hawaii is an adventure not to be missed. The Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Guided Kayaking Tour promises a unique opportunity to take in the region’s natural beauty and rich history. Paddling along the serene river, visitors can admire the picturesque Japanese-style bridges and keep an eye out for diverse wildlife. With experienced guides leading the way, this two-hour excursion offers a personalized and hassle-free experience, leaving participants eager to discover more about the captivating island of Hilo.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Guided Tours In Island Of Hawaii.

Key Points

• This 2-hour guided kayaking tour in Hilo takes participants along the Wailoa River to the King Kamehameha Statue, with diverse wildlife and scenic bridges.
• The tour is priced from $109 per person and is limited to groups of 5, with hotel pickup/drop-off and all necessary equipment provided.
• Participants must be at least 8 years old, weigh less than 264 lbs, and not have mobility issues or be pregnant.
• Guests will learn about the area’s history, including the impact of tsunamis, and explore the Wailoa River arboretum with the largest tree collection outside Africa.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, with reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and the scenic, relaxed experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The guided kayaking tour on the Wailoa River lasts 2 hours and is priced from $109.00 per person.

The tour group size is limited to 5 participants, and it’s conducted in English.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without an initial payment.

The tour includes a kayak, paddle, snacks, beverages, lifejackets, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

However, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or people over 264 lbs.

Participants should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen, and arrive 15 minutes early.

Activity Highlights

During the guided kayaking tour, participants can expect to visit several notable landmarks and observe a variety of natural wonders.

The tour begins with a visit to the iconic King Kamehameha Statue, which pays homage to the revered Hawaiian monarch.

As you paddle along the Wailoa River, you’ll have the opportunity to spot diverse fish and bird species, and cruise under the charming Japanese-style bridges that span the waterway.

The tour also provides insights into Big Island history, including the impact of tsunamis.

Lastly, the tour showcases the Wailoa River arboretum, which boasts the largest collection of trees outside of Africa.

Inclusions

The guided kayaking tour package includes a comprehensive set of equipment and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for participants.

Kayaks and paddles are provided, along with life jackets for safety. Complementary snacks and beverages, including water and local juices, are served during the tour.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy for guests to get to and from the starting point. Gratuities are also covered, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour aims to deliver a well-rounded and hassle-free adventure on the Wailoa River.

Participant Restrictions

Although the guided kayaking tour offers a serene and picturesque experience on the Wailoa River, there are certain participant restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments. Plus, the maximum weight limit is 264 lbs (120 kg).

Guests are required to provide their name, age, height, weight, and shoe size in advance to the local partner. This information is essential for the guides to assign the appropriate kayak and equipment.

Following these restrictions helps maintain a safe and comfortable tour for all participants.

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Preparation and Information

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable kayaking experience, guests should come prepared.

The tour operator recommends bringing sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and biodegradable sunscreen. Participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes prior to the activity start time.

It’s important to provide the local partner with guest details, including name, age, height, weight, and shoe size, in advance.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should be ready to paddle regardless of the weather conditions.

Customer Reviews

Customers have largely praised the Guided Kayaking Tour, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the friendliness and knowledge of the tour guides, noting their ability to share insights about the area’s history and wildlife.

While some expected more storytelling and cultural information, most expressed appreciation for the scenic beauty and relaxed pace of the experience.

Navigating the Wailoa River under Japanese-style bridges and past the King Kamehameha statue seems to have been a highlight for many.

Meeting the Guide

As you arrive at the meeting point for the Guided Kayaking Tour, the friendly and knowledgeable guide will greet you.

They’ll introduce themselves and provide a brief overview of the day’s activities. The guide is passionate about the Wailoa River and the surrounding area’s rich history and ecology.

They’ll explain the plan for the tour, ensuring you’re comfortable with the kayaking equipment and safety procedures.

Throughout the experience, the guide will share fascinating insights, pointing out significant landmarks and sharing stories about the region’s past.

Their enthusiasm and expertise will enhance your understanding and appreciation of this beautiful natural setting.

Booking and Payment

Booking this guided kayaking tour on the Wailoa River is straightforward. The tour company offers flexible booking options to suit your needs:

• You can reserve your spot online with no upfront payment, allowing you to secure your place and pay later.

• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing you with the flexibility to adjust your plans if necessary.

• Pricing starts at $109 per person, making this adventure accessible to a range of budgets.

• The group size is limited to 5 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Paddle?

No, participants can’t bring their own kayak or paddle for this tour. All necessary equipment, including kayaks and paddles, are provided as part of the tour’s inclusions.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour has an age limit – it’s not suitable for children under 8 years old. The experience is designed for participants aged 8 and up, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests on the guided kayaking tour.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The group size is limited to 5 participants, but the tour operator may accommodate larger private groups upon request. Private bookings allow for more personalized experiences.

Are There Options for Longer or Shorter Tours?

While the standard tour lasts 2 hours, the operator may offer longer or shorter durations upon request. Guests should inquire about any custom tour options to fit their preferences and schedule.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can book their spot without an initial payment, allowing for flexible planning.

Recap

The Hilo Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Guided Kayaking Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore Hilo’s stunning natural beauty. Paddling through serene waters, participants can admire the river’s picturesque surroundings, learn about the local history, and spot diverse wildlife. With all necessary equipment and convenient transportation included, this two-hour adventure offers a hassle-free and personalized experience for up to five participants, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Hilo.

You can check if your dates are available here: