We Tried It: Bumper Tubing at Hawai‘i Water Sports Center
We sped through the water holding on to a bumper tube for dear life.
What: 20 minutes of bumper tubing
Who: A couple, with a mother stepping in as our photographer
Where: Hawai‘i Water Sports Center at the Koko Marina Center
When: Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m.
Cost: $63 per person
Photo: Lucas Kamata
The day just started, and I was already on the water, gripping the sides of a giant tube, wondering if this was a great idea or if I had made a huge mistake. When I heard about bumper tubing at Hawai‘i Water Sports Center, I thought it sounded fun—a relaxing float with a bit of speed thrown in. Little did I know I was in for a workout and an adrenaline rush wrapped into one.
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When we arrived our excitement was palpable, but so was our uncertainty. A friendly staff member handed us waiver forms to sign. I had no idea what to expect, but with the harbor just outside, there was no way I wasn’t going to dive in headfirst.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
My girlfriend and I suited up and climbed into the tube. I was already second-guessing my decision as I tightened my grip on the handles, preparing for whatever came next. The boat revved up, and we were off. At first, it was smooth sailing—just enough speed to feel the breeze in our faces and the spray of water hitting us. But that was short-lived.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
As soon as the boat picked up speed, the tube started bouncing over the waves, and hanging on was not easy. Every second felt like I was holding on for dear life, trying to keep my body from flying off the tube. It was a workout but was also exhilarating. There were moments when the tube would hit a bump, and the whole thing would leave the water entirely.
I did, in fact, fly off twice. The first time wasn’t so bad—similar to a fall while surfing. The second time was an enjoyable shock. I didn’t just fall; I skipped across the water like a rock, flipping in the air and splashing back down again. My body was thrown this way and that, as if I were inside a washing machine.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
But even with all the wild moments of feeling like I was about to get launched into the stratosphere, the experience lasted just long enough to leave me breathless, laughing and with the craziest forearm pump. By the time we pulled back, I was ready to try their other activities.
Photo: Lucas Kamata
The cost is $63 per person for a 20-minute bumper tube ride that flies by. Depending on weight restrictions, you can ride solo or with up to two other people. The adventure kicks off when you check in at your reservation time.
Tips:
- Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel—you’ll get wet!
- Sunscreen is a must, but remember to apply it before boarding the boat since spray sunscreen is prohibited.
- If you’re bringing extra items, don’t worry—storage bins are available in the store to keep your belongings safe while on the water.
Available Monday through Friday (except holidays) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Hawai‘i Water Sports Center, 7192 Kalaniana‘ole Hwy E110, hawaiiwatersportscenter.com, @hiwatersports
