Richardson Ocean Park is the best spot for snorkeling on the Big Island's eastern coast, located along a stretch of beachfront near Hilo that is also home to Carlsmith, Lele'iwi, and Onekahakaha Beach Parks. The beach is home to a significant marine conservation area and is open to the public daily between 7:00am and 7:00pm, with lifeguards staffed year-round. Visitors can explore the beach's beautiful mixed-color sands, which are created from a mix of black lava deposits and unique olivine crystal green sand. The beach is a favorite family destination on the weekends, offering calm water conditions for swimming and tide pools for wading. Day-use picnic areas are available for visitor use, along with public restrooms, showers, and telephones.

Richardson Ocean Park, 2349 Kalanianaole Ave, Hilo, HI 96720

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