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Carlsmith Beach Park

Big Island Guide Travel Guide

Carlsmith Beach Park Overview

Family-friendly, warm, and always welcoming, Carlsmith Beach Park is well-maintained and easily accessible. With lifeguards on duty, it’s an excellent option for those who want a laidback beach experience with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and lounging.

Located among a series of beach parks just south of Hilo, this park borders the eastern edge of the Kealoha Beach Park. Carlsmith boasts some unique park characteristics, incorporating both a tropical hang out and a beach park in one location.

Beach Park Activities

Carlsmith Beach Park has plenty of shaded areas for beachgoers with a pahoehoe (lava rock) shelf serving as a shoreline and footpath into the lagoon. Consisting of several large lagoons, the coves have a mixture of soft sand bottom and lava rocks so water shoes can be helpful. Because the waters are protected by a reef, it makes for good swimming and snorkeling conditions. Freshwater flows up in several areas, making for some refreshing, cooler spots throughout the lagoons. The ponds are surrounded by lush plant life giving the place a truly tropical feeling.

Green Hawaiian Sea turtles can often be seen here enjoying the shallow pond and feeding. They are very friendly, however, even if they swim up to you when snorkeling, remember not to touch these endangered species as they are vulnerable to human bacteria. As a legally protected species, visitors are required to stay at least 10 feet away from these beautiful animals.

Carlsmith Beach Park also has an expansive lawn area, covered pavilions, barbeque grills, picnic tables, showers, bathrooms, and full restroom facilities to keep you and your family comfortable and relaxed throughout your fun filled beach day.

Amenities
Lifeguards
Restrooms
Outdoor Showers
Pavilions
Picnic Area
Parking

Location
1815 Kalanianaole Ave
Hilo, HI 96720