Richardson's Ocean Park Tours

Richardson\'s Ocean Park which includes a park and landscape views
Choose one or more items to build your trip:
Discover a world of marine science and one of the best swimming spots in the Hilo region at this family-friendly beach park.

The only black-sand beach in the Hilo region provides relaxed swimming, sheltered rock pools and excellent surfing. A house at the beach dates back to the 1920s and was once home to the Richardson family, for whom the ocean park is named. Today visitors to the ocean park can visit the house, now the Richardson Ocean Center, to learn about the marine life of the area.Lava from Mauna Kea has formed a natural seawall at Richardson Ocean Park, making it a sheltered beach that is perfect for young children. Rock pools that fill at high tide make for shallow, detached swimming holes at low tide. Watch the kids as they play in the pools, without the stress of swell or currents. Beyond the seawall, Richardson Ocean Park is a popular surf break. The conditions here are known to be unpredictable and suitable for experienced surfers only. Try body boarding in the shallower waters if you’re not a confident surfer. Rent a kayak to experience the beach in its entirety. Vendors line the beach and rental fees are reasonable. Paddle with Hawaiian sea turtles or try to spot a monk seal, common in the Hilo area. Bring your snorkel and mask to see the fascinating underwater life up-close.Learn about the local marine life at the Ocean Center, located just above the beach. The former home of Elsa and George Richardson has been converted into an education center and research facility.Richardson Ocean Park is located 6 miles (9 kilometers) east of Hilo. The beach is best reached by car and there is ample free parking. There is currently no public transportation serving Richardson Ocean Park however, some chartered tours will take you to the park. The park is open daily and admission is free.

Plan a trip to see Richardson's Ocean Park

Kona Reef, A Raintree Vacation Club Resort
Aston Kona by the Sea
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort and Spa
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Richardson's Ocean Park

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 4 activitiesOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Richardson's Ocean Park

Best Hilo Location @ Richardsons Beach Park, Swimming, Snorkeling Sleeps 8-Save$
Best Hilo Location @ Richardsons Beach Park, Swimming, Snorkeling Sleeps 8-Save$
Hilo
Best Hilo Location @ Richardsons Beach Park, Swimming, Snorkeling Sleeps 8-Save$
Best Hilo Location. Luxury Ocean Frt, black sand & turtles @ Richardsons Beach
Best Hilo Location. Luxury Ocean Frt, black sand & turtles @ Richardsons Beach
Hilo
Best Hilo Location. Luxury Ocean Frt, black sand & turtles @ Richardsons Beach
Hilo's Newest Richardson's Beach Park House. Best Loc. Snorkeling, Turtles.
Hilo's Newest Richardson's Beach Park House. Best Loc. Snorkeling, Turtles.
Hilo
Hilo's Newest Richardson's Beach Park House. Best Loc. Snorkeling, Turtles.
Ocean Frt.-Best Hilo Swim Lagoons, Turtles @ Richardsons Beach
Ocean Frt.-Best Hilo Swim Lagoons, Turtles @ Richardsons Beach
Hilo
Ocean Frt.-Best Hilo Swim Lagoons, Turtles @ Richardsons Beach
Best Hilo Beach Park House. 3,600 sq. ft. Sleeps 16. New at Richardson's Park.
Best Hilo Beach Park House. 3,600 sq. ft. Sleeps 16. New at Richardson's Park.
Hilo
Best Hilo Beach Park House. 3,600 sq. ft. Sleeps 16. New at Richardson's Park.
Hilo Oasis - 32 Mi to Volcanoes National Park!
Hilo Oasis - 32 Mi to Volcanoes National Park!
Hilo
Hilo Oasis - 32 Mi to Volcanoes National Park!
Hilo Oasis - 32 Mi to Volcanoes National Park!
Hilo Oasis - 32 Mi to Volcanoes National Park!
3.5 out of 5
Hilo
Hilo Oasis - 32 Mi to Volcanoes National Park!
 Private home across the street from the beach. Minutes from downtown Hilo
Private home across the street from the beach. Minutes from downtown Hilo
Hilo
Private home across the street from the beach. Minutes from downtown Hilo
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by Hilton
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by Hilton
4 out of 5
93 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a Doubletree by Hilton
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.