Best Beaches in Hilo

Carlsmith Beach Park, located in South Hilo on the Island of Hawaiʻi, is a charming destination known for its tranquil atmosphere and exciting water activities. The park features large protected saltwater lagoons ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and spotting sea turtles. Its proximity to Hilo town makes it a convenient spot for both beach relaxation and exploration of local attractions. Visitors can enjoy walking through the park's picturesque pathways, which meander through lush tropical vegetation along the coastline. Despite lacking a sandy shoreline, the park's well-kept lawn offers a perfect setting for picnics and sunbathing. The park's history and local name are intertwined with the community's heritage, adding to its unique charm.
Carlsmith Beach Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot local fauna and marine life. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife watching when the animals are most active. The park is officially named after a prominent Hawaiian figure but is locally known as Carlsmith, reflecting its historical connection to a family that may have owned the land.
The park is convenient for a day trip, combining beach activities with exploration of cultural sites around Hilo, such as the Lyman Museum and the Pacific Tsunami Museum. Visitors can also explore nearby beaches like Richardson Ocean Park and Onekahakaha Beach Park for more snorkeling and swimming experiences.

Onekahakaha Beach Park is a serene and family-friendly destination located in Hilo, Hawaii. It is known for its large, shallow pools protected by natural lava and a man-made lava rock wall, making it an ideal spot for families with children to swim safely. The park offers a picturesque setting with grassy areas, shade trees, and paved ocean-side walking paths, perfect for picnics and relaxation. Lifeguards are present during weekends and summer months, adding an extra layer of safety. The beach is also a great spot for spotting marine life, including sea turtles and tropical fish. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and tidepooling, while nearby attractions like the Hilo Farmer's Market and downtown Hilo provide additional entertainment options.

The beach is part of the Keaukaha area, often referred to as the 'Banana Belt' of Hilo due to its sunny weather even when other parts of Hilo are rainy. This makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the sun and sea. The nearby Hilo Beach House Inn offers luxury accommodations with ocean views, providing a convenient and upscale place to stay for those visiting the beach.

Onekahakaha Beach Park is easily accessible from downtown Hilo via Kalanianaole Street, making it a convenient day trip or a longer stay option for those exploring the Big Island.

Coconut Island Park, located in Hilo, Hawaii, is a picturesque public park on the waterfront. It is connected to the mainland by a short footbridge near Banyan Drive and offers stunning views of downtown Hilo and the surrounding mountains. The park is known as Moku Ola, meaning 'Island of Life' in Hawaiian, and has a rich history, including being a place of refuge in ancient times. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and exploring the island's small beaches and tide pools. The park also features a 20-foot tower for jumping into the ocean, which is a popular attraction for kids and thrill-seekers alike.

The island has been affected by several tsunamis, and remnants of these events can be seen in the park. Coconut Island provides a serene and fun environment for both locals and tourists, with its large grassy areas perfect for relaxation and picnics. It is also a great spot for photography, offering beautiful views of Hilo Bay and the nearby volcanoes on clear days.

The proximity to other attractions like Liliuokalani Gardens and the Hilo Farmers Market makes Coconut Island a convenient stop during a visit to Hilo.

Leleiwi Beach Park, located in Hilo, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. It is renowned for its series of natural lava rock pools, fresh water springs, and tide-pool coves, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and observing marine life like Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. The park includes amenities such as covered pavilions for picnics, BBQ pits, showers, and paved walkways. Although it doesn't have a traditional sandy beach, the area provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is adjacent to Richardson Beach Park.
The beach is ideal for those looking to relax, snorkel, or watch surfers ride the waves. Its proximity to downtown Hilo also makes it convenient for exploring local attractions. The park's unique volcanic rock formations provide a fascinating backdrop for exploration and offer opportunities for sunbathing in sheltered areas.
Leleiwi Beach Park is a must-visit destination on the Big Island, especially for nature lovers and those interested in water activities. Its scenic surroundings and rich marine life make it a great choice for both families and adventure seekers.

Richardson Beach, also known as Richardson Ocean Park, is a scenic and tranquil black sand beach located in Hilo, Hawaii. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is the only beach in the Hilo area with both black and green sand. The beach offers excellent conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The presence of tide pools and a protected cove creates a family-friendly environment, while the surrounding freshwater springs add to its unique water conditions.
The beach's history is intriguing, as it is named after its original owners, George and Elsa Richardson. Today, it is a public park, offering amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard on duty. The park is open from 7 AM to 7 PM, making it accessible for morning and late afternoon visits.
Visitors can enjoy the nearby Lava Tree State Monument, Wailuku River State Park, and the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, providing a wealth of opportunities for exploration beyond the beach itself.

Keaukaha Beach Park is a scenic waterfront area located just east of downtown Hilo, Hawaii. It spans about one-third of a mile along the Hilo waterfront, offering ample lawns and easy access to the waters of Puhi Bay. The park is known for its rocky shoreline and a hidden swimming hole, which is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The swimming hole is semi-protected, making it suitable for swimming when the pool is calm. The park's tranquil atmosphere and picturesque views make it an ideal place for picnics and strolls. However, it lacks restrooms and other facilities, with only portable toilets sometimes available near the middle of the park.
Keaukaha Beach Park is also a great place to enjoy the sunset, with panoramic views of Mauna Kea and the quaint town of Hilo. The park hosts various community events and is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the ocean. Despite its beauty, the park has faced issues with long-term campers in the past, but efforts have been made to clean it up and maintain its appeal for day-use visitors.
Overall, Keaukaha Beach Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit, making it a must-visit destination in Hilo.

Hilo Bayfront Beach Park is a scenic spot located in downtown Hilo, Hawaii, offering breathtaking views of Hilo Bay and the Pacific Ocean. This park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, providing a community hub for socializing and enjoying the ocean air. It features a small black-sand beach, which is more suited for walking and admiring the views than lounging due to its coarse texture. The park is also a venue for cultural events and festivals, highlighting Hilo's rich cultural heritage.
The beach was once a bustling port for trading goods like sugar and pineapples but has evolved into a peaceful spot for relaxation. Despite its historical significance, the beach has faced erosion and pollution, affecting its natural beauty. However, recent renovations have helped restore some of its charm.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and picnicking, though swimming is not recommended due to murky waters. The park's proximity to downtown Hilo makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore local attractions like the Hilo Farmers Market and the Pacific Tsunami Museum.