Onekahakaha Beach ParkThe Big Island's Swimming PoolTucked away along the enchanting east side of Ha ....

Onekahakaha Beach Park

The Big Island's Swimming Pool

Tucked away along the enchanting east side of Hawaii's Big Island in the picturesque Hilo district, you'll discover a series of beach parks renowned for their tranquil swimming areas and captivating tide pools. Among these coastal gems lies Onekahakaha Beach Park, an extraordinary recreational haven located less than one mile northeast of Carlsmith Beach Park and a mere three miles south of downtown Hilo.

The name "Onekahakaha" is steeped in Hawaiian heritage, signifying "drawing pictures sand." The area was transformed into a 13-acre beach park in 1930 by Hawaii County. Before this transformation, it was known as Machida Beach, named after its owner, Tomozo Machida. To this day, the road leading to the parking area retains his name as a testament to the park's history.

Onekahakaha Beach Park offers an ideal setting for families, boasting a spacious, shallow, white-sand bottomed pool enclosed by a protective lava rock seawall. The park features designated pavilion picnic areas, restroom facilities, ample parking, and refreshing showers. This delightful space provides plenty of room to spread out, ensuring a relaxing day in paradise. You'll also find Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles frequenting the area, either lounging in the shallows or indulging in the pool's bounty.

The gentle, sheltered waters and shallow pool make Onekahakaha Beach Park perfect for families seeking a day of sun and surf with numerous amenities, along with the vigilant presence of a lifeguard. Due to its family-friendly allure, the park may get crowded during peak hours, weekends, and holidays, so consider arriving early to secure an ideal spot, or opt for a quieter visit on a weekday.

North of the primary pond, you'll encounter a secondary large pond and additional tide pools, offering deeper and rockier sections, complete with sea urchins. Exercise caution while navigating this area to avoid injury. Be aware that this region can experience challenging tides and persistent rip currents, making it unsuitable for children and even caution-worthy for adults. The park maintains lifeguards year-round; however, during periods of high surf, the offshore currents beyond Onekahakaha Beach's protective breakwater become treacherous.

Onekahakaha Beach Park not only provides white sandy shores but also offers picnic tables, restroom facilities, and the constant watchful eye of a dedicated lifeguard. As it's a beloved local spot, weekdays often offer a more serene visit. To reach this coastal haven, follow King Kamehameha Road, passing Banyan Drive until you reach Kanoelehua Street. Continue along Kalaniana'ole Street, tracing the coastline for approximately four miles. Turn makai (toward the beach), park, and follow the lot to the right, where your Onekahakaha Beach Park adventure begins.