Wilson's By the Bay
Experience the best shave ice in Hilo with unique tropical flavors and generous portions, served with genuine aloha.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Wilson's By the Bay
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the best shave ice in Hilo with unique tropical flavors and generous portions, served with genuine aloha.
"Best shave ice in Hilo. Best taste. Friendly staff. Best price. Highly recommend!"
Consider Sharing Portions
Expect large servings; consider sharing to enjoy more flavors or avoid waste. Bring napkins!
Check the Specials Board
Look for additional flavor options and unique combinations on the specials board inside.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Dessert Shop
Price
$
Phone
(808) 969-9191
Address
141 Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shave Ice Extravaganza
Indulge in Hilo's best shave ice with distinct, tropical flavors and generous portions. A must-try treat!
Loco Moco Origin
Savor loco moco, a dish originating from Hilo in the 1940s, at this local favorite.
Friendly Local Charm
Experience warm, friendly service from the owner who has been a part of the community for years.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Consider Sharing Portions
Expect large servings; consider sharing to enjoy more flavors or avoid waste. Bring napkins!
Check the Specials Board
Look for additional flavor options and unique combinations on the specials board inside.
Beat the Crowds
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Build Your Own Masterpiece
Pick up to 3 flavors for your shave ice and choose from toppings like creme or Li Hing Mui.
Tips
from all over the internet
Consider Sharing Portions
Expect large servings; consider sharing to enjoy more flavors or avoid waste. Bring napkins!
Check the Specials Board
Look for additional flavor options and unique combinations on the specials board inside.
Beat the Crowds
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Build Your Own Masterpiece
Pick up to 3 flavors for your shave ice and choose from toppings like creme or Li Hing Mui.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wilson's By the Bay is widely praised for having the best shave ice in Hilo, with reviewers highlighting the distinct flavors, generous portions, and unique topping options like azuki beans and Li Hing Mui. The friendly, locally-owned atmosphere and the owner's care in crafting each treat are frequently mentioned positives. While it's a takeout-only spot with limited seating, the overall consensus is that the quality and taste make it a must-visit destination.
"I personally think they have the best shave ice in Hilo and probably on the island. When you order, small is not so small, but I'm not complaining. The flavors are great, and I love the add-ons. The owner is super nice and she has known my family for many years. If you're looking for good shave ice, this place is a must!"
Jose
"Great selections and options! Generous proportions. Be certain to read the specials board inside on the back wall. We enjoyed a Regular Deluxe Pineapple, Li Hing Moi, Lillikoi (passionfruit), and pineapple with cream."
Paula Holen
"Great quick option😋. This is take out only however, there is two benches on the side of the building that you can sit and enjoy. Prices reasonable and so many choices. Portions are large. There is parking on the side of the street. However, I did not see a parking parking lot. This is located directly across from pineapples and you could miss it if you didn’t have GPS."
Patty Spradling
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reviewers rave about the distinct flavors, generous portions, and the unique topping options like azuki beans and Li Hing Mui, often calling it the best shave ice in Hilo.
While specific dietary accommodations are not listed, traditional shave ice flavors are typically vegan. The ice cream add-on would not be vegan.
Wilson's By the Bay is primarily a takeout spot, with benches available outside to enjoy your shave ice treat.
Popular choices include Li Hing Mui, Hawaii Rainbow (banana, strawberry, vanilla), and tropical flavors like pineapple and passionfruit (Lilikoi).
There is no information on reservations. Due to potential lines, visiting during off-peak hours is recommended.
Loco moco is a popular Hawaiian dish originating in Hilo, consisting of rice, a burger patty, and gravy. Wilson's is noted as a place to try it.
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This shave ice place gets four stars and is a local favorite place in Hilo to eat. Right downtown off a side street, you’ll get fine shave ice with really cool and unusual pairings to experience like Hawaii Rainbow, Li Hing Mui and many tropical flavors to enjoy. Lines are long here at Wilson’s so enjoy the experience and find a nice shady spot to enjoy your delicious shave ice treat in HIlo.
11 Things you Must Eat on the Big Island
Out of all of the items on this list, loco moco may have the most fun name!. The dish came to be when kids in a sports club in Hilo in the 40’s asked for something different than a sandwich and got a bowl of rice with a burger patty on top and gravy.
11 Incredible Things To Do in Hilo Hawaii
Wilson’s by the Bay is one more stop we heard great recommendations about but didn’t get the chance to visit this trip. They make delicious shave ice and would be a great treat after a day of exploring.
18+ of the Best Places to Eat in Hilo (and some drinking options too) 2024
Hours: Tues-Wed: 12pm-5pm, Sat-Sun: 12pm-5pm, Closed Mondays and Fridays. Wilson’s By the Bay is THE best shave ice place in Hilo. Not only is it super affordable, they also have a ton of flavors.
We asked, you answered: The 15 best places to get shave ice in Hawaii
While some may think those two things don’t go together, all items from Island Snow are high quality, embrace Hawaiian roots, and are a testament to the owner James Kodama’s dream to “share aloha.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit