Seasonal· Hawaii (Big Island)· Hawaii

Hilo Bay Winter Surge (October to mid-April)

19° 43.9′ N · 155° 4.2′ W · approximate

Hilo Bay is open to the northeast and its west shore deflects swell along the breakwater, so surge inside the harbor builds through the winter.

Practical

Coordinate is the breakwater anchorage (approx). Coast Pilot: 'Hilo Bay is subject to heavy surge, particularly between October and mid-April'; large ships take mooring buoys to breast off Pier 1 when surge is excessive, and wire mooring lines are not advised. There is frequently a heavy swell that causes considerable surge at the wharves. Anchored yachts: use long scope and chafe gear; check holding after each north swell event.

Best for

Timing a Hilo stay

Season

Oct-mid-Apr

Nearby