Lifeguarded beaches on Hawaiʻi Island (Big Island)

Hawaiʻi Island lifeguards are on duty daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.: in Hilo at Leleiwi, Carlsmith, Richardson Ocean Park, Onekahakaha and Honoliʻi, plus Punaluʻu; and on the Kona-Kohala side at Spencer, Hāpuna, Kahaluʻu and White Sands (Laʻaloa).

• East side (Hilo area): Leleiwi Beach Park, Carlsmith Beach Park, Richardson Ocean Park, Onekahakaha Beach Park, Honoliʻi Beach Park, plus Punaluʻu Beach Park (black sand) to the south.
• West side (Kona and Kohala): Spencer Beach Park, Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, Kahaluʻu Beach Park, White Sands (Laʻaloa) Beach Park, also called Magic Sands.
• Hours: daily 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. If no lifeguard is in the tower, call 911 in an emergency.
• Hāpuna and Kua Bay charge non-resident entry and parking fees ($5 per person, $10 per vehicle).

Sources: Hawaiʻi Department of Health: List of lifeguarded beaches in Hawaiʻi · Hawaii Beach Safety: current conditions by beach · Hawaii's Best Travel: reservations and fees 2026

Last checked Oct. 30, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.