Richardson Ocean Park is a popular and scenic family-friendly beach on the shore east of Hilo. It has a small black sand beach but mostly has an irregular lava rock shoreline with swimming areas and tide pools galore.

The park is especially popular with families due to the protected swimming areas and lifeguards who are on hand every day. Swimming and snorkeling are the biggest activities at Richardson Ocean Park.

The park itself is a picturesque spot with grass lawns surrounding natural freshwater pools. It’s a superb place to get out for a walk. If you like tidepools, continue through the park to the point and explore around the lava rock shore there.