Carlsmith Beach Park (Four Mile): What to Do in Hilo (2023)
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Looking to explore Carlsmith Beach Park on the Big Island?
One of the things I loved about visiting the Hilo area was the number of beach parks that were available. Carlsmith Beach Park (Four Mile) was by far one of my favorites on the Big Island, and we spent a lot of time there on our Hawaii itinerary! The fact that it did feel like such a local, nice surprise was a nice break and offered an off-the-beaten path adventure.
Here’s what you need to know when you plan on visiting Carlsmith Beach Park.
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Everything you need to know about visiting Carlsmith Beach Park
Here’s what you need to know when you are planning on visiting Carlsmith Beach Park, also known as Four Mile.
Map of Carlsmith Beach Park
How to get to Carlsmith Beach Park
How to get to Carlsmith Beach ParkOnce you reach the Hilo side of the Big Island, you’ll want to journey from downtown Hilo. Make your way towards the east on Road 137 and find a spot to leave your vehicle at the seaside parking area. This entire area offers a variety of beach parks, all within a short distance. The most beloved one is Richardsons Beach Park, which boasts black sand peppered with green, but there’s no shortage of alternatives to explore.
For another beach park option close to Hilo, you might want to check out Onekahakaha Beach Park, as well.
Things to do in Carlsmith Beach Park
Things to do in Carlsmith Beach ParkThis is one of the cooler spots outside of town, and while it might not be one of the more exciting things to do in Hilo, Hawaii, it is great if you want some time to relax and enjoy the sun like a local.
Snorkeling
If you are willing to watch out for the lava rock in the beach area, this is a great place for swimming and a snorkel. In the reef, there is plenty of sea life to explore, as well as the chance to see sea turtles. You’ll have a chance to see a variety of fish and since there are restrooms and showers, you should be able to rinse off the surprisingly clear water after your adventure.
Since there are some sharp lava rocks near the shore, I recommend watching your kids just in case. The surf isn’t super strong here, but it can be a bit stronger than on some other beaches on the Big Island. Be on the lookout for a nearby lagoon where the ocean is a little quieter for a swim. There you can find a spot with sand and reef.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Snorkeling essentials”]Recommended snorkel set: Aqualung Vita Snorkeling Set 🐠
Recommended wetsuit: Roxy 2/2 mm Swell Back-Zip Short-sleeve Q-Lock Springsuit Wetsuit 🩱
Recommended towel: REI Co-op Multi Towel Lite 🌊
Recommended underwater camera: GoPro HERO10 Black 📷
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Picnic
Along with covered pavilions and picnic tables, there are several areas where you can sit and have lunch in the beautiful place. Whether you choose to eat at these spots or on the well-kept lawn, it’s a peaceful spot right by ocean to have some food before exploring some of the Hilo restaurants available.
Surfing
While the lava rocks are not the sandy beach you might expect when you think of a beach, there is a bit of surf in the area. The James Kealoha Beach Park right close by offers excellent surfing and an additional parking lot.
Enjoy with the family
This is a major family-friendly beach park and ideal for kids to visit due to al the amenities available and activities near Hilo. We saw a lot of children there and due to the large lawn, I could easily see soccer games and events at Carlsmith Beach Park.
Keep in mind that it can be a little busy during weekends and holidays, and although there is a fairly large parking lot, it can be difficult to find parking during certain times.
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Botanical gardens
Another reason to check out Carlsmith Beach Park is that is located not too far away from some world-class gardens. The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is about a 22-minute drive from Hilo and Carlsmith Beach Park, making it the ideal visit after enjoying a swim or snorkeling.
Where to stay near Carlsmith Beach Park
I recommend looking into Hilo hotels for the best options of places to stay near Carlsmith Beach Park–it’s right nearby downtown!
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⭐BEST OPTION FOR FAMILIES: HALE LEILANI⭐
⭐BEST OPTION FOR ADVENTURERS: HILO BAY OCEANFRONT BED AND BREAKFAST⭐
⭐BEST OPTION FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: THE BIG ISLAND HOSTEL⭐
⭐CONSIDER AN RV FOR YOUR TRIP: CHECK OUT RVS HERE⭐
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Conclusion: Carlsmith Beach Park
If you’re looking for a quick, easy thing to do in Hilo that the whole family will love, then you’ll want to take the time to explore Carlsmith Beach Park on your Big Island itinerary.
Have any questions about when you visit Carlsmith Beach Park? Let me know in the comments!
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