Swim at Carlsmith Beach

A beautiful beach for swimming less than 10 minutes from downtown Hilo! Because Hilo is more rocky and jungly than the western side of the island, this beach is more of a swimming hole than a traditional beach. Carlsmith is also frequented by big turtles (like the ones in Finding Nemo!), but please don't touch them as it is against tradition in Hawaii to disturb wildlife (it may also be against the law). 

This beach is also a great spot to watch the sunset behind Mauna Kea. It can get pretty crowded and difficult to find easy parking on nice weekend days.