Why Hawaii's Hilo Is Ideal For A Family-Friendly Beach Vacation
By Sharon Kong Perring
VACATIONS
Hilo may be Hawaii's most underrated, crowd-free city, and the area’s Carlsmith Beach Park is a paradise, perfect for visiting families but sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors.
Carlsmith is particularly appealing to beginner swimmers. The lagoons are protected by a reef so the surf never gets too rough, and the pools are lined with soft white sand.
The park’s trademark lawn area has covered pavilions and barbecues. There are also full restroom facilities with showers, and the beach is one of the most accessible in the state.
The beach is full of fauna, and naturalists will love birdwatching from the sands. Green Hawaiian sea turtles hang out in the lagoons, and they'll even swim up to snorkelers.