Are you looking for a fantastic way to cool off between all your Big Island adventures? If so, you need to put Wilson’s By the Bay on your radar. A true Hilo favorite, this little dessert shop goes big on the flavor in creating every last frozen treat on their menu. Then, they put their bright aloha spirit at the center of all they in hopes of making all their patrons feel right at home in an instant.
At this chill shop, their gigantic shave ice creations are the star of the show, of course. But they also have frozen yogurt, ice cream, and so much more, all awaiting your arrival. Don’t miss the chance to load up on flavorful crack seeds, too, like Sweet Sour Tamarind, Crispy Cherry, and Wet Lemon Peel. Their Li Hing Mui Gummies are worth a try as well, especially if you love sour gummy worms.
As for their frozen treats, you’re going to have a hard time choosing between all their amazing items. Thankfully, you’ll have plenty of time to make your decision because you’re bound to find quite a line going up to the counter. So, just hop behind the other eager patrons and set your sights on the menu board ahead.
As you hem and haw over the options, you’ll see the patrons ahead walking away with their own selections. If you spot something that looks oh-so-delicious, ask what they got, so you can get a taste as well. Once you make it up to the counter, be ready to put in your order fast. Although aloha is always a top priority, they like to get straight to business when it comes to serving their patrons.
After making your order, stick around to watch in awe as they build every last item to order. Then, grab your items and take them on the road to enjoy at your leisure. Although they have a bench out front, it’s usually full to the bring with kids and adults enjoying their shave ice and more. So, it’s best to plan on taking your items on a walk, so you can enjoy the flavors while going on even more Hilo explorations.
Fan favorites on the menu include:
Wilson’s Works
As their signature shave ice flavor, the Wilson’s Works is the way to go at least once. They make this treat by putting vanilla ice cream on the bottom of the shave ice. Then, they pour on the pineapple, lilikoi, and li hing mui syrups. Crème goes over it all at the end to bring all the flavors together.
Root Beer Float
When you want a refreshing drink filled with creamy flavors, go with the Root Beer Float. This classic drink starts with ice cream at the bottom of the cup. Over that, they add quality root beer, plus crème over the top to elevate the flavors even more.
Hawaiian Rainbow
The Hawaiian Rainbow shave ice takes you on a flavor journey to remember. They keep it simple by just putting shave ice in a cup. Then, they generously drizzle on the li hing mui, pineapple, and vanilla syrup to complete this picture of perfection.
Although they have premade shave ice creations available, you’re welcome to build your own if you wish. You just have to choose your size, flavors, and toppings to create your perfect dessert. Keep in mind that if you want vanilla ice cream or azuki beans on the bottom, you’ll need to select the Deluxe size, for sure.
Insider Tips:
-If you’re a fan of eco-friendly establishments, you’re going to love their use of paper cones, wooden spoons, and the like.
-Did you drop your sweet treat after finally getting it into your hands? Skip the tears in favor of letting the crew know just what happened. They will remake your treat with quickness, so you don’t have to miss out on all the best flavors around.
-Check the whiteboard for their specials before ordering.