Richardson Ocean Park

Richardson Ocean Park is a family-friendly beach park and picnic area at the end of Kalanianaole Street in the Hilo area.

The shore at Richardson's is the nearest black sand beach to Hilo, though the sand also has a mix of olivine, a green mineral that gives the island's green sand beaches their appearance. This location is very family-friendly, having cool fresh water ponds fed by springs, picnic tables, sandy beach area, rocks for exploring, and a large mostly-protected cove that has mostly calm water and is watched over by lifeguards. The conditions - clear fresh water and calm surfaces - makes this beach very popular for snorkeling. The spring water is much cooler than the ocean water, so Richardson, along with most beaches nearby Hilo, are cooler in temperature than Kona area beaches.

Lush landscaping is laid out throughout the park area. As part of a marine conservation area, green sea turtles frequent the area and can often be seen around the rocks feeding.

The park contains showers, bathrooms, tables, and trash cans. 

Richardson Ocean Park can get very crowded, particularly at the height of the day and on weekends. The parking is relatively limited in a small lot. There is additional parking at the neighboring beach parks, however if visiting on the weekend, visitors should plan on arriving here early to find a spot.

The park is open daily with lifeguards on duty from 7am to 7pm. There is no cost to visit the park.