Richardson's Ocean Park Tours

Richardson\'s Ocean Park showing a beach and landscape views
Richardson\'s Ocean Park which includes a park and landscape views
Richardson\'s Ocean Park showing landscape views, rocky coastline and tropical scenes
Richardson\'s Ocean Park featuring a pebble beach, landscape views and a garden
Photo by Lisa A Schmidt


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.

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Best Lodging Options Near Richardson's Ocean Park

Charming Beach House @ Richardson Beach Park, Hilo’s Premier Beach

Charming Beach House @ Richardson Beach Park, Hilo’s Premier Beach

2 out of 5
Hilo
Charming Beach House @ Richardson Beach Park, Hilo’s Premier Beach
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
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$
Quiet Hilo Beach Cottage, Prime Location for Beaches, Snorkeling, and Surfing

Quiet Hilo Beach Cottage, Prime Location for Beaches, Snorkeling, and Surfing

Hilo
Quiet Hilo Beach Cottage, Prime Location for Beaches, Snorkeling, and Surfing
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'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.
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!
 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
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.

Things to do near Richardson's Ocean Park

During your visit to Richardson's Ocean Park in Hilo, Hawaii, be sure to explore the stunning ocean park tours available. These tours provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery, learn about local marine life, and experience the vibrant ecosystem that thrives in this picturesque area. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this Hawaiian gem.

Shopping

For shopping near Richardson's Ocean Park, visit Hilo Shopping Center, just 4 miles away, offering a vibrant family atmosphere. The Hilo Farmers Market, located 5 miles away, is perfect for local goods. If you're up for a drive, check out Hilo Coffee Mill, 13 miles away, for unique gifts.

Recreation

Experience luxury at Naniloa Country Club, where you can unwind in a serene setting. Enjoy the natural beauty and relaxation at Wailoa River State Recreation Area, perfect for leisurely strolls. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hilo Municipal Golf Course offers a vibrant atmosphere for a day on the greens.

Adventure

Kilauea Caverns of Fire offers an exhilarating hiking trail 11 miles from Richardson's Ocean Park, showcasing stunning volcanic landscapes. Explore the outdoor beauty of Native Hawaiian Lava, located 7 miles away, or experience the thrill of the Zip Isle Zip Line, a fantastic ropes course 14 miles from the park.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Richardson's Ocean Park! Catch a romantic film at the Palace Theater, explore the stars at Imiloa Astronomy Center, or enjoy a cultural performance at the University Theater, all within a short drive of the park. Fun for the whole family awaits!

Find the best attractions near Richardson's Ocean Park

Richardson's Ocean Park in Hilo, Hawaii, offers a delightful mix of attractions, including urban parks, beautiful beaches, and modern university campuses. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures while exploring local points of interest like Richardson's Ocean Center and Richardson Beach Park. This scenic area promises a vibrant city experience, perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and culture of Hawaii.

  • Carlsmith Beach Park: Located just 1 mile from Richardson's Ocean Park, Carlsmith Beach Park offers a laid-back beach vibe with beautiful sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking amidst the stunning Hawaiian scenery.
  • University of Hawaii at Hilo: About 5 miles away, this modern university boasts a vibrant campus atmosphere. Explore its unique architecture, lush gardens, and cultural events that reflect the diverse community and academic spirit of Hilo.
  • Coconut Island Park: Situated 4 miles from Richardson's Ocean Park, this family-friendly outdoor paradise features a rock garden, picnic areas, and scenic views, making it perfect for a leisurely day with loved ones in a tranquil setting.

Best time to go to Richardson's Ocean Park

Visitor numbers around Richardson's Ocean Park is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Richardson's Ocean Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. October and September are its hottest month on average. At the time of October, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny. March is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
July72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Richardson's Ocean Park

To save money on your trip to Richardson's Ocean Park in Hilo, Hawaii, take advantage of the park's free entry. Plan your visit between September and November for lower accommodation rates, booking about a month in advance for the best deals. Tuesdays typically offer the cheapest hotel rates, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and consider booking a package deal for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you rewards for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Richardson's Ocean Park are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Richardson's Ocean Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Richardson's Ocean Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Richardson's Ocean Park is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package through Expedia that combines your hotel stay at Richardson's Ocean Park with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.