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Located just 3 miles from the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort, protected in small Waiuli Bay, Richardson Beach may be the most famous and best snorkeling and swimming beach in East Hawaii. One of the best snorkeling beaches in Hawaii, the natural and unspoiled. Richardson Beach is a paradise of black sand, beautiful coral, colorful reef fish and spectacular views of Mauna Kea and the deep blue Pacific. Expect to swim surrounded by colorful fish and don’t be surprised if you come face to face with an endangered sea turtle. The brightly colored Butterfly fish, inflatable Puffer, shining blue and red color Uhu (Parrotfish), and the long thread-shaped Trumpet fish can be found everywhere in the small bay. Schools of dolphins are often seen frolicking off shore and during the winter humpback whales can be sighted swimming offshore from October to April. The surf breaks off shore provide waves for experts as well as novice body boarders and surfers.  This protected black sand beach is a favorite of local residents and visitors and offers restrooms, showers, picnic benches and a county lifeguard 7 days a week.

Best for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, Kayaking, fishing and bodyboarding.