If you’re planning a family-friendly trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and looking for unforgettable, hands-on nature experiences, exploring tide pools should be high on your list. These natural wonders are teeming with vibrant marine life and unique geological formations, offering both fun and educational opportunities for curious kids and adults alike. Best of all, many tide pools are located near scenic coastlines, making for a perfect day of beachcombing and exploration. Here are the top tide pool destinations on the Big Island, along with helpful tips to make your adventure both safe and sustainable.
Best Tide Pools on the Big Island
Kapoho Tide Pools (Temporarily Inaccessible)
Once the crown jewel of Big Island tide pools, the Kapoho Tide Pools were unfortunately covered by lava during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. While they no longer exist in accessible form, it’s worth mentioning them for historical significance and to remind travelers to always check local conditions before visiting any natural site.
Isaac Hale Beach Park (Pohoiki)
Located in the Puna District near the site of the previous Kapoho Tide Pools, Pohoiki offers new black sand beaches and a series of small thermal and tide pools formed after the 2018 eruption. While not the traditional tide pooling experience, the raw geological changes and baby tide pools forming in lava rock crevices make this a unique stop for families interested in Hawaii’s dynamic landscape.
Waikoloa Anchialine Ponds
These brackish water pools, located within the Waikoloa Resort area, are home to tiny red shrimp and serve as a cultural and ecological treasure. While not exactly tide pools, they are shallow and safe for kids to observe aquatic life without entering the water. Interpretive signs explain their cultural importance, and walking paths make the area stroller-friendly.
Waiʻōpae Tide Pools (Temporarily Closed)
Another previously top-rated destination also located in Puna, the Waiʻōpae Marine Life Conservation District was severely impacted by lava flows. Check with local resources or officials to see if access has been restored before planning a visit. If and when it reopens, it offers incredible snorkeling and tide pooling opportunities.
Kaʻawaloa Cove at Kealakekua Bay
Although better known as a snorkeling spot, the shoreline near the Captain Cook monument has a rocky coastline with shallow areas that can house small marine creatures. Due to limited accessibility (primarily by kayak or boat), it’s more suited to families with older kids or teens.
South Point (Ka Lae)
As the southernmost point in the U.S., South Point features rocky, rugged coastline and isolated tide pools formed in lava shelves. Explore with caution, as the area can be windy and waves are unpredictable. Great for spotting urchins, crabs, and other small sea life when the waters are calm.
What You Can Expect to See in Big Island Tide Pools
Depending on the location and tide conditions, Big Island tide pools are typically home to vibrant marine life including hermit crabs, sea urchins, brittle stars, gobies, opae ula (tiny native shrimp), sea cucumbers, and young reef fish. The volcanic rock formations around many pools offer extra educational value for kids interested in geology.
Tips for a Safe and Eco-Friendly Tide Pool Adventure
- Check the tides: Visit during low tide for easier access and clearer visibility into the pools.
- Wear proper footwear: Volcanic rocks can be sharp and slippery. Water shoes or reef-safe sandals are recommended.
- Supervise children closely: Waves and currents can be stronger than they appear, especially near unprotected coastlines.
- Observe, don’t disturb: Teach children to look but not touch, and never remove marine life from the pools.
- Leave no trace: Take all trash with you and avoid stepping on coral or fragile lifeforms.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the reef! Choose products like Coco Botanicals’ all-natural, mineral-based sunscreen, which is safe for both your family and the marine ecosystem.
Bonus: Combine Tide Pooling with Nearby Attractions
Several tide pool spots are located near other Big Island attractions, making it easy to build a well-rounded family itinerary. For example, a visit to Pohoiki can be followed by exploring the Chain of Craters Road in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Meanwhile, Waikoloa’s anchialine ponds are perfect to explore before dinner or sunset at adjacent resort dining areas.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island offers a unique mix of natural and cultural experiences, and tide pooling is a magical way to introduce children to the marvels of Hawaii’s coastal ecosystems. Just remember to go prepared, stay safe, and travel responsibly. Don’t forget to pack your reusable water bottles, sun hats, and environmentally friendly sun protection like Coco Botanicals sunscreen, so you can enjoy the tide pools while keeping Hawaii pristine for generations to come.