Best Family Friendly Beaches in Hilo, Hawaii

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.

Kalapana Beach, located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. The area is known for its volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches, which are a result of past lava flows. Visitors can explore the nearby Kalapana region, which has been shaped by volcanic activity, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Hawaii's geological history. The beach itself is a popular spot for those interested in exploring volcanic formations and experiencing the raw power of nature. The surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking and exploring volcanic landscapes, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Kalapana Beach is part of a larger volcanic landscape that includes the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This proximity to the national park enhances the area's appeal, offering visitors a chance to explore volcanic landscapes, lava tubes, and steam vents. The beach and its surroundings are also steeped in cultural significance, with many historical sites and traditional Hawaiian communities nearby.

Despite its rugged beauty, Kalapana Beach is not typically a swimming destination due to strong currents and volcanic activity. Instead, it serves as a base for exploring the surrounding volcanic landscapes and experiencing the unique natural and cultural heritage of the area.

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.