History & Navigation
The remarkable story behind Hilo's premier family beach and your guide to getting there
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani MillerFrom Private Land to Public Haven
The transformation of this coastline into the beloved park we know today began in the early 1930s, during a time when Hawaii was recognizing the need for more public recreational spaces. Hawaii County designated the first 13 acres as a beach park in 1930, marking the beginning of what would become one of Hilo's most treasured community assets.
The initial 20-plus acres were officially established by executive order in 1931, during a period of significant growth and development in the Hilo area. This wasn't just about setting aside land. It was about creating a space where families could gather safely and where children could learn to love the ocean without fear.
Over the years, additional state lands were incorporated into the park through various acquisitions and donations. The park now spans nearly 34 acres, making it one of the larger beach parks in the Hilo area. Each expansion was carefully planned to maintain the park's family-friendly character while providing more space for the growing community to enjoy.
Engineered for ʻOhana
The defining feature of Onekahakaha is its remarkable safety and family-friendly design. This isn't an accident of nature or a lucky geological formation. It's the result of decades of deliberate and significant engineering, guided by a community vision of what a perfect family beach should be.
Historical records from as early as 1974 detail how the park was intentionally shaped to become a sanctuary for Hilo's families. The engineering was extensive and transformative. Workers constructed massive protective sea walls and a large breakwater to shield swimmers from Hilo Bay's powerful waves and dangerous currents.
🌊 Protective Sea Walls
Massive breakwaters shield swimmers from Hilo Bay's powerful waves and dangerous currents, creating a calm lagoon environment.
🏖️ Imported Sand
Tons of soft sand were imported to create the gentle, sandy-bottomed lagoon that serves as the park's centerpiece swimming area.
🐠 Dredged Tide Pools
Workers carefully dredged tidal pools to create ideal depths for both safety and marine life habitat preservation.
🌾 Filled Swampland
The transformation involved filling in natural swamps that had made the area less suitable for recreation.
In a delightful historical note, the park's dedication to children once included a temporary children's zoo, established in 1969. This mini zoo became a popular local attraction, drawing over 130,000 visitors in 1970 before being relocated to its permanent, larger home at the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo.
ℹ️ Historical Facts
- Established: 1930-1931
- Original Size: 13 acres
- Current Size: 34 acres
- Former Name: Machida Beach
- Children's Zoo: 1969-1970
🗺️ Explore This Guide
🚗 Getting There
- 3 miles from downtown Hilo
- 10-minute drive from city center
- Take Kalanianaʻole Ave south
- Turn makai on Onekahakaha Rd
🅿️ Kalani's Parking Strategy
Main Lot (61 cars)
Best for families & gear
North Lot (18 cars)
Near tide pools
Overflow (100 cars)
Busy weekends
Navigating the Park Like a Local – A Practical Guide
Getting to and around Onekahakaha is straightforward, but knowing a few local tricks can make your visit much smoother, especially when you're juggling kids, coolers, snorkel gear, and all the other essentials for a perfect beach day.
Getting There & Hours
Onekahakaha Beach Park sits conveniently in South Hilo, just 3 miles from the downtown area. That's about a 10-minute drive from the city center and east of Hilo International Airport. The location makes it easily accessible whether you're staying in downtown Hilo or coming from other parts of the Big Island.
From downtown Hilo, take Kalanianaʻole Avenue south and turn makai (toward the sea) on Onekahakaha Road. The road leads directly to the park, and you'll see the ocean and park facilities as you approach. The drive itself is scenic, giving you glimpses of Hilo Bay and the surrounding coastline.
The park is open daily from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, giving you plenty of flexibility for your visit. Early morning visits offer the calmest conditions and the best chance to see marine life in the tide pools. Evening visits can be magical too, especially for watching the sunset over Hilo Bay.
Accessibility for All – A Key Differentiator
One of Onekahakaha's most remarkable and often under-reported features is its exceptional accessibility, making it genuinely welcoming for visitors with mobility challenges. While many Hawaii beaches present significant obstacles for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids, Onekahakaha was designed with true inclusivity in mind.
ADA Walkways
Well-maintained, paved walkways connect all parking areas to facilities and shoreline without sand navigation.
Accessible Restrooms
Fully accessible facilities with proper door widths, grab bars, and turning space for wheelchairs.
Water Access Ramp
Wide cement ramp leads directly into the water - one of the best accessibility features on the Big Island.
This level of accessibility isn't common at Hawaii beaches, making Onekahakaha a truly special destination for families and individuals who might otherwise struggle to enjoy ocean activities. It represents the community's commitment to ensuring that everyone can experience the joy and healing power of the ocean.
