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Kayak – Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Statue Adventure

Quick Details

Kayak Guest

Price per person

$ 99

Double - Kayak Guests

Price per double - kayak (2 guests)

$ 198

Tour Rating

Easy

Calm river water, no ocean swell. If you have never kayaked, this is the one. Near the mouth of the river you may feel light wind or tide. Our guides check conditions every morning and make the call.

Easy

Calm, protected water. No experience needed. Good for beginners and families.

Moderate

Some waves, current, or uneven footing. Comfortable swimmer with some ocean time.

Advanced

Rough water, surge, or depth. Strong swimmer with real experience in the activity.

Expert

Our most demanding conditions. Experienced guests only, on the best days.

Book at your level. Check the rating and the local weather before you book. Be honest about your experience.

View Local Weather

Kayakers paddling down the Wailoa River in Hilo
Kayaking down the Wailoa River.

About the Tour

An easy hour on Hilo’s long water. Wailoa means “long water,” and this river runs right through the heart of town. You paddle under Japanese-style arched bridges and through mangrove-lined channels, with your guide out front.

Your destination is the King Kamehameha statue. We stop there for snacks and a break while your guide tells how the 1946 and 1960 tsunamis reshaped this stretch of Hilo, and why the park around you exists.

No experience needed. Your guide gets you set up on the bank and shows you the basics before you push off.

Price & What’s Included

Single Kayak

$99

Double Kayak (2 guests)

$198

Tour Includes

  • Guide, small group
  • Kayak, paddle, and life jacket
  • Paddling basics before you launch
  • Snacks at the King Kamehameha statue
  • Stories of Hilo’s history along the way

Rather Stand Up?

Same river, same statue, on a paddleboard. Book the Wailoa River SUP.

Want a longer paddle?
Try the Hilo Bay & Coconut Island kayak.

Ready to paddle?
Pick your date and choose single or double kayaks when you book.

Book Your Tour

Requirements & What to Bring

Requirements

  • No experience needed.
  • Minors paddle with a parent or guardian.
  • Comfortable getting a little wet.

What to Bring

  • Quick-dry clothes or a swimsuit
  • Water shoes or sturdy sandals
  • Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Phone in a waterproof case (we sell them at the shop)

Tour Details

  • Meet: At our shop, 1717 Kamehameha Ave.
  • Duration: About 1 hour.
  • Route: Down the Wailoa River to the King Kamehameha statue and back.
  • Water: Calm river, no ocean swell.

King Kamehameha statue surrounded by palm trees in Hilo
Your destination, the King Kamehameha statue. We stop here for snacks and a break.

What You’ll See

Here is what guests commonly see on this tour.

  • Japanese-style arched bridges over the river.
  • Mangrove-lined channels.
  • Birds and fish along the riverbanks.
  • The King Kamehameha statue and the park around it.

FAQs

I have never kayaked. Is that okay?

Yes. This is our easiest paddle. Your guide shows you the basics on the bank before you launch.

Single or double kayak?

Doubles are great for couples or a parent with a kid. Singles give you full control. Choose when you book.

Will I get wet?

A little. Paddle splash is part of it. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a dry layer for after.

Can I bring my phone?

Yes, in a waterproof case. We sell them at the shop.

What if the weather is bad?

Our guides check conditions before every tour. If it is not safe, we do not go, and we will work with you to reschedule.

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