Craving a laid-back beach day on the lush side of the Big Island? In this post, I’ll share the remarkable beaches I discovered in Hilo—where nature’s raw beauty meets tranquil island life. These scenic beaches in Hilo, Hawaii offer black sand shores, calm lagoons, and family-friendly spots perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing!
Highlights:
Unique Beaches in Hilo, Hawaii:
1. Carlsmith Beach Park - 10-minute drive from Hilo
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Location:
Carlsmith Beach Park, Puhi Bay, Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Families, locals, casual snorkelers, and picnic lovers looking for calm waters and convenient facilities near Hilo.What I Love: ♥
The spring-fed swimming pools at Keaukaha Beach, the multiple shoreline access points, and the local-favorite vibe that makes it one of Hilo’s most beloved beach parks.- Visit Carlsmith Beach Park on Puhi Bay, a peaceful coastal park with several connected beaches just south of Hilo.
- Swim in the crystal-clear spring-fed pools at Keaukaha Beach, perfect for kids and casual wading.
- Snorkel or picnic along quieter stretches of shoreline past the water treatment facility for the best scenery and solitude.
- Relax with family-friendly amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, with lifeguards on duty on weekends and peak holidays.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available near the main beach entrances.Best time to visit:
Weekdays for fewer crowds. Weekends and holidays offer lifeguard coverage and more lively atmosphere.Local tips:
Keep walking—there are plenty of scenic and peaceful coves further down the park.Distance:
Just under 4 miles from downtown Hilo—about a 10-minute drive.How to Get to Carlsmith Beach Park:
From downtown Hilo, take Kalaniana‘ole Avenue east toward Keaukaha. The beach park is well marked with signage and has multiple entry points along the road.2. Reeds Bay Beach Park - 7-minute drive from Hilo
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Location:
Reeds Bay Beach Park, Banyan Drive, Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Peace-seekers, photographers, fishing enthusiasts, and travelers looking for an untouched, local-feeling coastal experience in Hilo.What I Love: ♥
The pristine shoreline, the refreshing chill of Ice Pond waters, and the authentic atmosphere away from tourist crowds.- Visit Reeds Bay Beach Park on Banyan Drive for a tranquil slice of Hilo’s natural shoreline.
- Enjoy the cold, spring-fed waters, especially in the section known as “Ice Pond”.
- Fish from the shoreline or capture beautiful coastal shots in this uncrowded, photogenic setting.
- Relax with amenities such as restrooms and outdoor showers, while soaking in the peaceful vibe.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available nearby along Banyan Drive.Best time to visit:
Mornings for the calmest conditions and ideal light for photography. Weekdays offer the most solitude.Local tips:
The water is very cold but extremely refreshing—perfect for a quick dip. Bring a towel, a camera, and a relaxed mindset for this more natural Hawaiian beach escape.Distance:
Less than 3 miles from downtown Hilo—about a 7-minute drive.How to Get to Reeds Bay Beach Park:
Drive along Banyan Drive in Hilo and follow signs to Reeds Bay. The beach park is located just east of the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, with nearby parking and walk-in access.Romantic Beaches in Hilo, Hawaii:
3. Richardson Beach Park - 12-minute drive from Hilo
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Location:
Richardson Beach Park (Richardson Ocean Park), Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Families, nature lovers, snorkelers, and wildlife watchers looking for a unique black sand beach experience with calm waters and abundant marine life.What I Love: ♥
The volcanic black sand and lava rock shoreline, the frequent green sea turtle sightings, and the protected areas ideal for snorkeling and safe family swimming.- Visit Richardson Beach Park, a scenic coastal spot just east of Hilo with black sand beaches and tide pools.
- Snorkel in clear nearshore waters teeming with marine life and surrounded by rocky reef formations.
- Swim or relax in warm, naturally formed pools along the lava rock sections of the shore.
- Spot green sea turtles year-round, especially during calm mornings when visibility is best.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available on-site, but it fills quickly on weekends and holidays.Best time to visit:
Mornings for turtle sightings and calm snorkeling conditions. Weekdays offer the most peaceful environment for families and wildlife watchers.Local tips:
Lifeguards are regularly on duty, making this one of Hilo’s safest beaches. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, and wear water shoes if exploring rocky tide pool areas.Distance:
About 5 miles from downtown Hilo—approximately a 10- to 12-minute drive.How to Get to Richardson Beach Park:
Drive east on Kalaniana‘ole Avenue from Hilo. Follow signs to the beach park near the end of the coastal road. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.4. Four Mile Beach - 10-minute drive from Hilo
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Location:
Four Mile Beach (James Kealoha Beach Park), Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Swimmers, surfers, sunbathers, anglers, and first-time visitors to Hilo looking for a well-rounded beach experience close to town.What I Love: ♥
The versatile shoreline ideal for swimming and surfing, the frequent local energy, and the mix of calm and adventurous waters depending on season and side.- Visit Four Mile Beach—officially James Kealoha Beach Park—a local favorite and popular first stop for Hilo visitors.
- Swim, snorkel, or paddle in the calm waters during most of the year, ideal for families and beginners.
- Surf the winter swells when the waves become more intense and perfect for intermediate to experienced surfers.
- Stick to the left-hand side of the beach for safer swimming, as the right side has stronger currents.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available on-site, though it may fill up quickly during weekends.Best time to visit:
Summer and shoulder seasons for swimming and snorkeling. Winter for surfing and more active wave conditions.Local tips:
Bring water shoes for exploring the rocky shoreline. Lifeguards are occasionally present, but always observe water safety signs. Great spot for relaxing, people-watching, and fishing off the rocks.Distance:
About 4 miles from downtown Hilo—approximately a 10-minute drive.How to Get to Four Mile Beach:
Take Kalaniana‘ole Avenue east from Hilo toward Keaukaha. Follow signs to James Kealoha Beach Park, located just past Carlsmith Beach Park.For Families:
5. Hilo Bayfront Park - under 10 minutes from Hilo
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Location:
Hilo Bayfront Park, Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Walkers, paddlers, surfers, and beachgoers seeking views and a central location just steps from downtown Hilo.What I Love: ♥
The close proximity to downtown, the dramatic bayfront views, and the resurgence of activity following recent renovations.- Visit Hilo Bayfront Park, one of the town’s most accessible beaches, located just a short walk from downtown.
- Stroll the length of the beach and enjoy the coarse, dark sands and broad oceanfront panorama.
- Watch or join kayakers and canoe paddlers who frequent the calm waters of Hilo Bay.
- Surf the western end of the beach, where waves are more consistent and conditions are better suited to the sport.
Cost:
Free public access. Ample parking available along Bayfront Highway and adjacent lots.Best time to visit:
Early mornings for peaceful walks and paddling. Late afternoons for views and sunsets over the bay.Local tips:
While swimming isn’t recommended due to water conditions, the beach is ideal for launching small watercraft or catching a surf break on the far end. Great for a quick nature escape during a visit to downtown Hilo.Distance:
Less than 1 mile from downtown Hilo—easily walkable in under 10 minutes.How to Get to Hilo Bayfront Park:
Head toward Bayfront Highway from any central point in Hilo. Park in the designated beachside areas and walk directly onto the shoreline path.Plan Your Trip