Onekahakaha Beach Park
The Perfect Family Beach Parks
Onekahakaha Beach Park is located in the Hilo district, just 3 miles from downtown Hilo, and about 10 minutes east of Hilo airport. Our favorite part is that it’s a 2-mile drive along the coast, which makes it a perfect first stop after you and your family hop into your Big Island rental car. Getting to Onekahakaha Beach Park is a short trip down Kamehameha Avenue to Kalanianaole Street, a quick turn down Onekahakaha Road, and you’re almost there. Just before you reach the parking lot at Onekahakaha Beach Park, you’ll notice a street named Machida Lane. This street was named in memory of the area’s early 20th-century founder. Your phone GPS may label the area as “Machida Beach”—this is the same place as Onekahakaha.
What You’ll Find
When you get to Onekahakaha Beach Park, you’ll notice that it’s not the sort of wide, hotel-lined beach like Waikiki. Onekahakaha is famous for its breakwater-protected, shallow “ocean pond” complete with a white sand bottom. This area is one of the safest spots to swim and snorkel along this part of the Hawaiʻi coastline, which makes it popular for families with small children.
Upon parking at Onekahakaha Beach Park, you will find ample amenities including picnic areas, firepits, playgrounds, showers, restrooms, and a cement ramp leading into the water, making this park accessible for everyone. There are also lifeguards on duty. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to get to Onekahakaha Beach Park between January and March, you can whale watch with your family!
Even though parking at Onekahakaha Beach Park is plentiful, it can get crowded with both locals and visitors during peak seasons, so aim to arrive early in the day if you can.
Use Caution!
This section of the Hawaiʻi coastline can be treacherous, but the southern ocean pond is boulder protected, which makes it safe for children and families. Be careful if you venture beyond that, however. You will find other ocean ponds when you get to Onekahakaha Beach Park which may be appealing to fishermen and waders, but be aware of the deeper water and strong rip currents. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll definitely want to stay in the guarded shallow pool. Even adults should be careful entering the water in other areas.
How to Get to Onekahakaha Beach Park
If you are in the heart of Hilo, you can get to Onekahakaha Beach Park in just a few turns. Once you’re on Kamehameha Avenue, you will continue for about 2 miles. You will then turn right onto Kalaniana’ole Street, and in about 1 mile you will turn left onto Onekahakaha Road. From there, parking for Onekahakaha Beach Park is just ahead!
If you want to know how to get to Onekahakaha Beach Park even faster, rent your car with GoVibe. Our concierge experience means we bring your car to you so you can get on the road and go. Skip the line at the airport and find vehicles for up to 25% less than competitor rentals. We’re a local Hawaiʻi-based company happy to answer your questions. Call us or manage your booking online. Select from premium vehicles with free cancellation up to 24 hours before you arrive. We’ll see you here soon!
