Hilo, Hawaii, sits on the Big Island’s more rugged and rain-kissed eastern shore, famed for its waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and lush greenery. Yet when it comes to sailing tours near Hilo, Hawaii, options are notably scarce. Unlike the sunnier western coasts such as Kona, where chartered catamarans and day sails thrive amid calmer, clearer waters, Hilo's shoreline is shaped by rougher trade winds, strong ocean currents, and a rocky coastline that limits accessible harbors or leisure sailing activity.

This means if you're set on exploring the Big Island’s waters under sail, Hilo itself won’t offer dedicated sailing tours. Instead, adventurers usually pivot to nearby hubs like Kailua-Kona or Waimea for their ocean excursions, where calmer seas enable a wealth of catamaran sails, whale watching, and snorkeling tours.

However, Hilo remains an extraordinary base camp to absorb Hawaii’s outdoor wonders—from volcanic hikes on Mauna Loa to rainforest walks and waterfalls hikes near Akaka Falls State Park. The town delivers authentic Hawaiian culture, local farmers markets, and rich historical insights at the Pacific Tsunami Museum. And while sailing tours near Hilo, Hawaii may not be on the map, the island's spirit is fully alive in every other adventure you undertake.

For your trip planning, we recommend using Hilo as your home base to explore land and water adventures, then traveling westward for sailing tours specifically. Our nearby adventure listings cover the top activities around Hilo—from lava flows and waterfalls to botanical gardens and cultural sites. Explore those for true Big Island immersion that complements your sailing dreams with experiences uniquely suited to the Hilo coast’s fierce and vibrant character.