Discover the beauty of Hawai’i at Wailoa River State Recreation Area. From its lush greenery to its tranquil waters, this recreation area is a perfect spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking with family and friends. In this blog post, we’ll explore all that Wailoa River has to offer.
Wailoa River State Recreation Area Quick Facts
Planning to spend a day in Wailoa River State Recreation Area? Here are the activities and amenities available there:
- fishing
- hiking
- sightseeing
- ADA accessible
- boat ramp
- picnic tables
- restrooms
- paved walking paths
- water fountains
- pavilion rentals (for a fee)
- historical monuments
- art and cultural exhibitions
Introduction
Wailoa River State Recreation Area is a 131-acre park located in Hilo, on Hawaiʻi Island in the US state of Hawaii. The area is popular with visitors seeking outdoor activities such as walking, picnicking, fishing, and exploring the Wailoa Arts & Cultural Center. The name Wai Loa literally means “long water” and the park offers several features including boat fishing, memorials, footbridges and pavilion rentals.
Visitors can also take advantage of the covered picnic benches and walking trails, both of which are perfect for enjoying a sunny day at the park. Reservations for the pavilion can be made online 45 days in advance. With its variety of activities and amenities, Wailoa River State Recreation Area is a great place to explore and experience the beauty of Hawaiʻi Island from.
Features and Amenities
Wailoa River State Recreation Area is an idyllic park located in central Hilo, offering visitors a variety of features and amenities. The park boasts walking trails, covered picnic benches, rentable pavilions, boat fishing with permit, and the Wailoa Center arts and cultural center. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, hiking, and exploring the memorials in the park.
The park also provides restroom facilities and playground for visitors to enjoy. There is plenty of parking available for those looking to explore the park. Whether it be for relaxation, fishing, or just having a picnic with friends and family, Wailoa River State Recreation Area has something to offer everyone.
Picnicking
Picnicking at Wailoa River State Recreation Area is a great way to spend time with family and friends. The park has plenty of covered picnic benches, as well as open-air spaces, to enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner. Visitors can take advantage of the beautiful views of the river and surrounding nature while sharing a meal with friends and family. With its large green lawns and room to run, children will also be able to enjoy their time in the park. There are also boat fishing opportunities available for those looking for a more active adventure.
Walking Trails
Walking Trails in Wailoa River State Recreation Area make for a great way to explore the park’s plethora of sights and attractions. With paved trails crisscrossing the area near the river, visitors can take in all of the scenery, including Hawaiian culture displays and memorials. The bridges are especially stunning, offering visitors a gorgeous architectural piece to behold and walk over.
There are also plenty of picnic benches and pavilions available for rent, making it easy to find a place to take a break while enjoying the views. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or more of an outdoor adventure, Wailoa River State Recreation Area has something for everyone.
Boat Fishing
Boat fishing is a popular activity at Wailoa River State Recreation Area. Boaters can access the river with ease via boat ramp and pier. There are also plenty of designated fishing areas throughout the park, as well as tie-up points for boats. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the river is also great for paddling and other water sports. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful day on the river, Wailoa River State Recreation Area has something for everyone.
Covered Picnic Benches
Wailoa River State Recreation Area provides a great place to enjoy some outdoor time with family and friends. The park has plenty of covered picnic benches to rest, eat, and socialize under the shade of the trees. These benches are spread throughout the park, giving visitors easy access to a comfortable spot for lunch or a snack. Not only are these benches covered, but they provide a great view of the river and surrounding area.
Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby walking trails for an added outdoor experience. With these benches, Wailoa River State Recreation Area has become an even more attractive destination for picnicking and relaxation.
Hiking at Wailoa River State Recreation Area
At Wailoa River State Recreation Area, visitors can explore one of the easy hiking trails great for the whole family. The trails offer visitors a place for walking, relaxation, and wildlife viewing. For those looking for a more strenuous hike, there are also Next Generation Hiking Trail Maps with highlights such as creeks, rivers, natural play areas, picnic areas, shelters, view points and visitor centers.
The park also features footbridges that sway gracefully beside the river and provide a place for focused meditation. Pavilion rentals are also available for groups up to 60 people at $10/hour. Wailoa River State Recreation Area offers something for everyone so come and explore the park today!
Memorials
The Wailoa River State Recreation Area is home to a myriad of memorials. These memorials honor the heroic sacrifices of many brave soldiers throughout the years. Among these memorials are those dedicated to those who served and fell in the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Tsunami victims.
Visitors can also pay their respects at the ornate statue honouring King Kamehameha I, who founded the Kingdom of Hawaii. All of these memorials provide beautiful and peaceful places for focused meditation. Take time to explore and honor the memories of those who have served our country and community at this remarkable park.
Footbridges
Footbridges provide a unique and captivating experience for visitors to Wailoa River State Recreation Area. Arched bridges cross Waiakea Pond, a brackish lagoon in the park, offering a peaceful atmosphere for walking, contemplation, and relaxation. These bridges are a highlight of the park and can be used to gain access to the Japanese garden and teahouse, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful cup of tea.
With its picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere, Wailoa River State Recreation Area is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for those looking to take in the beauty of Hawaii’s natural environment.
Pavilion Rentals
At Wailoa River State Recreation Area, visitors can rent pavilions for special occasions. The 60-person pavilion is available for $15 per hour and the 500-person pavilion is available for $250 per day. Tables and chairs are not provided, but visitors can bring their own.
The park is a beautiful and scenic place to host gatherings with its bridges, trees, and Waiakea Pond. The pavilions provide a great opportunity for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park while celebrating special moments with friends and family.
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