Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Onekahakaha Beach Park
BEACH
Popular with local families, this beach has a broad, shallow, sandy-bottomed pool, pro-
tected by a boulder breakwater. There are lifeguards on weekends and holidays, re-
strooms, showers, grassy lawns and covered pavilions.
The water is only 1ft to 2ft deep in spots at low tide, so toddlers can splash safely. An
unprotected cove north of the protected pool is deeper but can be hazardous due to sea
urchins and rough surf; it's best to stay inside the breakwater.
James Kealoha Beach Park
BEACH
(Carl Smith Beach Park)
Further along the road, this county park is best for older kids and
snorkelers. Locals call it Four Miles (the distance between the park and the downtown
post office). There are weekend lifeguards, restrooms, showers, covered pavilions and
lots of turtles.
For swimming and snorkeling head to the eastern side, which contains a deep, protec-
ted basin with generally calm, clear water and pockets of white sand. The park's western
side is open ocean and much rougher, without an easy entry. Locals surf here in winter or
net fish.
Waiʻolena and Waiʻuli Beach Parks
BEACH
(Leleiwi Beach)
Rocky and ruggedly pretty, these side-by-side beaches contain Hilo's best
shore-dive site. You might see turtles, interesting coral growth and a variety of butterfly
fish. The water is freezing until you go past the reef, and the entrance is tricky; ask for
advice at Nautilus Dive Center.
Though commonly known by their former name, Leleiwi Beach, for cultural reasons
the county renamed the beaches Waiʻuli (dark water) and Waiʻolena (light water) in
January 2008.
Honoliʻi Beach Park
BEACH
Less than 2 miles north of downtown Hilo, this protected cove is Hilo's best surfing and
bodyboarding spot. Don't come here to swim, as the adjacent river tends to muddy the
waters, although it's guarded daily. There's a pleasant grassy picnic area, restrooms,
showers and a lifeguard.
From Hilo take the Bayfront Hwy north; after mile marker 4, turn right onto Nahala St
and then left onto Kahoa St. Park on the roadside and walk down to the park. On week-
ends cars are parked bumper to bumper.
