2.5 hours • Ages 8+ • Explore the unseen side of Hawai‘i Island!
Discover the vibrancy of Sea Turtle Cove on Hawai‘i Island with a guided 1 tank shore dive. Join local pros for an unforgettable underwater journey among colorful reefs and graceful sea turtles near Hilo.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable swimming and able to manage moderate physical activity underwater.
Wildlife
History
Hilo was once the royal capital of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i and remains rich in native cultural traditions, including marine stewardship.
Conservation
Local operators emphasize reef-safe practices and educate visitors to minimize human impact on sensitive Hawaiian coral reefs.
Hilo Ocean Adventures
2.5 hours • Ages 8+ • Explore the unseen side of Hawai‘i Island!
Hilo Ocean Adventures is a Hilo, Hawaii-based ocean activity operator offering a diverse selection of guided and rental experiences designed for visitors and locals. Trips include private big game fishing charters in Hilo Bay with a professional crew focusing on mahi mahi and ahi tuna, kayak rentals and guided paddles on the Wailoa River and Hilo Bay, surfboard and boogie board rentals, one-tank boat dives to explore tropical reefs, and cultural and scenic cruises such as the Cliffs of Hawai’i Onomea Waterfall Cruise. Seasonal event cruises include front-row 4th of July fireworks cruises and a festive New Year’s Eve cruise from Wailoa Boat Harbor. Kayak options range from self-guided three-hour rentals to 2-hour guided routes like the beginner-friendly Wailoa River paddle to the King Kamehameha Statue, the Hilo Bay and Coconut Island guided tour led by a knowledgeable local guide (limited to six guests), and the Myths & Legends Waterfall Adventure that covers roughly 2.5 miles and highlights Wailuku River waterfalls.
Safety and guest comfort are emphasized with complimentary life vests and maps for kayak rentals, snacks, drinks provided on select charters, and certified crews or dive professionals on boat trips. Fishing charters note sustainable practices to minimize local impact. Clear departure points near Wailoa Boat Harbor and a focus on local history, marine life, and experienced guides make Hilo Ocean Adventures a trusted provider of ocean experiences in Hilo.
Location
Hilo, Hawaii
Departures near Wailoa Boat Harbor
Tours Offered
10
Guided trips and rentals available
Small-Group Option
6 guests
Limited group size on select tours
Trip Lengths
1–3+ hrs
One-hour cruises to multi-hour rentals
Reserve private charters, guided kayaks, dives, and holiday cruises — departures commonly leave from Wailoa Boat Harbor.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect Hawaii’s coral ecosystems by applying reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water.
Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
Though dive equipment is provided, snorkeling gear can help during surface swims or brief snorkel stops.
Stay Hydrated Pre- and Post-Dive
Hawaii’s tropical climate can dehydrate divers—drink plenty of water before and after your dive.
Practice Neutral Buoyancy
Avoid contact with coral by mastering neutral buoyancy to protect fragile reef structures.
Wetsuit
Provides thermal protection in Hawaii’s variable water temperatures during spring diving.
spring
Mask and Snorkel
Essential for surface breathing and better visibility when diving or snorkeling.
summer
Dive Computer
Helps monitor depth and dive time to ensure safe decompression profiles.
fall
Dive Gloves
Protect hands from rough volcanic rocks and coral while exploring underwater.
winter