East Hilo beaches (Onekahakaha, Carlsmith, Richardson)

Reef-safe sunscreen only — Hawaiʻi state law bans oxybenzone and octinoxate. Sea turtles routinely haul out at Carlsmith and Richardson; stay ten feet back, do not touch, do not feed. Lifeguards are posted during posted hours; check before swimming. Pack out trash beyond what fits in park bins. The east Hilo beaches have occasional incidents with car break-ins; do not leave valuables in your vehicle. Strong rain in the upper watershed makes the water murky for a day or two afterward; check conditions before snorkeling.