Onekahakaha Beach Park

Onekahakaha Beach Park, nestled in the vibrant town of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a picturesque and family-friendly destination known for its calm, shallow waters and safe swimming conditions. Ideal for families with young children and casual visitors seeking a relaxing beach day, this charming park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. This article explores everything you need to know about Onekahakaha Beach Park.

• Onekahakaha Beach Park is known for its shallow, calm waters, making it a safe and perfect spot for families with young children to enjoy swimming and wading.
• The park features numerous tide pools teeming with marine life, offering visitors a chance to explore and discover colorful fish, crabs, and other sea creatures up close.
• With well-maintained picnic areas, pavilions, and BBQ grills, it’s an excellent location for a leisurely day out, where visitors can enjoy meals with stunning ocean views.
• Onekahakaha Beach Park offers beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Hilo Bay, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and photography enthusiasts.

While it may not have a long and storied history like some other Hawaiian landmarks, its evolution from private property to a cherished public space is notable.

Before becoming a public park, the land was privately owned by Tomozo Machida. His legacy remains, as the road leading to the parking lot still bears his name.

In 1930, Hawaii County acquired the property, initiating its transformation into a 13-acre beach park. This development marked the beginning of Onekahakaha’s journey into becoming a community favorite.

The county bestowed the park with its Hawaiian name, “Onekahakaha,” meaning “drawing pictures sand.” This name likely refers to the unique characteristics of the sand in the area, adding a touch of local charm and cultural significance.

Onekahakaha Beach Park is renowned for its tranquil, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The protected lagoon area is perfect for beginners and young children, offering a safe environment to explore the underwater world and observe vibrant marine life.

The park’s unique coastline features fascinating tide pools that are a delight to explore. These natural formations are teeming with small sea creatures, making it an educational and exciting adventure for all ages. Visitors can spend hours discovering crabs, starfish, and other marine inhabitants in these shallow pools.

Onekahakaha Beach Park is a haven for families, offering a range of activities that cater to all ages. With picnic areas, playgrounds, and ample open space, families can enjoy a leisurely day of fun and relaxation. The calm waters and sandy shores provide an excellent setting for beach games and building sandcastles.

Onekahakaha Beach Park boasts a beautiful sandy beach and a tranquil lagoon, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. The park is well-equipped with picnic areas and pavilions, providing shaded spots for family gatherings and leisurely meals. Visitors can also take advantage of the clean restroom and shower facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience. Additionally, the park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps and accessible pathways to accommodate all visitors, making it an inclusive destination for everyone.

• Arrive Early: Secure a good spot, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Bring Sunscreen and Hats: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
• Pack a Picnic: Utilize the park’s picnic areas and pavilions.
• Check the Tide Schedule: Plan your tide pool explorations during low tide.
• Wear Water Shoes: Protect your feet while exploring the rocky tide pools.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
• Respect Marine Life: Avoid touching or disturbing sea creatures in the tide pools.
• Use Restroom Facilities: Keep the beach clean by utilizing the park’s amenities.
• Follow Safety Signs: Pay attention to safety warnings and lifeguard instructions.
• Share Your Experience: Capture and share your visit on social media to inspire others.

The best times to visit Onekahakaha Beach Park are during the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler, and the park is less crowded. Weekdays are typically quieter compared to weekends, offering a more serene experience. Visiting during the summer months ensures warm, inviting waters, while winter can bring larger crowds due to holiday travel. Always check the weather forecast and tide sche

Located in the heart of Hilo, Onekahakaha Beach Park is conveniently close to several other popular attractions. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore Richardson’s Ocean Park, known for its black sand beaches and excellent snorkeling spots, or take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Liliuokalani Gardens, a Japanese-style garden offering serene landscapes and picturesque views.

When visiting Onekahakaha Beach Park, you’ll find delightful dining options nearby to complement your beach day. Just a short drive away, The Seaside Restaurant and Aqua Farm offers a unique dining experience with fresh seafood and stunning ocean views. For those craving a variety of dishes with a local twist, Ocean Front Kitchen provides a diverse menu in a relaxed, waterfront setting, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal after a day at the beach.

For comfortable and convenient accommodation options near Onekahakaha Beach Park, consider staying at Arnott’s Lodge and Hiking Adventures or Aaron’s Cottage. Arnott’s Lodge offers a variety of lodging choices, from budget-friendly rooms to larger suites, along with guided hiking adventures to explore the natural beauty of Hilo. Aaron’s Cottage provides a cozy, bed-and-breakfast-style experience with a homely atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing stay.

To reach Onekahakaha Beach Park by car, start from Hilo town and head east on Highway 11. Continue until you reach Highway 130, then take a left turn. Follow the signs for Kaimu and continue straight until you reach the junction for Onekahakaha Beach Park. The park will be on your right, and ample parking is available on-site.

If you prefer public transportation, you can take the Hele-On Bus from Hilo. Board the bus at the Hilo Transportation Center and check the schedule for the route that goes towards the beach park. The bus will drop you off near the park entrance, allowing for a short walk to the beach. Be sure to check the bus timings and plan your visit accordingly, as services may vary.

Onekahakaha Beach Park stands out for its serene lagoon, family-friendly atmosphere, and engaging activities like tide pool exploration and snorkeling. Relax on the sandy shores, enjoy a picnic with loved ones, or delve into the rich marine life! We encourage you to visit and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility that Onekahakaha Beach Park has to offer. Don’t forget to share your adventures and experiences on social media, inspiring others to discover this hidden gem in Hilo.