Swimming holes by town
Swimming Holes in Hilo, Hawaii
4 natural swimming holes
Swimming around Hilo, HI means options — 4 natural swimming holes make our directory for this corner of Hawaii. Carlsmith Beach Park anchors the local list, and Richardson Ocean Park rounds out the highlights. Plan around Year-round — that's the best season named in most local listings. The local flavor is pure ocean cove: every one of the 4 is a ocean cove. Geographically, they're a Hawaii County story.
Swimming holes in Hilo
- Carlsmith Beach Park
Carlsmith Beach Park is a chain of spring-fed lagoons with sandy bottoms and clear, calm water, protected by a lava reef that keeps the surf out.
- Richardson Ocean Park
Richardson Ocean Park — 'Richardson's' to Hilo locals — is the east side's best snorkeling spot, with a black sand beach, tidepools, and a pond spreading across the park.
- Kolekole Beach Park
Kolekole Beach Park sits at the mouth of a stream north of Hilo, where a waterfall pours toward the ocean and locals swim in the protected cove.
- Onekahakaha Beach Park
Onekahakaha Beach Park is Hilo's beloved keiki beach, with a lava-rock breakwater creating a calm, shallow swimming area.
Frequently asked questions
How many swimming holes are in Hilo, HI?
Our directory lists 4 natural swimming holes in and around Hilo, Hawaii, across Hawaii County. New spots are added as they're verified.
What kinds of swimming holes are in Hilo?
The 4 listings cover 4 ocean coves. See each listing for details on access and conditions.
Which swimming hole near Hilo should I try first?
Carlsmith Beach Park is a well-documented local listing. Carlsmith Beach Park is a chain of spring-fed lagoons with sandy bottoms and clear, calm water, protected by a lava reef that keeps the surf out. Full details, maps, and safety notes are on its page.
When is the best time to swim near Hilo?
Local listings most often name Year-round as the best season. Spring runoff can make rivers and creeks dangerously high — check local conditions before you go.