Tram collision at Hilton Waikōloa Village prompts suspension of service

Emergency crews responded Saturday night to a collision involving the internal tram system at the Hilton Waikōloa Village resort on the Big Island, according to hotel guests.

Two trams ran into each other at about 8 p.m., causing the suspension of tram services for resort guests until further notice.

A couple visiting from Alaska, speaking anonymously, said: “The two trams just ran into each other full of people.”

Witnesses said the collision occurred across from the Nui Italian Restaurant.

A spokesperson at Hilton Waikōloa Village confirmed the collision and told Big Island Now that emergency services were contacted immediately and that guests were assessed on site. No injuries were reported.

Hilton Waikōloa Village spans about 62 acres along the Kohala Coast and operates the internal tram system to transport guests between the resort’s lobby, guest towers, restaurants and other amenities.

According to the resort’s website, the tram runs along a dedicated track parallel to the resort’s waterways and is commonly used by guests to avoid walking long distances across the property.

A statement from the resort said: “The well-being, safety and security of our guests and team members are of paramount importance, and we continue to make every effort to ensure all practices and standards are in line with strict safety and security protocols,”

“We remain available to guests to offer any additional assistance needed. For those requiring transportation, we encourage guests to contact the front desk for details.”

The Alaska couple said that prior to the accident, they interacted with a hotel employee they believe was the tram conductor.

“He was so rude and seemed off,” they said. Later witnesses said they heard a “loud boom from the crash.”

The couple said that as of Sunday morning, they had received a text message from the resort advising them to contact the front desk for transportation assistance, but provided no further information about the incident.