Beautiful Carlsmith Beach Park in Hilo, Hawaii, on sunset

Carlsmith Beach Park, located just a few miles east of downtown Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island, is a tranquil paradise known for its calm turquoise waters, lush greenery, and natural swimming lagoons. This beach park, also referred to as "Four Mile" by locals, offers a unique experience with its mix of volcanic rock formations and sandy areas that create protected tidal pools perfect for families and snorkelers. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, and it's common to encounter Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), which make this park a favorite among nature lovers. The park draws approximately 200,000 visitors annually, thanks to its idyllic setting and proximity to Hilo's attractions. With its shaded picnic areas, grassy lawns, and restrooms, Carlsmith Beach Park is well-equipped for a relaxing day out. While there is no lifeguard on duty, the protected lagoons provide safe swimming conditions for most visitors, though caution is advised during high surf or storms. A favorite among both locals and tourists, Carlsmith Beach Park offers a peaceful retreat where you can swim, snorkel, or simply unwind while soaking in the beauty of the Big Island's eastern coastline.

Paradise beach sunset or sunrise with tropical palm trees. Summer travel holidays vacation getaway colorful concept photo from sea ocean water at Big Island, Hawaii, USA.

Richardson Ocean Center, located just a short drive from Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island, is a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and marine education, making it a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Known for its black sand and crystal-clear tide pools, this beach park offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities on the island, with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), and occasionally monk seals. As part of the Hilo coastline's popular beach parks, Richardson Ocean Center attracts an estimated 250,000 visitors annually, drawn by its calm, family-friendly swimming areas and its small yet informative education center that highlights Hawaii's rich marine ecosystems and Hawaiian cultural connections to the ocean. The site also features grassy picnic areas, restrooms, and shaded spots, making it a well-equipped and relaxing destination for a day by the sea. The center is particularly valued for its accessibility, with gentle entry points into the water and lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. Whether you're snorkeling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the striking contrast of black lava rock against turquoise waters, Richardson Ocean Center provides a memorable experience of Hawaii's natural and cultural heritage.

Hawaiian sunset in tropical paradise

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, located on Hawaii's Big Island along the southern coastline, is one of the Island's most iconic and unique beaches, drawing an estimated 450,000 visitors annually. Renowned for its striking jet-black sands formed by volcanic activity, this beach offers a dramatic and otherworldly landscape, framed by swaying coconut palms and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. Punalu'u is a favorite spot for nature lovers, often hosting Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking on the warm sands and hawksbill turtles along the shore, protected under federal and state laws. The waters here are ideal for snorkeling, revealing vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life, though visitors should exercise caution due to strong currents. The beach's historical significance adds to its allure, as its freshwater springs were once a crucial resource for Native Hawaiians, and the area remains a cultural treasure. Visitors can enjoy shaded picnic areas, restrooms, and ample parking, making it a convenient stop for those exploring nearby attractions like Hawaii'i Volcanoes National Park. Whether you're marveling at its unique black sands, spotting turtles, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach offers an unforgettable experience that embodies the raw, untamed spirit of Hawaii.

Hāpuna Beach Park, located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii's Big Island, is widely regarded as one of the Island's most beautiful beaches, drawing over 600,000 visitors annually with its expansive white sands, clear turquoise waters, and sunny weather. Spanning nearly half a mile, Hāpuna Beach offers ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities, making it a favorite for both families and adventure seekers. During the summer months, the calm waters are perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding, while winter swells create opportunities for bodyboarding and surfing, though strong currents may require caution. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including lifeguards, picnic pavilions, restrooms, showers, and a concession stand, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors. Adjacent hiking trails, such as the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, provide stunning coastal views and a chance to explore the area's natural beauty. Recognized as one of the top beaches in the U.S., Hāpuna Beach is also a prime spot for watching sunsets, adding to its appeal as a quintessential Hawaiian destination. With its pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and excellent facilities, Hāpuna Beach Park delivers an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Hawaii's Big Island.

Hōnaunau Bay, located on Hawaii's Big Island along the Kona Coast, is a breathtaking destination known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and cultural significance, drawing an estimated 300,000 visitors annually. Often referred to as "Two-Step" due to the natural lava rock entry point into the water, this bay is a snorkeler's and diver's paradise, offering a chance to swim alongside tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), and even spinner dolphins in their natural habitat. Adjacent to the iconic Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, the bay is steeped in Hawaiian history, once serving as a place of refuge and an important gathering site for Native Hawaiians. The calm, protected waters make it accessible for all skill levels, while the colorful coral reefs showcase Hawaii's rich marine biodiversity. The area is well-loved for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent visibility, particularly during the morning hours when the light enhances the vibrant underwater scenery. Limited parking means arriving early is essential, and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by practicing reef-safe snorkeling and avoiding touching marine life. Hōnaunau Bay's combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and world-class snorkeling makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Big Island.

