A complete guide
Richardson Ocean Park
Big Island

Richardson Ocean Park is a popular beach park located on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is known for its black sand beach, which is a result of volcanic activity in the area, and offers great opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. The park also has picnic tables, showers, and restrooms for visitors to use. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery and marine life of the Hawaiian islands.

In addition to its black sand beach, Richardson Ocean Park is also known for its scenic ocean views and calm waters, which make it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful tropical fish and green sea turtles. Visitors can also see underwater lava formations and, on clear days, the neighboring islands of Maui and Molokai.

The park is located near the city of Hilo and is easily accessible by car. There is a small parking lot available for visitors, and the park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and can get busy on weekends and holidays.

Overall, Richardson Ocean Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii who is looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and experience the unique black sand beaches of the Hawaiian islands.

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 a small parking lot available for visitors at Richardson Ocean Park. The parking lot is located near the entrance to the park and is open every day from sunrise to sunset. There is a fee to park at the lot, and the cost may vary depending on the time of year and the specific parking arrangements. It is recommended to check with the park for the latest information on parking fees and availability.

Visitors to the park can also park along the road near the park, but be mindful of any parking restrictions or regulations that may be in place. If you are planning to visit Richardson Ocean Park during a busy time of year, it is a good idea to arrive early to ensure that you are able to find a parking spot.

Popular activities

There are a variety of popular activities for visitors to enjoy at Richardson Ocean Park. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Swimming and snorkeling - The calm waters of the bay and the abundance of marine life make Richardson Ocean Park a popular destination for those looking to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the underwater world.
• Beach activities - The park is a popular spot for those looking to relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenic ocean views. Visitors can also engage in beach activities such as sunbathing, picnicking, and playing beach games.
• Wildlife viewing - Richardson Ocean Park is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including green sea turtles, tropical fish, and coastal birds, making it a popular destination for those interested in observing and learning about wildlife.
• Hiking - The park offers several short hiking trails that offer scenic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
• Picnicking - The park has several picnic areas that offer scenic views of the ocean, making it a popular destination for families and groups looking to spend time outdoors and enjoy a meal together.

Overall, visitors to Richardson Ocean Park have a variety of activities to choose from, and can enjoy the park's natural beauty, its black sand beach, and its opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and observation of marine wildlife.

Wildlife

Richardson Ocean Park is a great place to observe a variety of marine wildlife. The calm waters of the bay provide a habitat for a range of tropical fish species, including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. Snorkelers can also spot colorful coral formations, including species of brain coral, staghorn coral, and lettuce coral.

One of the most famous inhabitants of Richardson Ocean Park is the green sea turtle, which is often seen basking on the black sand beach or swimming in the shallow waters. These turtles are protected under state and federal law, and visitors are encouraged to observe them from a safe distance to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

In addition to marine life, the park is also home to a variety of coastal birds, including terns, frigatebirds, and boobies. These birds can often be seen soaring above the ocean or perched on the rocks along the shoreline.

Overall, Richardson Ocean Park is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts who are interested in observing the unique marine life and coastal birds of Hawaii.

What to eat

If you're looking for food options near Richardson Ocean Park, there are several options available in the nearby city of Hilo. Some popular places to grab a bite to eat include:

1. Ken's House of Pancakes - A long-time local favorite known for its generous portions and delicious breakfast dishes.
2. Cafe 100 - A casual spot specializing in Hawaiian plate lunches, including favorites like teriyaki beef, kalua pork, and loco moco.
3. Island Naturals Market & Deli - A health food store with a café that serves organic and locally-sourced breakfast and lunch options, including sandwiches, salads, and smoothies.
4. Umami Cafe - A cozy café that serves a variety of fusion dishes, including poke bowls, burritos, and sushi rolls.

These are just a few options, and there are many other restaurants and cafes in the area to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options available to satisfy your cravings after a day at the beach.

Nearby landmarks

The distance to different landmarks can vary depending on the specific route taken and the mode of transportation used. However, here is an estimate of the distance from Richardson Ocean Park to a few popular landmarks in the area:

• Hilo International Airport: Approx. 9 miles (14 km)
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Approx. 31 miles (50 km)
• Mauna Kea Summit: Approx. 46 miles (74 km)

Please note that these are rough estimates and the actual distances may vary. If you need more accurate distances, I would recommend using a mapping website or app to get up-to-date information.

Who visits

Richardson Ocean Park is a popular destination for a variety of visitors, including:

1. Tourists - Many visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii come to see the unique black sand beaches, and Richardson Ocean Park is a popular destination for those looking to experience this natural wonder.
2. Snorkelers and swimmers - The calm waters of the bay and the abundance of marine life make Richardson Ocean Park a popular destination for those looking to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the underwater world.
3. Beachgoers - The park is a popular spot for those looking to relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenic ocean views.
4. Locals - Richardson Ocean Park is a popular destination for residents of the Big Island, who come to enjoy the park's facilities, picnic areas, and scenic views.
5. Wildlife enthusiasts - The park is home to a variety of marine life, including green sea turtles, tropical fish, and coastal birds, making it a popular destination for those interested in observing and learning about wildlife.

Overall, visitors come to Richardson Ocean Park for a variety of reasons, but most are drawn to the park's natural beauty, its black sand beach, and its opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and observation of marine wildlife.

How to get there

Getting to Richardson Ocean Park is relatively easy and can be done by car or by public transportation.

By car: From Hilo, head south on Highway 11 towards Pahoa. Turn left on Kahakai Boulevard and follow the road for about 3 miles. Turn right on Kahakai Road and follow the road to the park.

By public transportation: Take a bus from Hilo to Pahoa using the Hele-On bus service. Get off at the Kahakai Boulevard stop and walk approximately 1 mile to the park.

Note that the public transportation option may be less convenient and may involve a longer walk to the park, so if you have access to a car, it may be the best option for getting to Richardson Ocean Park.

Once you arrive at the park, there is a small parking lot available for visitors, and the park is open every day from sunrise to sunset.

Safety considerations

Richardson Ocean Park is generally considered a safe destination for visitors, but it is important to take some basic safety precautions while enjoying the park and its facilities. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Be mindful of the ocean - While the waters of the bay are generally calm, it is important to be aware of the ocean's conditions and any potential hazards, such as strong currents or high surf. Never swim alone, and be sure to follow any posted safety signs or instructions from lifeguards.
2. Respect wildlife - Richardson Ocean Park is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including green sea turtles and various species of fish and birds. It is important to observe these animals from a safe distance and to not disturb them in any way.
3. Protect yourself from the sun - The strong sun in Hawaii can be dangerous, especially for those who are not used to it. Be sure to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and take breaks from the sun when needed.
4. Watch your belongings - As with any public place, it is important to be mindful of your belongings and to keep them secure while at the park.

By following these basic safety tips, visitors to Richardson Ocean Park can enjoy a safe and memorable experience at this beautiful park and beach.

History

The history of Richardson Ocean Park dates back to the early 20th century, when the land was used for a variety of purposes, including agriculture and grazing for cattle. In the 1960s, the land was acquired by the state of Hawaii and was later developed into the park that exists today.

Throughout the years, Richardson Ocean Park has undergone several changes and improvements to enhance the park's facilities and infrastructure, and to provide visitors with a safe and enjoyable experience. Today, the park is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Hawaii's Big Island and to engage in a variety of outdoor activities.

In recent years, there has also been increased focus on preserving the park's natural resources and wildlife, and on educating visitors about the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism practices. As a result, Richardson Ocean Park is now recognized as an important destination for those looking to experience the beauty and diversity of Hawaii's natural environment, and to learn about the area's unique history and cultural heritage.

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