Fish calm near-shore waters off Hilo with a private captain and crew
3 hours
Up to 6 people
Gear, snacks, beverages
Head out from Hilo for a relaxed 3-hour near-shore fishing charter designed for beginners and families. Stay close to the coastline as your captain and crew help you cast, hook, and reel in local reef fish.
Ages 8+; minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Nonresidents of Hawaiʻi are required to purchase a fishing license.
Full refund if you cancel 30+ days in advance. No refund if you cancel within 30 days or no-show. Full refund if the operator cancels (for example, due to weather).
Bring a camera and reef-safe sunscreen. Pack a rain coat in case of rainy weather. If you’re prone to seasickness, take motion sickness medication before you arrive so it has time to take effect.
Yes. If you’re not a Hawaiʻi resident, you’re required to purchase a fishing license.
Snacks and beverages are provided. You’re encouraged to bring a sack lunch and any additional refreshments you want.
1717 Kamehameha Ave Hilo, HI 96720
Hilo Ocean Adventures shines when it comes to their instructors and guides, who consistently earn glowing praise from visitors. Shayna, a PADI-certified Master Scuba Diver Trainer, gets mentioned repeatedly for making both beginners and experienced divers feel confident and comfortable. Other guides like Morgan, Alex, and Aulki also stand out for their knowledge, patience, and genuine enthusiasm. The staff accommodates solo travelers and small groups without hesitation, often personalizing tours when group sizes are minimal. The marine life around Hilo delivers too—multiple turtles spotted within minutes, beautiful reefs, and memorable underwater encounters. The operation offers variety beyond diving, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling trips around Hilo Bay and beyond. Equipment rentals receive positive marks overall, though there's mention of some aging gear like fin straps. One review noted a particularly rough day where safety concerns and operational issues converged, though this appears to be an isolated incident during challenging surf conditions. The front desk staff, including Natalia, earns appreciation for being welcoming and helpful with scheduling. Most visitors leave calling their experience a highlight of their Big Island trip.
Just got off the whale watching boat with Morgan and Kevin. Even though we didn’t spot a whale they were really nice guys to hang out with. My daughter wasn’t feeling well and they were great making accommodations for us. Have a great time in Kauai Kevin, and thank you Morgan and your Egg McMuffins
kallas78
March 27, 2026
Just got off the whale watching boat with Morgan and Kevin. Even though we didn’t spot a whale they were really nice guys to hang out with. My daughter wasn’t feeling well and they were great making accommodations for us. Have a great time in Kauai Kevin, and thank you Morgan and your Egg McMuffins
kallas78
March 27, 2026