A complete guide
Carlsmith Beach Park
Big Island

Carlsmith Beach Park, located on the east coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. The park features a picturesque black sand beach with crystal clear waters, surrounded by lush green vegetation and palm trees. The shallow waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The park also offers picnic areas, restrooms, and outdoor showers for convenience. Visitors can often spot Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun or swimming in the waters. Carlsmith Beach Park is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii's beaches.

Carlsmith Beach Park, also known as Four Miles Beach, is a beautiful public beach located on the east coast of Hawaii's Big Island, in the city of Hilo. The beach features black sand and calm, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. One of the highlights of the beach is the opportunity to see and even swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles, which are frequently spotted in the area. The park also offers picnic tables, restrooms, and outdoor showers. Carlsmith Beach Park is a popular spot for both tourists and locals and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Big Island.

Weather - best time to visit?

Kauai's climate is tropical, and the water temperature is consistently warm, making it possible to swim all year round. More information about the temperature and beach conditions in Kauai

Where to park

There is ample parking available at Carlsmith Beach Park, so finding a parking spot shouldn't be a problem. The parking lot is located near the entrance to the park, and there is no entrance fee. The lot can accommodate both cars and larger vehicles, such as vans and RVs. However, the parking spaces can fill up quickly during peak tourist season or on weekends, so it's always a good idea to arrive early or plan to visit during off-peak hours to ensure a spot. Additionally, be sure to lock your car and keep valuables out of sight to deter any potential theft.

Popular activities

There are many popular activities to enjoy at Carlsmith Beach Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Swimming and snorkeling: The calm and clear waters of Carlsmith Beach Park are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially for families with young children. The shallow waters are also home to Hawaiian green sea turtles, which are a popular sight for snorkelers.
• Picnicking and relaxing: The park is equipped with picnic tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic or a romantic lunch by the beach. The park's beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere also make it an excellent place to relax and unwind.
• Wildlife watching: The Hawaiian green sea turtles are a protected species, and visitors to the park can often see them swimming in the shallow waters or basking on the beach. The park is also home to many species of native birds and other wildlife.
• Photography: With its stunning black sand beach, clear waters, and beautiful sunsets, Carlsmith Beach Park is a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the natural beauty of Hawaii.
• Fishing: The park is a popular spot for shoreline fishing, especially for small reef fish.

Overall, there's something for everyone at Carlsmith Beach Park, making it a beloved destination for both tourists and locals on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Wildlife

Carlsmith Beach Park is a great place to observe wildlife. Visitors can often see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun or swimming in the waters. The turtles are a protected species, so it's important to keep a respectful distance and not disturb them. In addition to turtles, visitors may also spot various types of tropical fish, crabs, and other marine creatures while snorkeling in the clear waters. The surrounding lush green vegetation is also home to many species of birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Overall, Carlsmith Beach Park is a great destination for those looking to experience Hawaii's unique and diverse wildlife.

What to eat

There are several food options near Carlsmith Beach Park. The nearby city of Hilo offers a range of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks that cater to different tastes and budgets. Some popular options include

• Big Island Juice Co.
• Suisan Fish Market
• Hilo Bay Cafe
• WikiFRESH
• Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine
• Hilo Lunch Shop
• Ponds Hilo
• Bear's Coffee

These are just a few of the many food options available in the nearby city of Hilo, which offers a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

Nearby landmarks

Here are the approximate distances from Carlsmith Beach Park to some popular landmarks on the Big Island of Hawaii:

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: 31 miles (50 km) or 45-50 minutes by car
2. Akaka Falls State Park: 13 miles (21 km) or 25-30 minutes by car
3. Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station: 60 miles (97 km) or 1 hour and 45 minutes by car
4. Kona International Airport: 90 miles (145 km) or 2 hours and 15 minutes by car

These distances are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and road conditions. It's always a good idea to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, especially if you're planning to visit a popular landmark.

Who visits

Carlsmith Beach Park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals on the Big Island of Hawaii. Tourists visit the beach to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii's beaches, including the black sand and clear waters, and to see and swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles. Locals also frequent the beach for swimming, snorkeling, picnicking, and sunbathing. The park is a great spot for families with children, as the shallow waters are safe and calm. Many visitors also come to the beach to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. Overall, Carlsmith Beach Park is a beloved destination for all who appreciate Hawaii's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

How to get there

To get to Carlsmith Beach Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, you can follow these directions:

1. From Hilo, head east on Kalanianaole Avenue (Highway 19).
2. Turn left onto Keaukaha Road.
3. Turn left onto Kalanianaole Avenue (Highway 19) again.
4. Turn right onto Leleiwi Beach Park Road.
5. Continue straight until you see the entrance to Carlsmith Beach Park on your left.

There is ample parking available at the park, and no entrance fee is required. The park is located approximately 6 miles (10 km) from Hilo International Airport and 2 miles (3 km) from downtown Hilo, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Safety considerations

Carlsmith Beach Park is generally considered a safe destination for visitors, but as with any beach, it's important to take some safety precautions. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the park:

1. Pay attention to ocean conditions: The waters can be calm and shallow at Carlsmith Beach Park, but they can also be unpredictable. Always be aware of the current conditions and any potential hazards, such as strong currents or sudden drops in water depth.
2. Respect wildlife: The Hawaiian green sea turtles are a protected species, and it's important to keep a respectful distance and not disturb them. It's also important not to feed or touch any wildlife in the park.
3. Use sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing: The sun in Hawaii can be intense, so be sure to use sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing to protect your skin from sunburn and heat exhaustion.
4. Stay hydrated: Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated while enjoying the park.
5. Keep valuables secure: While Carlsmith Beach Park is generally safe, it's always a good idea to keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially when leaving your belongings unattended.

By following these simple safety tips, visitors can enjoy a safe and fun visit to Carlsmith Beach Park on the Big Island of Hawaii.

History

Carlsmith Beach Park has a rich history dating back to ancient Hawaiian times. The beach was once part of a large fishing village called Keaukaha, where Native Hawaiians practiced traditional fishing and aquaculture techniques. Later, the land was used for sugarcane plantations and cattle ranching.

In 1940, the land was acquired by the Territory of Hawaii and turned into a park, which was later named after Hawaii County Councilman George K. Carlsmith. The park was developed with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps and has since become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Over the years, the park has undergone various improvements, including the addition of picnic tables, restrooms, and parking areas. In recent years, the park has also become an important site for the preservation of the Hawaiian green sea turtle, which is protected by law.

Today, Carlsmith Beach Park remains a beloved destination for its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and rich history.

More beaches on Big Island

• Pohoiki Beach
• Leleiwi Beach Park
• Carlsmith Beach Park
• Richardson Ocean Park
• Onekahakaha Beach Park
• Honoliʻi Beach Park
• Spencer Beach Park
• Hapuna Beach Park
• Kahaluʻu Beach Park
• Magic Sands (White Sands) Beach Park