Carlsmith Beach Park — Attraction in Hawaii

05/06/2025 (Tue) Carlsmith Beach Park, located just outside of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a beautiful and peaceful spot perfect for families and beginner snorkelers, thanks to its calm, sheltered waters. The beach features several tide pools, each with its own unique characteristics—some warmer, some cooler, some rocky, and others smoother—making it a fun and varied place to explore. The shallow waters extend far out, and there's even a tiny tiny offshore island, with several palm trees growing on it. It adds a charming touch to the scenery.🌴 The water is so clear, and we saw a fair number of fish swimming around. 🐟🐠🐡We also encountered sea turtles all throughout the area—swimming, feeding, and resting. On the east side of the park (to the right when facing the ocean), there’s a ladder with handrails like the kind you'd see at a swimming pool. When I tried to exit the water using the handrail, a sea turtle swam directly toward me and came very close multiple times! (You can see this moment in our video.) The rocky area near the handrail seems to be a favorite resting spot for the turtles. Do note that parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended. All in all, Carlsmith Beach Park is a spot full of natural beauty and calm waters—a truly worthwhile place to visit, especially for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing...

Carlsmith Beach Park in Hilo, Hawaii, is a beautiful and popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Located on the east side of the Big Island, this park is known for its calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and even seeing sea turtles up close. The park features a picturesque black sand beach, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and shallow tide pools perfect for exploring marine life. Visitors often enjoy picnicking on the grassy areas, taking leisurely walks along the shore, and simply soaking in the stunning ocean views.

One of the unique attractions of Carlsmith Beach Park is the chance to witness honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtles, basking in the sun or swimming near the shoreline. These gentle creatures are protected, so it's important for visitors to keep a respectful distance and not disturb them. The park also offers facilities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it a convenient and comfortable place to spend a day by the ocean. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the underwater world, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Carlsmith Beach Park is a must-visit spot in...

Carlsmith Beach Park or Four Miles Beach is as the name suggest just a little bit down the road from all the hotels on Hilo's Banyan Drive. The beach is a rocky rather than sandy beach but there is a sheltered lagoon area with ladders to climb into the water.

You can often find Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles foraging near the rocks and they are friendlier than anywhere else I've seen on any Beach in the area. However, be careful of the waves and the rocks beneath the surface in the shallows near the waters edge. Younger and inexperienced swimmers are safer viewing them from the shore.

Note: Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles are Federally protected so please do not touch, chase or harass them, a 10-15 foot buffer is recommended.

There is a covered pavilion with tables, showers, and restrooms...