James Kealoha Beach Park at a Glance
Named in 1963 after the first elected lieutenant governor of the state of Hawaii, James Kealoha Beach Park is also known as “4 Miles” among local residents – not because of its length, but because it is exactly 4 miles (6.4 km) from the Hilo Post Office, the main starting point for mileage markers in the area.
When it comes to beach activities, this park offers the whole package: nice views, watersports, sunbathing and even a few good fishing spots. This makes James Kealoha Beach Park a convenient weekend stop for local families and visitors alike. But despite its popularity, the park never seems crowded since there’s a lot of open space.
Popular water activities at Kealoha include swimming, snorkeling, surfing, pole fishing and spearfishing. The central and western areas of the bay open up to the deeper offshore waters, so during times of high surf, a strong rip current runs seaward in this area. The surfing spot located here is aptly named “4 Miles.”
The eastern end of the bay is more sheltered, and families with children prefer this area. There is a large, ponded swimming area that contains a few inlets and pockets of white sand. Behind the beach are trees that provide shade for picnickers. A picnic pavilion is also available. This area once belonged to the Carlsmith family, so sometimes the park is referred to as Carlsmith Park.
Located offshore is Scout Island. On most maps it is referred to as Mahikea Island, yet, a few others claim its correct Hawaiian name is Peiwe. The island was hit by the tsunami in 1946, which shortened it on its seaward end. It used to be a popular summer camping site among the residents of Keaukaha, as well as a destination for the Big Island boy scouts (hence its English name “Scout Island”). The Hawaiian name Peiwe refers to drupe shells, whose snails were commonly eaten and are found throughout the Hawaiian Islands in shallow, rocky areas.
James Kealoha Beach Park in Bullet Points
- Located four miles south of Hilo
- Nice beach park that offers many watersports activities
- Good spot for picnicking with plenty of shade
James Kealoha Beach Park Facilities
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- Restrooms
- Picnic pavilion
- Parking
- Lifeguard
James Kealoha Beach Park Water Activities
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Surfing
- Fishing
James Kealoha Beach Park Driving Directions / Location
From downtown Hilo, drive south on Kalanianaole Ave. After four miles, the beach park will be on your left.
Address: Kalanianaole Ave., Hilo, Hawaii 96720
James Kealoha Beach Park Map (top)
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James Kealoha Beach Park Weather
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Now
75°F
Windchill:
75°F
Cloudy
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Location: Hilo, HI, US
Wind: 7 mph N
Humidity: 66%
Visibility: 0.1 mi
Pressure: 30.02 in rising
Sunrise: 6:29 am
Sunset: 6:29 pm
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Sun
Hi: 77°F
Low: 65°F
Showers
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Mon
Hi: 76°F
Low: 65°F
Showers
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James Kealoha Beach Park Photos (click to enlarge)
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James Kealoha Beach Park Reviews and Comments
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Safety Tip
Whatever beach in Hawaii you visit, please have in mind that the ocean can
be very dangerous. Never turn your back against the waves and watch out for underwater
currents and always check the surf conditions. Pay attention to signs posted on
the beach. If you are not sure about the conditions, ask the lifeguards (if any
on the beach). Please
click here to
read more about ocean safety in Hawaii.
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