Makalawena beach at Puu Alii Bay Beach, near Kekaha Kai Beach Park, Big Island, Hawaii

Kekaha Kai State Park, located along Hawaii's Big Island's sunny Kona Coast, is a hidden gem offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged volcanic landscapes, attracting an estimated 200,000 visitors annually. Spanning over 1,600 acres, the park encompasses several stunning beaches, including Mahai'ula Beach, Makalawena Beach, and Kua Bay, each offering unique experiences for beachgoers, hikers, and adventurers. Mahai'ula Beach, the easiest to access, features soft white sand and calm waters perfect for swimming, while the secluded Makalawena Beach, reachable via a rugged hike or 4WD road, rewards visitors with its serene atmosphere and picture-perfect scenery. Kua Bay, the northernmost beach, is a favorite for its crystal-clear waters and opportunities for snorkeling, bodyboarding, and sunsets over the Pacific. The park is also known for its scenic trails, such as the Ala Kahakai Trail, which weaves through ancient lava fields and offers breathtaking coastal views. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) and humpback whales during the winter months. While facilities are limited, including restrooms and picnic tables, Kekaha Kai's unspoiled beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a top choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Whether relaxing on the sand or exploring the park's diverse landscapes, Kekaha Kai State Park showcases the natural allure of Hawaii's Big Island.

Pohoiki Beach, located in Isaac Hale Beach Park on Hawaii's Big Island, is a striking testament to the Island's volcanic power, formed during the 2018 eruption of Kilauea. This unique black sand beach, surrounded by dramatic lava flows and dotted with warm tidal pools, draws an estimated 150,000 visitors annually who come to marvel at its raw and rugged beauty. Unlike many of Hawaii's traditional sandy beaches, Pohoiki Beach features a mix of coarse black sand and lava rock, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape that contrasts beautifully with the turquoise ocean. The nearby boat ramp, once the park's central feature, was encircled by lava during the eruption, turning the area into a fascinating historical site. While the beach itself is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents and rough waters, the warm, geothermally heated tidal pools offer a relaxing and safe place to soak. Pohoiki has become a popular destination for visitors seeking a glimpse of Hawaii's ever-changing volcanic landscape, as well as for locals who enjoy the area's peaceful ambiance and picnic facilities. As a dramatic reminder of nature's power to reshape the land, Pohoiki Beach offers an unforgettable experience for anyone exploring Hawaii's Big Island.

'Ōhai'ula/Spencer Beach Park, located on Hawaii's Big Island near Kawaihae, is a family-friendly haven known for its calm waters, white sandy shore, and excellent facilities, attracting an estimated 200,000 visitors annually. This tranquil beach, protected by a natural reef, offers ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike, especially families with young children. The park is well-equipped with shaded picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and camping facilities, providing a comfortable setting for day trips or overnight stays. Adjacent to the beach is Pu'ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, where visitors can explore one of the largest and most significant ancient Hawaiian temples, adding a cultural and historical dimension to their visit. The calm waters of 'Ōhai'ula are home to vibrant marine life, including colorful reef fish and occasional sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), making it a great spot for snorkeling. Its location on the island's drier, sunnier Kohala Coast ensures pleasant weather year-round, and the park's accessibility and facilities make it a perfect destination for a relaxing and culturally enriching beach outing on Hawaii's Big Island.

Kailua Bay: Crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and the perfect spot for adventure or relaxation in paradise.

Kailua Bay, located in the heart of Kailua-Kona on Hawaii's Big Island, is a vibrant coastal destination that blends natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities, attracting an estimated 500,000 visitors annually. This picturesque bay, with its turquoise waters and crescent-shaped shoreline, offers a variety of activities, from snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding to swimming and kayaking, making it a hub for water enthusiasts of all levels. Kailua Bay is steeped in Hawaiian history, serving as a key landing site for King Kamehameha I and home to the historic Mokuaikaua Church and Hulihe'e Palace, both within walking distance of the shoreline. The bay is also the starting point of the Ironman World Championship, adding to its global renown. Visitors can enjoy vibrant marine life, including spinner dolphins, and calm waters perfect for exploring reefs close to shore. Surrounded by bustling shops, restaurants, and cafes, Kailua Bay is both a recreational haven and a cultural hub, offering something for everyone. With nearby Ali'i Drive providing easy access and amenities such as restrooms and rental shops, Kailua Bay is a must-visit destination for those seeking the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and history on Hawaii's Big Island.