Aloha Arleen,
Reeds Bay in Hilo is one alternative on the Hilo side. For information on how the State system works please call the Island Harbormaster at 808-329-4997. For Radio Bay which is another alternative where the USCG and Customs and Matson container yard is then call 808-933-8850. Please call as soon as possible to get an idea of how the system works. They are really becoming stringent on the rules and space is filling up. I just talked yesterday witha a Harbormaster named Pat Ryan and he says they get 20 calls a week wanting to find a place to keep boats.
I must tell you that I've never been more angry at a government system as I am with Hawaii DLNR - Boating. They are absolutely the worst. Their excuse is always that they never have enough money, however, the money they get is spent frivolously. The Hawaii State government has no sympathy or aloha for boaters and just plain doesn't care. Its been that way for at least 30 years that I know of. I thought it would change with Governor Lingle but it actually got worse.
For example, on the East side of the island there is not one safe boat ramp where a sailboat can launch with the rig up. If you want to launch a trailerable sailboat with the rig up you need to drive 100 plus miles to Kona.
Our club at
www.hilo-sailing.org will welcome you but we have no extra moorings or slips and even if we did the State would not let us sublet to you. We have to lock step with the rules, you know.
I'll stop venting now!
Regards,