From the moment I arrived at Big Island Climbing in Hilo, Hawaii, I knew I was in for a thrilling adventure. This place is not just a climbing facility; it's an experience that embodies the spirit of aloha and adventure wrapped in one. We have been here many times and will continue just the same!
The routes are meticulously designed, offering challenges for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. Whether you’re looking to conquer your fears, improve your skills, or simply have a great time, Big Island Climbing has something for everyone. The variety of walls and the scenic backdrop of Hawaii make every climb feel unique and exhilarating.
What truly sets Big Island Climbing apart, though, is the incredible warmth and professionalism of the owner and the staff. From the get-go, they make it clear that while fun is the main agenda, safety is paramount. The owner is not only passionate about climbing but also deeply committed to ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. He is exceptionally nice, always ready with a tip to improve your climbing, or a friendly chat to make you feel welcome.
The emphasis on safety adds to the experience, as it allows climbers to push their limits without fear. The clear, concise safety instructions and well-maintained equipment mean that all you need to focus on is climbing to your heart's content.
Beyond climbing, the sense of community here is palpable. The owner has fostered an environment where everyone - staff and climbers - treats one another with respect and kindness. It's this atmosphere, combined with the stunning location and excellent facilities, that makes Big Island Climbing more than just a climbing gym; it's a place where memories are made.
In conclusion, my visit to Big Island Climbing was nothing short of amazing. The fun, the challenges, and the sheer beauty of climbing in Hawaii, coupled with the kindness and professionalism of the owner and staff, made for an unforgettable adventure. If you're ever in Hilo and looking for an experience that combines excitement with the aloha spirit, Big Island Climbing is the place to be. Five stars...
Read moreFirst time going here. Our welcome started off very rudely from the owner. My sons tried to run on the mats and before I could grab them she felt the need to scold them, I was taken back, and had to respect her. Then again let me be the parent. Instead of talking to me, she came off very delegating with demands. These are kids your talking to, I was the only adult in my group (ages 3,7,14). Plus, to them your a stranger!
The cost of climbing was not bad at all it was very decent considering you pay for the day. The rules of the place was very mind boggling considering the environment being presented to us during the little orientation, before the kids could climb.
Again coming from a safety background, there was so many things unsafe, lets list somethings below.
Its too hot for the type of activity (climbing)...I was standing and sweating like I was running a marathon. The amount of plugs going into an extension bar from a limited supply source. The fans are blowing dust and not enough air for the space size Peoples sweat is falling on the mats and not once did she spray or disinfect it. I carry alcohol spray in my bag, but I didn't want to be dis-respectful. The mats move, they are not secured, if someone falls, and someone accidentally moves the mats, the falling person could be injured. I expected climbers to be on a safety harness in case they lose grip and fall. Basically you fall at your own risk. The walls and the mats are filthy.
Overall, I let me kids enjoy them selves, of course watched them like a hawk to make sure they weren't in harms way. My rule to my kids was the second you think about falling, its time to climb down. Best believe they disinfected themselves before sitting in my car and when we got home they went straight to the showers.
This place is an activity for older kids, I wont spend monies for my 3 yr old to climb here all of 2ft anymore for 5-10minutes in total. The 2 other kids made it worth it. My little one I paid for him to roll on the mat. The main thing he had fun and that is all that...
Read moreLove this climbing gym! This place has become a gathering place for community members to come together and have fun. I would like to share some constructive criticisms because there is room for improvement. The routes seem to never change and this gets boring. I feel they are always promising the routes will change soon and then another 4 months goes by. Other large climbing gyms I have been to have way more routes to change but keep consistent with 4-6 week cycles or more. This climbing gym is tiny and could definitely be changed more often. In a year of climbing here, the entire gyms routes have probably changed about 2-3 times.
Another complaint is safety. The owners don't bother to keep the mats flush with the wall and sometimes there is a 4 inch gap which in an unlikely fall your feet could land on concrete. In other gyms, the seams between mats are covered for safety purposes. The black and brown mats are not to standard and poor quality and I have seen people get close to falling onto the concrete from the...
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