Come to Onekehakaha Beach Park to learn first-hand why this is one of the most popular oceanfront areas in the Hilo area. Beautiful scenery, a clean sandy beach, excellent facilities and peaceful tidal pools filled with marine life all make this an ideal spot for an outing. Find complete calm at this safe and welcoming beach.

The waters straight in front of the beach consist of a sheltered tidal pool with a sandy floor. The pool tends to be free of large waves or strong currents, making it the perfect place to go swimming, even with young kids.

Head farther out to explore a series of smaller tidal pools where there’s lots for snorkelers to see. Spot sea turtles, anemones, sea cucumbers, sea urchins and a wide variety of brightly colored tropical fish as well as much more besides. But do remember that changeable currents mean these pools farther out are not recommended for children or for novice swimmers.

Come on a weekday and you and your family will have plenty of space to relax, run around and explore. The beach is very peaceful at this time. Spend the morning exploring the water, then take a break to enjoy the clean white beach and the grassy stretch behind.

These open spaces are excellent places for kids to play. Bring a packed lunch and a blanket and set up on the grass for the afternoon or make use of the picnic tables. Make sure you take lots of photos, as the ocean views and the bright sand are too beautiful to leave to memory alone.

One of the reasons that Onekahakaha Beach Park is considered such a safe swimming beach is that there is a life guard on duty here during the day. It’s convenient in other ways too, such as having restroom facilities and being located close to central Hilo. The beach is only around 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the central part of the town. Reach it by car in 15 minutes, then feel a million miles away from reality as you swim in these clear waters.