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BIG ISLAND · WATER QUALITY GUIDE · 2026

Beaches Near Hilo

Hilo, Big Island — ranked by water quality and bacteria risk

Drive times and water quality risk levels for beaches near Hilo, Big Island. Risk ratings are based on long-term DOH bacteria testing data and geography. Always check current Big Island advisories before swimming — conditions change after rain.
Nearby Beaches — Ranked by Proximity
Richardson Beach Moderate ●
Black sand, tide pools, turtles
5 min
Southeast
Carlsmith Beach Moderate ●
Calm snorkeling, spring-fed
5 min
Southeast
Onekahakaha Beach Moderate ●
Protected pool, great for kids
5 min
East
Honoliʻi Beach Moderate ●
Local surf spot, river mouth
5 min
North
Kolekole Beach Moderate ●
Under a bridge, waterfall, stream mouth
20 min
North
If Brown Water Is Active

After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Hilo, Big Island:

  • Wait 72 hours after rain stops before entering the water
  • Avoid brown or murky water regardless of whether an advisory is posted
  • Best rain-resistant option: Richardson Beach (Southeast) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
  • Check the Big Island live advisories page for current conditions
Book Tours & Activities

Top-rated experiences near Hilo, Big Island. Check water quality above, then plan your trip.

Tours Near Hilo, Big Island
Snorkeling, surf lessons, island tours & more
Viator
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Free alerts when water quality changes on Big Island — brown water advisories and bacteria warnings.

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⚠️ Important Disclaimer

Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.

Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.

When in doubt, don’t go out. 🤙

© 2026 Safe to Swim Hawaii · Independent passion project · safetoswimhawaii@gmail.com