Snorkel· Hawaii (Big Island)· Hawaii
Richardson Ocean Park
19° 44.2′ N · 155° 0.8′ W
Hilo's favorite snorkel: a little black-sand beach, lava-rock coves and tide pools at the east end of Keaukaha, with reef fish and green sea turtles in calm, protected water.
Practical
Coordinate from to-hawaii's map. Also called Richardson Ocean Center (the old Richardson home is now the county ocean center). Best in summer; lava seawalls make natural pools. Cold freshwater springs seep in along this coast. Surf breaks offshore - beginners stay inside. Keep your distance from turtles: do not touch or chase them. By road from Hilo along Kalanianaole Avenue; too far to dinghy comfortably from the breakwater anchorage.
Best for
Easy turtle snorkel near Hilo
Season
Best in calm summer conditions