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Hawaiʻi Island · Hawaiian Islands

Carlsmith Beach Park

Hilo’s reef-protected snorkeling lagoon

Carlsmith Beach Park, on the east side of Hawaiʻi Island, is a reef-protected, fresh-water-fed lagoon carved out of black lava rock that beckons visitors with its exceptional snorkeling. Instead of a sandy beach, Carlsmith’s two acres is covered in lava rock and lawn along the Hilo coast. This lagoon is one of 11 beach parks tucked along Kalanianaʻole Street, about 10 minutes outside of Hilo town. Along with being a good spot to swim, there are stunning vistas of lush surrounding forests visible from the water as you look back at the coast.

Carlsmith Beach Park, nicknamed “four mile,” as it is exactly four miles from downtown Hilo, is among my favorite oases on the island. Its calm water and sandy floor are ideal for children and beginner swimmers. For picnicking and sunbathing, there are picnic tables and grassy knolls to stretch out on. There is also a small, covered pavilion with a few tables that can be reserved for day-use. Pathways guide visitors around the park to multiple lagoons, while stairs with guard rails help visitors enter the water safely.

Snorkeling and Sea Turtle Spotting

Honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtles, love Carlsmith Beach. You can find them here regularly, in the water or basking on the lava rock. Snorkeling here is spectacular. I love the vibrant tropical fish inhabiting the surrounding reef in Carlsmith’s translucent turquoise waters. Finned reef dwellers in many colors and patterns can be found underwater. See smaller fish adorned in silver scales or stripes, along with uhu, or parrotfish; yellow tang and the occasional humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa — Hawaiʻi’s state fish. Hear the pervasive crackling of them dining on reef algae atop the coral. Rent snorkel gear less than three miles away at Hilo Ocean Adventures, and then head into Carlsmith’s shimmering underwater world.

Quick Facts
Size~2 acres along the Hilo coast
Best known forSnorkeling, calm water, honu spotting
Best forFamilies, snorkelers
What to bringTowels, beach chairs, snorkel, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes
LifeguardWeekends, holidays and summer only, 9:30 a.m.–4:45 p.m.
RestroomsYes
EntryFree — no entry or parking fee
Location1815 Kalanianaʻole St, Hilo
Drive from Hilo~10 minutes
Drive from Kailua-Kona~2 hours (about 81 miles)

Walking and Fishing

One of my favorite things to do, when I bring friends and family here, is to meander the walking paths. There is so much to see: sky-high palms, waving fern fronds, pāhoehoe lava expanses. The dense flora surrounding the park rivals the ocean’s beauty. The lagoons surrounding the main park reveal themselves as you stroll. Fallen leaves larger than my head line the trails, while vines reach out from the trees to the ʻāina below. I’m used to hearing my guests gasp regularly on these treks.

While I’m not the most proficient person with a rod and reel, others love to fish here. With a host of crabs skittering across the rocks, crabbing is another fun activity. Shoreline and pole fishing are allowed at Carlsmith — just be cautious of casting where swimmers are present. Non-residents 15 years and older must obtain a recreational marine fishing license from the Department of Aquatic Resources before throwing a line. Create an account and pay the fee: $25 annual, $10 for 7 days or $20 for 30 days.

Parking and when to arrive

Carlsmith can get quite crowded on weekends, holidays and during summer breaks, with parking challenging to find. Try to arrive early in the morning to beat the midday heat and secure a spot before the crowds arrive.

Limited free parking is available in a small lot about 100 feet from Carlsmith at Kealoha Beach Park. You can also parallel park along Kalanianaʻole Avenue.

Reef-safe sunscreen and safety

Hawaiʻi bans the use of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. Wear a mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide, non-nano) or a long-sleeve rash guard.

The lava rocks that surround the water are often carpeted by green marine algae that can be very slick. Be wary when walking in and around the shoreline.

Hotels nearby

There are not as many hotels on this side of the island as on the west side, but two close by are worth a look. SCP Hotel is a seven-minute drive from Carlsmith Beach. Another option is the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, on the historic Banyan Drive about eight minutes away.

Food and drinks nearby

I love to hit Big Island Coffee Roasters for a coffee and a pastry before heading to the beach in the morning — among the best local roasters on the island, and a five-minute drive from Carlsmith. 76 Kalanianaʻole St, Hilo. Open daily, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For lunch, grab ultra-fresh poke from Suisan Fish Market, about three miles away, and picnic on the shore. 93 Lihiwai St, Hilo. Open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed Wednesdays and Sundays.

Speaking of fish: when you are done at the beach, head across the street to The Seaside Restaurant and Aqua Farm to reminisce over gourmet local cuisine. 1790 Kalanianaʻole St, Hilo. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 4–8 p.m.

History of Carlsmith Beach Park

  1. A.D. 1100

    The first Polynesians arrive

    The first Polynesians arrived on this coast around A.D. 1100. Carlsmith sits within the ahupuaʻa, or land division, of Waiākea, which stretches from the slopes of Mauna Loa down to Hilo.

  2. For generations

    Loko iʻa along the Hilo coast

    Native Hawaiians built and maintained loko iʻa, or Hawaiian fishponds, along this shoreline. They were a primary source of sustenance and a community gathering place where celebrations were held.

  3. Today

    Restoration by Hui Hoʻoleimaluō

    The community and Hui Hoʻoleimaluō, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring loko iʻa along this coastline, are working to preserve these ancient resources. Within a mile of Carlsmith are several other beaches worth visiting: Kealoha Beach Park, Leleiwi Beach Park — also known as Waiʻuli — and Richardson’s Ocean Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last reviewed by Hawaii.com editorial on August 27, 2026