What to know before you go
Large east swells create surge and dangerous entry/exit conditions
Calmer conditions, good for snorkeling, sea turtles frequent the area
| Lifeguards | No |
| Nearest Hospital | Hilo Medical Center (3 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Good |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Reef shoes are essential. The lava rock entry is sharp and slippery. Stay away from the east point where currents are strong.
After heavy rain, bacteria and pollutants from runoff contaminate coastal waters. Wait at least 72 hours after heavy rain and until the water clears before entering. This applies to Richardson Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Rocky entry over lava rock. Strong currents on east side. Sea urchins in tide pools. Bacteria after heavy rain from Wailoa River.
No. Nearest hospital: Hilo Medical Center (3 mi). Cell phone coverage: Good.
Winter: Large east swells create surge and dangerous entry/exit conditions. Summer: Calmer conditions, good for snorkeling, sea turtles frequent the area
Reef shoes are essential. The lava rock entry is sharp and slippery. Stay away from the east point where currents are strong.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — it is not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health, any entity mentioned on this page, or any government agency or hotel brand. Water quality ratings on this site 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 Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water. This site is for informational purposes only and should not be the sole basis for any swimming decisions.
When in doubt, donʻt go out. 🤙