The Secret Life of the Octopus: Why Hilo Is a Great Place to Spot Them

The Hawaiian day octopus—known locally as he'e—is one of the ocean's most fascinating and elusive creatures. With its incredible ability to camouflage, solve problems, and squeeze into the smallest crevices, the octopus seems almost otherworldly. If you’ve ever wanted to see one in the wild, Hilo is one of the best places in Hawaii to do it.

Why Octopuses Are So Fascinating Octopuses are cephalopods, relatives of squid and cuttlefish. They have three hearts, blue blood, and the ability to change both color and texture in an instant. They’re masters of disguise, capable of mimicking coral, rocks, and even fish. Highly intelligent, octopuses have been known to open jars, navigate mazes, and play with objects in captivity.

But the real magic happens in the wild—when you witness one hunting, flashing colors, or disappearing in a puff of ink.

Where to Spot Octopuses in Hilo Hilo’s dive sites provide the perfect mix of habitat, shelter, and calm water that octopuses love. Here are some of the best places to spot them:

• Coconut Island (Moku Ola): The patch reefs and sandy bottoms here are perfect hunting grounds for octopuses, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

• Richardson Ocean Park: The rocks and coral heads around this black sand beach create prime real estate for hiding and ambushing prey.

• Leleiwi Beach Park: This site has a variety of rocky crevices and small caves where octopuses retreat during the day.

• Night Dives at Leleiwi or Richardson’s: Nighttime is when octopuses are most active. With a dive light, you may see them on the hunt—changing colors, flashing patterns, or stalking crabs.

How to Improve Your Chances of Seeing One

• Move slowly and keep your eyes peeled for slight movement or a change in texture on a rock.

• Look for discarded crab shells—octopus dinner leftovers.

• Watch for a single curious eye peeking out of a hole or crevice.

• Avoid chasing or touching them—observe respectfully.

Why Hilo Is Ideal for Octopus Lovers Hilo’s relatively quiet dive sites mean less disruption to marine life, which increases your chances of seeing octopuses behaving naturally. The volcanic coastline creates a wealth of lava tubes and hiding spots, and local guides are often familiar with common areas where octopuses are spotted.

Did You Know?

• The Hawaiian word for octopus is he’e, which also means to slip or slide—describing the animal’s flowing movements.

• Octopuses can taste with their arms and use their suckers to manipulate objects.

• They are masters of escape, able to squeeze through openings the size of a coin.

Bring Your Camera—But Be Ready Octopuses are shy and fast. If you’re diving with an underwater camera, have it ready and set to wide-angle. Be patient—your best moment might happen when you least expect it.

Whether you’re a marine life photographer, a curious snorkeler, or an avid diver, Hilo’s waters are one of the best places in the Hawaiian Islands to encounter these incredible creatures. Spotting a he’e in the wild is always a memorable moment—and in Hilo, you have one of the best chances to do just that.