A complete guide
Leleiwi Beach Park
Big Island

Leleiwi Beach Park is a picturesque coastal park in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii. It boasts a unique black sand beach formed by volcanic activity, and visitors can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the tide pools around the lava rocks. The park has several shaded picnic areas and barbecue facilities, as well as restrooms and showers. Nearby, the man-made Hilo Breakwall is a popular spot for fishing. Leleiwi Beach Park is a peaceful and scenic destination that offers a range of recreational activities and is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii's coastline.

Leleiwi Beach Park is a scenic coastal park located on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the town of Hilo. It is known for its black sand beach, lava rocks, and scenic ocean views. The park is popular among locals and visitors alike, and offers a range of recreational activities.

The black sand beach at Leleiwi Beach Park was formed by volcanic activity, and the sand is made up of small particles of volcanic rock that have been eroded over time. The beach is relatively small, but it is a great place to sunbathe, swim, and snorkel. Visitors can also enjoy the tide pools that form around the lava rocks, which are home to a variety of marine life such as sea urchins, crabs, and small fish.

Leleiwi Beach Park is also a popular spot for picnics and barbecues, with several shaded areas and picnic tables available. The park also has restrooms and outdoor showers, making it a convenient place to spend a day at the beach.

One unique feature of Leleiwi Beach Park is the nearby Hilo Breakwall, which is a man-made wall that extends out into the ocean. The breakwall was built to protect Hilo Bay from the large waves and swells that can occur during storms. The breakwall is a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can often see locals catching fish from the wall.

Overall, Leleiwi Beach Park is a beautiful and peaceful destination on the Big Island of Hawaii. It offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, and is a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Hawaii's coastline.

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

Leleiwi Beach Park has a small parking lot located near the park entrance. The parking lot has limited spaces and can fill up quickly during peak hours, so it's a good idea to arrive early if you're driving. If the parking lot is full, you may be able to find street parking along the nearby roads, but be sure to check for any parking restrictions or signs before leaving your car.

Popular activities

While Leleiwi Beach Park is generally considered a safe destination, visitors should still take certain precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips for staying safe at the beach park:

1. Swim only in designated areas: The beach can have strong currents and undertows, so it is important to swim only in the areas marked for swimming.
2. Be aware of changing weather and ocean conditions: The weather and ocean conditions can change quickly in Hawaii, so it is important to pay attention to the signs and warnings posted at the park and to check the weather forecast before heading to the park.
3. Wear appropriate footwear: The beach and surrounding lava rocks can be sharp and uneven, so it is recommended to wear appropriate footwear, such as water shoes or sandals.
4. Stay hydrated: The weather in Hawaii can be hot and humid, so it is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
5. Keep an eye on personal belongings: While the park is generally safe, visitors should still keep an eye on their personal belongings and not leave valuables unattended.

By following these tips and using common sense, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience at Leleiwi Beach Park.

Wildlife

Leleiwi Beach Park is home to a variety of marine life, including sea urchins, crabs, and small fish, which can be found in the tide pools around the lava rocks. Visitors can also sometimes spot sea turtles and other sea creatures in the water. In addition to marine life, the park is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and is a great place to observe birds such as Hawaiian stilts, black-crowned night herons, and Pacific golden plovers.

What to eat

There are several options for food near Leleiwi Beach Park. The nearby town of Hilo has a variety of restaurants and cafes, including local Hawaiian cuisine, seafood, and international options. Some popular choices include Cafe Pesto, Hilo Bay Cafe, and Moon and Turtle. For a more casual dining experience, there are also several food trucks and stalls in the area that offer local snacks and meals. Additionally, the park itself has several picnic areas and barbecue grills available for visitors who prefer to bring their own food.

Nearby landmarks

Leleiwi Beach Park is located in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii. Here are the approximate distances to some nearby landmarks:

• Hilo International Airport: 5 miles (about 15 minutes by car)
• Downtown Hilo: 3 miles (about 10 minutes by car)
• Rainbow Falls: 3.5 miles (about 10 minutes by car)
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: 30 miles (about 45 minutes by car)
• Mauna Kea Summit: 55 miles (about 1.5 hours by car)

Please note that travel times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic and other factors.

Who visits

Leleiwi Beach Park is a popular destination among both locals and visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii. Tourists come to the park to enjoy the unique black sand beach and the beautiful ocean views, as well as to swim, snorkel, and explore the tide pools. The park's picnic areas and barbecue facilities also make it a great spot for families and groups to gather and enjoy a day at the beach. Additionally, the park's proximity to Hilo and other nearby attractions makes it a convenient stop for those traveling around the island. Locals also frequent the park for fishing and other outdoor activities, as well as to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

How to get there

Leleiwi Beach Park is located in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, and there are several ways to get there:

1. By car: Visitors can drive to the park and park in the designated parking lot.
2. By taxi or rideshare: Visitors can take a taxi or rideshare service to the park from their location.
3. By public transportation: The Hele-On bus system operates in Hilo and provides transportation to Leleiwi Beach Park. Visitors can check the bus schedule and plan their route to the park.

The park is located off Kalanianaole Avenue in Hilo, and the entrance is well marked. Once at the park, visitors can explore the beach and the surrounding areas on foot.

Safety considerations

While Leleiwi Beach Park is generally considered a safe destination, visitors should still take certain precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips for staying safe at the beach park:

• Swim only in designated areas: The beach can have strong currents and undertows, so it is important to swim only in the areas marked for swimming.
• Be aware of changing weather and ocean conditions: The weather and ocean conditions can change quickly in Hawaii, so it is important to pay attention to the signs and warnings posted at the park and to check the weather forecast before heading to the park.
• Wear appropriate footwear: The beach and surrounding lava rocks can be sharp and uneven, so it is recommended to wear appropriate footwear, such as water shoes or sandals.
• Stay hydrated: The weather in Hawaii can be hot and humid, so it is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Keep an eye on personal belongings: While the park is generally safe, visitors should still keep an eye on their personal belongings and not leave valuables unattended.

By following these tips and using common sense, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience at Leleiwi Beach Park.

History

Leleiwi Beach Park is situated on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, and it holds great historical significance for the Hawaiian people. The area around the beach park was once a thriving fishing and farming community, and many Hawaiians lived in the area for centuries.

In the early 20th century, however, a devastating tsunami struck the area and caused significant damage. The tsunami destroyed many homes and took the lives of several people, and it forced many of the surviving residents to relocate to other parts of the island.

After the tsunami, the land around Leleiwi Beach was used for various purposes, including sugar cane farming and military training. The beach park was eventually established in the 1970s, and it has since become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Despite its modern-day popularity, Leleiwi Beach Park remains an important site for the Hawaiian people, as it serves as a reminder of the area's rich history and cultural significance. Visitors to the park can learn more about the area's history through informational signs and displays located throughout the park.

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