From Black Sand Beauty to Sea Turtles – One of the Hilo Beaches That Has It All
With its black sand cove surrounded by palm trees, world-class snorkeling in warm water, magnificent green sea turtles basking near the shore, and amenities like freshwater showers and lifeguards on duty, Richardson Beach Park is one of the most picturesque and popular Hilo beaches. The prime swimming zone is protected from the larger surf by rock outcroppings, so it’s safe even for kids to try snorkeling for the first time, and the water is clear and shallow.
Richardson Beach Park is also the closest black-sand beach to our property, easily accessible during your stay. From your Volcano vacation rental suite, you’ll be just 30 miles away from lounging on the gorgeous black sand, picnicking in paradise, and snorkeling amongst massive sea turtles and tropical fish.
Renowned Snorkeling, Stunning Sea Turtles, and Abundant Coral Just Underwater
Due to its unique layout, with a coral reef cove protected from bigger swells, Richardson Beach Park is one of the best places to snorkel on the Big Island. You can snorkel right from the black-sand shore, and the county-maintained facilities even include metal stairs leading down into the water (like you’d use in a regular swimming pool), making access safe and easy. And unlike other snorkeling areas where changing tides can kick up sand and make it difficult to see underwater, the shallow coral-lined pools are tucked away from the waves – this preserves the clarity of the water, regardless of whether the outer surf is sizeable or not.
It’s not just humans who love the calm and clear water here, as the tidepools also attract green sea turtles, who feed on the abundant algae and relax near the shore. Known by their Hawaiian name, Honu, these beautiful and giant turtles – often growing 3-4 feet long and weighing over 300 pounds – are captivating to see in person. You’ll likely see numerous turtles sunbathing alongside you on the black sand, as “basking” is normal behavior and a way for them to rest and warm up. Whether swimming alongside them underwater or observing them on shore, always keep 10-15 feet from the endangered Honu, and as the beach signs say: “show turtles aloha.”
The extensive coral reef is also home to a range of other sea life and varieties of fish, including the vibrant parrot fish. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just heading out for your first time, parrot fish are always eye-catching to see up close. They change colors several times throughout their lifespans, alternating from one bright hue to another, often with various coloring throughout their body.
Insider Info and Tips for an Ideal Day at Richardson Beach Park
– Arrive as early in the day as possible, as Richardson is one of the most-visited beaches on the Hilo side of the Big Island. The parking lot can fill up quickly, so getting there earlier helps ensure a better chance at a parking spot near the beach.
– Since the summer of 2022, there has been ongoing construction on the restrooms and other beach facilities. The work should wrap up in mid-2023 and will add improved ADA access, but in the meantime, outdoor showers and porta-potties are still accessible.
– There are numerous outdoor tables available, some with shade overhead, perfect for having a beachside picnic. On your way from Volcano to Richardson Beach Park, make a short detour by turning left onto Belt of Hawaii Road when you get to Hilo, where you’ll find the legendary Suisan Fish Market on the edge of Hilo Bay. Choose from their incredible variety of fish, including favorites like ahi, mahi-mahi, and salmon, freshly caught and prepared into poke bowls served over rice or greens. You’ll have the makings of a classic Hawaiian picnic, and the selection of fish is best in the morning, so try to get there between 9-11 am. Note that they are closed on Wednesdays and Sundays.
– The beach is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, but lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 am until 4:45 pm, so plan to visit during those hours for the safest swimming and snorkeling experience (especially if you have kids).
– Surfing, boogie-boarding, and stand-up paddleboarding are all excellent on the other side of the naturally-formed volcanic rock breakwater. If some of your group want to ride the waves, the outer surf at Richardson is one of the best Hilo beaches for those activities too.
– Although not essential for snorkeling, as most of the coral reef is within 50 yards of shore, fins for your feet can make navigating through the swimming pools smoother. But regardless of whether you are snorkeling, bring water shoes to protect your feet from the sometimes sharp surfaces of the coral and the black sand, which can get very hot throughout the day.
Stay with us, where the nearby Hilo beaches show off the best of the Big Island!
